Philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott announced on March 5, 2025, that she has donated $7.1 billion to various nonprofits, increasing her total contributions since 2019 to $26.3 billion. This latest round of funding emphasizes education, particularly for historically Black colleges and universities, and climate initiatives.
Scott, who gained recognition for her substantial charitable commitments following her divorce from Jeff Bezos, has consistently opted for an unrestricted funding model. Unlike many philanthropists, she does not require organizations to apply for funding or provide progress reports. This approach allows recipients significant freedom to allocate the funds according to their most pressing needs.
Support for Education and Climate Initiatives
The 2025 donations reflect Scott’s growing focus on educational institutions and climate change organizations. Notably, she allocated $90 million to the nonprofit Forests, People, Climate, which aims to halt tropical deforestation. Additionally, over $783 million was designated for historically Black colleges and universities, with notable contributions to tribal colleges and community colleges.
According to research conducted by Panorama Global, Scott’s environmental donations have historically made up a smaller portion of her overall giving. In 2024, only 9.4% of her contributions were directed towards environmental causes. However, this year marks a significant shift, as she also prioritizes education, particularly initiatives supporting higher education.
Strategic Funding for Lasting Impact
Scott has shown a willingness to reinvest in organizations that demonstrate effective leadership and community involvement. For example, the nonprofit CAMFED, which focuses on girls’ education in African nations, has received four gifts from Scott, culminating in a $60 million donation this year.
Experts note that Scott’s unrestricted grants empower organizations to innovate and adapt. The Center for Effective Philanthropy indicated that concerns surrounding the misuse of funds have largely not materialized, as Scott’s team conducts thorough research before selecting recipients. This funding strategy has proven beneficial for nonprofits facing external challenges, such as the funding cuts from the U.S. Agency for International Development during the previous administration.
Scott’s approach also emphasizes a low-profile giving style. More than a third of the 2025 recipients opted not to disclose the amounts received, aligning with her philosophy of prioritizing the organizations’ missions over her personal narrative. As Gabrielle Fitzgerald, founder of Panorama Global, noted, “She’s very interested in institutions that are rooted in community.”
Overall, MacKenzie Scott’s latest contributions illustrate her commitment to addressing urgent social issues through significant financial support, with a notable focus on education and environmental sustainability. As her charitable initiatives evolve, they continue to impact a wide range of communities and organizations, underscoring her role as a transformative figure in modern philanthropy.