MacKenzie Scott, the ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has been recognized by Forbes as the world's most generous philanthropist, having donated more than any other individual globally since 2012. Scott, who sold more than half of her Amazon stake following her divorce, signed the Giving Pledge in May 2019, committing to give away her fortune. In her pledge letter, she drew inspiration from Annie Dillard's The Writing Life, applying the advice to 'spend it now' to her wealth rather than hoarding it. Unlike many wealthy donors who establish large foundations with strict requirements, Scott adopted a different approach centered on speed, trust, and flexibility.
Support for HBCUs and Toni Morrison Legacy
According to a report by Fortune, Scott has directed significant donations toward Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with contributions surpassing $1 billion. In 2022, she gave $3 million to Howard University to establish the Toni Morrison Endowed Chair in Arts and Humanities, honoring her former mentor and thesis advisor at Princeton. Morrison, who called Scott 'one of the best students I've ever had,' played a pivotal role in her literary and professional journey.
MacKenzie Scott Donated $26 Billion
According to a report by Fortune, Scott has given away more than $26 billion across 2,700 gifts through her philanthropic organization, Yield Giving. The year 2025 was her biggest year of donations, with Scott donating $7.2 billion — more than both Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos have given in their lifetimes, as per Forbes. This year, Scott also received the title of the third-most generous philanthropist globally, having already given away 46% of her net worth.
Scott Believes in Trust-Based Philanthropy
As per the Fortune report, Scott's style of giving is unconventional. She writes unrestricted checks with no applications, progress reports, or publicity requirements. Philanthropy experts describe her approach as trust-based giving, empowering institutions to use funds freely. 'She practices trust-based philanthropy,' said Anne Marie Dougherty, CEO of the Bob Woodruff Foundation.
Scott's Net Worth Remains Above $36 Billion
Despite her massive donations, Scott's net worth remains above $36 billion, buoyed by Amazon's stock performance. In her Giving Pledge letter, she promised to keep giving until 'the safe is empty.' 'My approach to philanthropy will continue to be thoughtful. It will take time and effort and care. But I won't wait. And I will keep at it until the safe is empty,' she wrote.
