
Billionaire MacKenzie Scott Donates $640 Million to Nonprofits Through Open Call Initiative
Billionaire MacKenzie Scott donates $640 million to 361 nonprofit organizations through open call, focusing on reducing disparities and committing majority of her wealth to society.

Philanthropist and Amazon co-founder MacKenzie Scott has made a significant contribution to nonprofit organizations, announcing a donation of $640 million from her fortune.
New Approach to Donations
In a change from her previous approach, Scott set up an open call for nonprofits to apply directly for a gift through her organization, Yield Giving. This move deviated from the "quiet research" method that her organization had traditionally utilized.
Recipient Selection and Grant Allocation
Over 6,000 organizations applied for the open call, from which 361 were selected as awardees. These organizations, hailing from 38 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, were chosen for their work in advancing the voices and opportunities of individuals and families of meager or modest means and groups who have faced discrimination and other systemic obstacles.
Originally planning to grant $1 million to 250 organizations, Yield Giving expanded the awardee pool due to the high-quality applications received. Ultimately, 279 organizations received $2 million each, while 82 others were given $1 million each.
Impact of the Donations
The organizations receiving donations are working to reduce disparities in economic outcomes, education, health and other critical issues within their communities. Scott's contributions are aimed at fostering positive change in these areas.
Background and Commitment to Giving
Scott, whose net worth is approximately $35 billion, became one of the world's foremost female philanthropists after receiving a 4% stake in Amazon following her divorce from Jeff Bezos in 2019. Inspired by the ways people support each other, she pledged the majority of her wealth to society through the Giving Pledge in the same year.
Previous Donations and Focus Areas
Last year, Scott donated over $2 billion to 360 organizations. Her donations have historically supported causes related to education, the arts, public health, and diversity. A few recipients of the recent open call include ACLU of Alabama, Black Girl Ventures, GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders, and Ser Familia.
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