The Big Money Making a Big Difference
In a world historically fascinated by the accumulation of wealth, there's an unequivocal shift in why most of us would admire some of the highest earners on the planet today.
The greatest inspiration comes not from how those at the top created their wealth, but rather in how they are using it to create a better world for everyone. Seeing individuals who have reached the pinnacle of financial success dedicate significant portions of their fortunes to making a positive impact, is a powerful reminder of the greater purpose of success.
Have a read below about five billionaires, known for both their business acumen and their philanthropy, who are a powerful example of giving back and shaping a better future for others.
Bill Gates (Net Worth: ~$118 Billion USD)
Through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates are estimated to give back billions of dollars annually. While the exact figure fluctuates, their foundation's annual grantmaking has often exceeded $6 billion USD in recent years, making them one of the largest and most impactful philanthropic organisations globally. Their primary focus on global health, poverty alleviation, and education has led to significant advancements in combating diseases, improving agricultural practices, and increasing access to learning opportunities for millions worldwide.
Joining forces with Warren Buffet, they also founded The Giving Pledge, which invites the world’s wealthiest individuals and families to publicly commit to giving away at least 50% of their wealth to philanthropy, either during their lifetimes or in their wills.
“I believe that people who are financially successful have a responsibility to give back to society.” — Bill Gates
Warren Buffett (Net Worth: ~$128 Billion USD)
Warren Buffett's annual giving is primarily directed through his contributions to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other charitable organisations. While the exact yearly amount varies depending on the value of Berkshire Hathaway stock he donates, it consistently reaches several billion dollars USD. His pledge to give away the vast majority of his fortune, along with his ongoing significant annual contributions, places him among the top givers globally, emphasising his belief in deploying wealth for societal benefit.
"If you're in the luckiest one per cent of humanity, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think about the other 99 per cent." — Warren Buffett
MacKenzie Scott (Net Worth: ~$37 Billion USD)
MacKenzie Scott has rapidly become one of the most prolific and impactful philanthropists, having donated billions of dollars since her divorce. While her giving is more recent and less structured through a traditional foundation, estimates suggest her annual donations have reached several billion USD in the past few years. Her unique, trust-based approach, focused on rapidly deploying funds to organizations addressing critical social issues like racial and gender equity, sets her apart in the philanthropic landscape.
“There's no question in my mind that anyone's personal wealth is the product of a collective effort, and of social structures which present opportunities to some people, and obstacles to countless others.” — MacKenzie Scott
Michael Bloomberg (Net Worth: ~$96 Billion USD)
MacKenzie Scott has rapidly become one of the most prolific and impactful philanthropists, having donated billions of dollars since her divorce. While her giving is more recent and less structured through a traditional foundation, estimates suggest her annual donations have reached several billion USD in the past few years. Her unique, trust-based approach, focused on rapidly deploying funds to organizations addressing critical social issues like racial and gender equity, sets her apart in the philanthropic landscape.
“There's no question in my mind that anyone's personal wealth is the product of a collective effort, and of social structures which present opportunities to some people, and obstacles to countless others.” — MacKenzie Scott
Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest (Net Worth: ~$17 Billion AUD - ~$11 Billion USD Equivalent)
Andrew and Nicola Forrest's Minderoo Foundation engages in significant philanthropic activities, with their annual giving estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of Australian dollars. Their focus areas include combating modern slavery, supporting cancer research, improving mental health, and fostering early childhood education, reflecting a deep commitment to addressing critical social and health challenges both in Australia and internationally.
"I really do think I can make a contribution in helping eliminate the disparity here in Australia and doing my small bit to help eliminate slavery around the world." — Andrew Forrest
Inspired by these stories? To further your own wealth building, check out the SR Australia Events page.
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