MacKenzie Scott’s approach to climate philanthropy has been anything but predictable. Over the years, her donations have varied widely, with significant funding coming in waves.
In 2020, Scott made major donations to select international nonprofits. Two years later, she began supporting numerous grassroots organizations focused on climate justice. Recently, she has also distributed smaller grants to local climate groups through an open call and larger sums to winners of The Audacious Project.
Her impact is substantial. This year, Scott allocated a staggering $7.1 billion in donations. Analysts suggest that at least $1 billion of that was dedicated to environmental causes. However, many organizations have not yet disclosed their exact funding amounts, indicating the total could actually be nearly double that.
Scott’s focus remains on regrantors—organizations that fund multiple initiatives—and groups dedicated to climate justice. A big part of her giving strategy seems to be supporting collaborative efforts rather than traditional large nonprofits. This year, she also took a new approach, awarding funds for innovative areas like the decarbonization of industries and resistance to fossil fuel infrastructure.
For instance, the ClimateWorks Foundation received $60 million for its Drive Electric campaign, nearly double what it received just two years ago. Similarly, Canadian group Makeway saw a significant increase in its funding, jumping to $62 million.
The broader climate philanthropy landscape has also grown. By 2023, total foundation funding for climate initiatives reached $4.8 billion, a significant increase from $1.7 billion in 2019. Scott’s contributions alone appear to represent two years’ worth of gains for the entire sector.
A notable trend in this year’s awards is the emphasis on environmental justice. Many recipients focus on issues like women’s rights and land tenure, showcasing the interconnectedness of these topics with climate action. For example, organizations like the Urban Movement Innovation Fund, which supports youth leaders in climate activism, received $20 million.
Geographically, Scott’s funding spans multiple continents. In Brazil, she significantly increased support for climate groups, reflecting her focus on the Amazon. Organizations like Projeto Saúde e Alegria received an $8 million boost, emphasizing the critical work being done in this biodiverse region.
In the U.S., many of Scott’s donations targeted groups advocating for environmental justice, including organizations focused on rural communities and coal-reliant regions. A mix of new and returning recipients shows a commitment to amplifying diverse voices in the climate movement.
Scott’s philanthropic strategy represents a shift toward trust-based giving, empowering local organizations to make choices about how to allocate funds. This approach not only supports immediate needs but also fosters long-term resilience in the face of climate challenges.
In summary, MacKenzie Scott is not just a major donor; she’s reshaping the landscape of climate philanthropy. Her investments emphasize collaboration, innovation, and social justice, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.
For more detailed insights into her philanthropic ventures, visit Yield Giving.
