Most billionaires are stuck in ‘slow philanthropy.’ MacKenzie Scott gave away $26 billion and won’t stop until ‘the safe is empty’

MacKenzie Scott has stunned the world with her extraordinary philanthropic efforts, particularly her rapid donation of over $26 billion in a short span of time. This pattern of giving, which deviates significantly from the norm, has earned her praise from figures such as Melinda French Gates, who values her actions over mere words.

However, many billionaires tend to exhibit "slow philanthropy," a phenomenon researched by Jeffrey Bradach of Bridgespan Group. According to Bradach, ultra-wealthy individuals are often reluctant to disperse their wealth, despite having access to substantial resources. He attributes this to factors including the discomfort of failure in philanthropy compared to investing, difficulty in delegation, and an underestimate of the capabilities of nonprofits to utilize funds efficiently.

Yet, Scott stands out as an outlier, employing "trust-based philanthropy," which allows her to unburden organizations with unrestrictive donations that can be utilized swiftly and innovatively. Despite the challenges, Scott remains steadfast in her mission, declaring that she will continue her giving until her wealth is depleted, emphasizing her commitment to the cause.