Michael Bloomberg Tops Philanthropy Rankings for 2025

Michael Bloomberg has been recognized as the top donor in the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s annual ranking of the 50 biggest donors for the third consecutive year, contributing $4.3 billion in 2025. His donations support a variety of causes, including arts, education, environmental initiatives, public health, and city government improvements. Following Bloomberg, Bill Gates ranked second with $3.7 billion donated to the Gates Foundation, while the late Paul Allen secured third place with a $3.1 billion bequest aimed at establishing a foundation focused on science and technology. Warren Buffett also made significant contributions, donating $1.3 billion to four family foundations that support diverse causes. Collectively, the Philanthropy 50 donors contributed $22.4 billion in 2025, with a median gift of $105 million.

The IndependentTimes of Israel

The financial industry emerged as the primary source of wealth for these philanthropists, with 20 individuals contributing a total of $4.1 billion. The technology sector followed closely, with 12 donors giving $10 billion, while real estate donors contributed $466.7 million. Notably, more donors reside in New York and California than in any other states, leading to these regions receiving the highest amounts of philanthropic gifts.

Times of IsraelThe Independent

Many donors, including Jon and Mindy Gray, who ranked 34th with a contribution of $63.6 million, emphasize the personal significance of their giving. The Grays focus on supporting research related to inherited cancers and providing scholarships for students from New York City to attend historically Black colleges. Mindy Gray highlighted the importance of passion in philanthropy, stating, “You should not be doing this work in areas that don’t move you.” However, it is noted that only 19 of the wealthiest individuals on the Forbes 400 list made donations substantial enough to feature in this year's rankings, indicating a disparity in philanthropic engagement among the ultra-wealthy.

Times of Israel

The Chronicle of Philanthropy reported that foundations and donor-advised funds were the largest recipients of donations in 2025. Significant contributions were also directed towards various causes, including over $3 billion for science and technology, $1.5 billion for healthcare and medical research, and $871 million for athletics. Notable donations included a $500 million gift from Nike co-founder Phil Knight for cancer research and treatment.

The IndependentTimes of Israel

Despite the substantial contributions from the Philanthropy 50, critics point out that many of the wealthiest Americans, such as MacKenzie Scott, who has donated approximately $26 billion since 2020, do not appear in the rankings due to their choice to funnel donations through donor-advised funds without public disclosure. This raises questions about transparency and the broader impact of philanthropy among the wealthiest individuals.

The Independent

• “We’re very hands-on people — we enjoy it,” — Mindy Gray, Philanthropist

The Independent

• “It’s about building relationships,” — Jeff Schreifels, Fundraising Consultant

The Independent

This overview of the 2025 philanthropy landscape highlights the significant contributions made by a select group of wealthy individuals while also addressing the complexities and criticisms surrounding charitable giving in the United States.

Times of Israel