Billionaire Giving: Zuckerberg Shifts Focus, Scott Stands Firm
Zuckerberg and Chan Refocus on AI and Science
Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan have ended their decade-long funding of FWD, a group advocating for immigration and criminal justice reform. The couple now aims to concentrate on AI and science.
A Strategic Move
Experts anticipated this shift. The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) gradually distanced itself from social causes. FWD received financial support to ease the transition. Zuckerberg's company, Meta, is already a tech leader but must keep innovating.
MacKenzie Scott's Philanthropic Approach
MacKenzie Scott is taking a different path. In 2025 alone, she donated £5.2bn to underrepresented communities. Her focus includes:
- Black and tribal colleges
- Native scholarships
- Low-income students
Unlike Zuckerberg, Scott provides unrestricted funds and supports organizations promoting equity.
Impact and Contrasts
Zuckerberg's New Focus
Zuckerberg's shift towards AI and science could yield breakthroughs in biology and technology. However, experts argue that Scott's grants have a more profound impact. By supporting diverse communities, she fosters societal improvement, which is crucial for the usefulness of AI tools.
The Future of FWD
Zuckerberg's departure from immigration advocacy leaves FWD in need of new backers or a scaled-back operation. Scott's philanthropy offers a counterbalance, avoiding the political spotlight while letting her work speak for itself.
A Study in Contrasts
These two billionaires exemplify different approaches to philanthropy. One aligns with political trends, while the other challenges them. Their strategies highlight the diverse ways wealth can be leveraged for social good.
