Chapter 3
High-Net-Worth Giving

High-Net-Worth Giving

In a world where wealth is reaching unprecedented heights, the influence on philanthropy by the most affluent individuals is both vast and evolving. Their growing fortunes offer immense potential for positive change, yet their approaches to giving are shifting. They are embracing innovation, technology, and new models of impact that challenge traditional assumptions.

^{Data from}^{Forbes: “America’s Most Generous Philanthropists 2025.”}

Noteworthy Bequests

Bequests remained a significant source of philanthropic giving in 2024, totaling $45.8 billion. Of that, $420.3 million came from five estates included in the Philanthropy 50, demonstrating the lasting impact of planned giving.

^{Data from}^{Giving USA 2025: The Annual Report on Philanthropy for the Year 2024}
^{Chronicle of Philanthropy: “The Philanthropy 50: An Exclusive Chronicle Ranking of Who Gives the Most to Charity.”}

What is the largest donation your organization ever received?

Less than $50,000
$50,000–$249,999
$250,000–$999,999
$1M–$9.9 M
$10M–$99.9 M
$100M–$999.9 M
$1B or more

In This Chapter
You'll Discover

The top 10 mega-donors of 2024
Where donations of $1 Million or more went
High-net-worth giving through a generational lens

EXPLORE MAJOR DONOR TRENDS