Some of today’s wealthiest individuals are giving away millions without saying a word.

This rising trend, sometimes called “stealth giving,” is about more than just privacy. It reflects a shift toward more intentional, values-aligned philanthropy, especially among younger donors who want impact over recognition.

Let's explore how stealth giving works, what’s driving its popularity, and how you can adopt a similar approach, whether or not anyone knows your name.

Key Takeaways

More high-net-worth donors are choosing long-term impact over public recognition.

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) offer a tax-efficient and discreet way to give.

Everyday givers can support causes discreetly by using DAFs or community foundations.

Big Giving, Small Spotlight: Why Some Donors Stay Under the Radar

Some of the biggest givers today are doing it quietly, and sometimes so quietly that the public only finds out months later. MacKenzie Scott, for example, has donated over $19 billion to nonprofits since her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, often without press releases or public ceremonies.

Big Giving, Small Spotlight: Why Some Donors Stay Under the Radar

Some of the biggest givers today are doing it quietly, and sometimes so quietly that the public only finds out months later. MacKenzie Scott, for example, has donated over $19 billion to nonprofits since her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, often without press releases or public ceremonies.

This low-profile approach is known as stealth giving, but experts say it's less about secrecy and more about evolving priorities.

“They care less about the recognition nowadays,” said Jerry Sneed, co-founder and managing partner of Third View Private Wealth. “They care more about actually making the impact.”

Sneed noted that while past giving was often transactional—donate money, get a tax break, maybe a building named after you—today’s donors tend to take a more thoughtful approach. “It's a passion project usually,” he said. “They just want to support the effort.”

Donor-Advised Funds Are Quietly Transforming Philanthropy

One reason quiet giving has become more common is the rise of donor-advised funds (DAFs). This flexible giving vehicle lets donors contribute money, take an immediate tax deduction, and then decide where to send the funds over time.

“It allows you to take the time to be intentional about what you are going to support,” Sneed explained.

By Soren Hottenstein

Fact checked by Vikki Velasquez