Robert F. Smith’s Philanthropy
Philanthropist and entrepreneur Robert F. Smith is committed to uplifting the human spirit, particularly by supporting and leading organizations that address issues in communities that often lack access to opportunities and resources. Smith works with Fund II Foundation as its founding director and President. Through his work, he has helped fund initiatives that advance opportunity for all, support education reform, expand outdoor access and preserve historic landmarks. In addition, his partnership with Fund II Foundation led to the creation of leadership programs and internship and career pipeline opportunities, including internXL.
Paying it Forward: Pillars of Philanthropy
Smith first learned about the importance of giving back to others from watching his family donate to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) each month, regardless of their financial situation. This inspired him to focus his philanthropic efforts on key pillars, including:
Ultimately, Smith hopes to teach younger generations about the importance of giving back through his philanthropic efforts. He also aspires others to step forward and become community leaders and philanthropists who will help make the world a better place for all.
Smith aims to encourage outdoor preservation and access by working with organizations like Lincoln Hills Cares.
“There’s nothing greater than liberating the human spirit.”
-Robert F. Smith
Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners
About Smith
Smith was born into a middle-class family in Denver, CO. Smith’s mother carried him as an infant to the historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The words spoken that day by iconic leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. regarding the connection between economic health and civil rights were reiterated to Smith by his parents throughout his childhood. Smith has worked to advance this conversation by bringing awareness to the limited opportunities present for those who lack access to education and job opportunities. Smith later reflected on the profound legacy of Dr. King’s famous words during the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, where he delivered a speech emphasizing the ongoing pursuit of opportunities and resources for all. Smith continues to be inspired by the teachings of Dr. King. In the book “Lead Boldly,” Smith provides insightful commentary on seven principles from Dr. King and reflects on how they influence his leadership development.
Smith is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners (Vista), a leading global technology investor. Founded in 2000, the firm exclusively invests in enterprise software (B2B SaaS) across private equity and private credit. The firm’s private wealth team works directly with wealth managers to provide eligible investors with access to private equity and credit investments in enterprise software.
Over the years, Smith has broadened the scope of his philanthropic work to include support for Morehouse College, Student Freedom Initiative (SFI), Southern Communities Initiative (SCI) and more. In 2017, Smith became the first Black American to sign the Giving Pledge, committing to investing more than half of his net worth in charitable projects that will ensure a better future for all.
In addition, Smith has helped communities gain access to critical health screenings. The Mount Sinai Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit provides education on prostate health and offers screenings and referrals for follow-up care and treatment. In 2020, he partnered with the Prostate Cancer Foundation to develop a genetics-based early detection test, the Smith Polygenic Risk Test for Prostate Cancer.
News and Updates
How To Lead Boldly in Your Community
Bold leadership means giving back to your community so that others can achieve their full potential.
Robert F. Smith Named One of TIME100’s Most Influential People in Philanthropy
TIME100 has named Robert F. Smith a Titan of Philanthropy on its 2025 list of the most influential people in philanthropy, honoring his dedication to giving.
The Dimond Family Helps Cornell Do the Greatest Good
With a $13 million gift to Cornell University, the Dimond family is expanding educational opportunities for students at the Nolan School of Hotel Administration.
Multimedia
Watch Smith’s conversations, speeches and interviews to learn more about his life, philanthropy and thought leadership.
