Philanthropy
News and Updates
Read the latest news about Robert F. Smith’s philanthropy as well as events and news concerning his thought leadership, philanthropic partners and charitable initiatives.
How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop
How Providing Students With Online Resources Helps Inspire STEM Careers
Pursuing a career in STEM can place students at the forefront of innovation and technology. Critical to these careers is the development of STEM skills, which can open doors to careers as inventors, astronauts, researchers and leaders in many other technology-related fields. While it is never too late to develop
Why Financial Literacy Is Important for Students
Financial literacy is a critical component for a healthy and stable future. Learn about why we need it in schools.
How Racial Bias in the Bond Market Impacts Black Americans
New research shows that racial bias has a significant impact on the municipal bond market. Learn more about this issue and how it’s impacting the achievement gap.
Why Do Black Communities Still Have to Fight for Clean Water?
Clean water is essential to surviving yet many Black communities have unsafe water. Learn more about these conditions and what can be done to help.
Student Freedom Initiative Grows to Help Underserved Students
To help free underserved students from student loan debt, Student Freedom Initiative is expanding its program to support 34 schools. Learn more about the new cohort.
Changing Lives Through the Giving Pledge
The Giving Pledge champions wealthy people across the world to dedicate a portion of their wealth to philanthropy. Learn about Robert F. Smith’s commitment.
How Robert F. Smith is Closing the Digital Divide at HBCUs
Equitable access to the internet is lagging at HBCUs. Learn about how philanthropists like Robert F. Smith are helping.
Robert F. Smith at the 788th Meeting of the Economic Club of New York
At the Economic Club of New York, Robert F. Smith spoke about how hiring based on merit ensures a company will find the best candidate for a job. He also met with the Columbia Business School Smith scholars.
We Are Stronger When We Stand Together
In January 2025, Robert F. Smith visited Kraków, Poland, as part of the Black-Jewish solidarity mission hosted by the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation.
How Grameen America Empowers Women Entrepreneurs
Grameen America, a Southern Communities Initiative (SCI) partner organization, helps empower women entrepreneurs by providing access to capital and financial education.
Highlights and Takeaways on Global Connectivity and Innovation From the 2025 WEF Annual Meeting
Robert F. Smith shared his insights, along with other panelists, at the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.
The National Park Foundation’s Inclusive Storytelling Program Awards 2024 Grant Recipients
The National Park Foundation’s Inclusive Storytelling program provided millions in grants to over 60 national park sites and organizations. Visitors can now receive more complete histories of our national parks.
How Black Salons and Barbershops Are Revolutionizing Healthcare Outreach
Black-owned beauty and barber shops use their spaces to provide healthcare outreach to the Black community through initiatives.