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

Black Giving Circles: A Look Back at Black Philanthropy
Black giving circles and philanthropy have a history of uplifting communities through transformative contributions.

How HBCUs Are Transforming Education Into Economic Empowerment
Explore how HBCUs empower Black students through education, career readiness and community impact, driving economic mobility and bridging the racial wealth gap.

The Importance of Black Women Entrepreneurs
Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs today, helping create racial equity in business.

Developing More Green Spaces in Inner Cities
Urban green spaces provide recreational, social and health benefits for residents of inner cities in the U.S. Several organizations are working to build and preserve parks, greenbelts and more.

Bridging the Gap: Propelling Black Pilots Into Aviation
The lack of Black pilots has prompted airlines and other organizations to develop recruiting programs aimed at increasing representation in aviation.

Robert Kraft Donates $1 Million to Promote Black and Jewish Unity
In April 2024, Robert Kraft donated $1 million to United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to promote unity between Black and Jewish student organizations.

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.