Women are redefining philanthropy amid ‘Great Wealth Transfer’

Women are giving more. They're donating to charity more frequently, in higher amounts, and with a sharper focus on outcomes. While billionaires like MacKenzie Scott and Melinda French Gates may garner headlines, this shift in generosity is happening at all levels—and it's accelerating.

American women will inherit and control $30 trillion in financial assets in the next five years. Experts say this "Great Wealth Transfer" is transforming the landscape of philanthropy, both in who is giving and how they give. In addition, trends show that more women are working in corporate America—and holding leadership roles, which is also increasing their earning potential, and therefore, giving potential.

"Women often approach giving from a place of purpose," said Megan Hughes, managing director of family office services at BOK Financial®. "They want to help their communities and leave something meaningful behind. For many, that desire drives greater engagement with their financial planning."

A different style of giving
The rise in women's wealth is only part of the story. Research suggests that women consistently give more, and differently, than men.

According to a study by the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, women are more likely than men to give to charity and, on average, donate higher dollar amounts. The trend holds across relationship status: single, divorced, widowed and never-married women are all more likely to give than their male counterparts.

Brooke Clark, an institutional client advisor at BOK Financial who works closely with nonprofit and foundation clients, said women donors also tend to be more strategic and focused on results.

"It's not just about writing a check," Clark said.

"The women I speak to are interested in understanding how charities will utilize their donations before they contribute. They're looking for transparency and impact. They're also thinking long-term about the kind of future they want to help build."

- Brooke Clark, institutional client advisor at BOK Financial

This mindset often leads to deeper involvement. Women may also volunteer, serve on boards, or help fundraise alongside their financial gifts. Their giving is often rooted in lived experiences, supporting causes that helped them or their families, said Clark.

Many nonprofits are adapting their approach in response. "We're seeing more women's giving circles and donor networks," said Clark. "Organizations are beginning to recognize that women are a powerful philanthropic force and are building engagement strategies around that."

Philanthropy as financial motivation
For some women, philanthropy isn't just a financial goal; it's a reason to build wealth in the first place.

"Many women aren't driven by the idea of accumulating wealth for its own sake," said Hughes. "But when they realize their financial power can support causes they care about, that's often a turning point. It can be why they want to grow their portfolio, understand their assets and start planning intentionally."

That mindset presents an opportunity for nonprofit organizations as well. Donors who feel connected to a mission and confident in how their contributions will be used are more likely to become loyal, long-term partners.

How to be a philanthropist
Women interested in making philanthropy part of their financial life don't have to wait until retirement or reach a specific net worth to get started. With a thoughtful plan, charitable giving can align with both personal values and financial goals.

Clark and Hughes suggest a few ways to begin:

• Identify causes that matter. Personal experiences and passions often guide the most meaningful giving.
• Consult a financial advisor or estate planner. Professionals can help create a strategy that's both impactful and tax efficient.
• Consider a donor-advised fund (DAF). These accounts allow donors to contribute now, receive an immediate tax deduction and distribute funds to nonprofits over time.
• Explore non-cash gifts. Donating appreciated stock, real estate or business interests can maximize both tax benefits and impact.
• Include charitable gifts in estate planning. Bequests made through wills or trusts ensure donors' legacies live on.

"When they realize their financial power can support causes they care about, that's often a turning point. It can be why women want to grow their portfolio, understand their assets and start planning intentionally."

- Megan Hughes, managing director of family office services at BOK Financial

Whether through a planned gift, an annual donation, or a role on a local nonprofit board, more women are embracing philanthropy as a key part of their financial identity and their long-term vision for change.

"It's more than just generosity," Clark said. "It's a demonstration of leadership."