Finance Chiefs Kravis, Ackman and Gray Have Advice for New Philanthropists

The world of finance is focused on how to get high returns, and people in the industry seek the same in their philanthropy. Of course, what that looks like is shaped by a donor’s values and passions. Here are several people in finance who’ve defined their giving early in their careers. One has poured hundreds of millions of dollars into brick-and-mortar projects. Another is helping bring better seeds and fertilizer to farmers in Africa. One couple seeks a breakthrough in understanding the gene mutations that increase the risk of cancer; another is funding research to improve U.S. education. Their stories may help you define your path.

Henry Kravis found success early, co-founding KKR & Co. at age 32. When he turned 40—the year KKR pulled off its first $1 billion buyout—he decided it was time to start giving back in a meaningful way. “So I called up the best philanthropist I knew, David Rockefeller, and asked him what to do,” he says. “David said, ‘Get involved.’ ” Kravis followed not only that advice but also Rockefeller’s example of focusing some of his philanthropy on New York City.