Several Indian Americans have earned spots on the 2026 TIME100 Philanthropy list, with TIME recognizing their influence in shaping giving across social justice, global health, education, and large-scale charitable innovation.
Among those honored is Rajiv J. Shah, president of the Rockefeller Foundation and former administrator of USAID. TIME recognized Shah for steering major philanthropic investments in global health, food security, climate resilience, and economic opportunity. Under his leadership, the foundation has backed large-scale initiatives aimed at addressing some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Also named to the list is Deepak Bhargava, president of Freedom Together, one of the largest social justice grantmakers in the United States. TIME said Bhargava has helped redefine progressive philanthropy by directing resources toward racial equity, economic justice, immigrant rights, and democracy-building efforts. A longtime organizer and policy advocate, Bhargava has become one of the most influential voices in movement-based philanthropy.
Joining them is Anna Verghese, executive director of The Audacious Project, a philanthropic platform created by TED that funds ambitious, large-scale social impact initiatives. TIME described Verghese as a leader “funding big ideas,” noting that The Audacious Project has helped mobilize more than $3 billion for nonprofit ventures focused on climate action, education, public health, and social change since its launch.
The inclusion of Shah, Bhargava, and Verghese underscores the growing influence of Indian Americans in global philanthropy, with leaders of Indian origin helping direct billions of dollars toward solving some of the world’s most pressing problems.
TIME’s annual philanthropy list recognizes individuals who are transforming the culture of giving and expanding the reach of charitable impact across the globe.
