Michael S. Smith

Early Life and Education

Michael S. Smith was born in the Bronx, New York. He studied pre-med at Colorado State University but dropped out during his senior year. He later obtained a real estate license in Colorado in 1978.

Rise to Success

Smith's career began in real estate and later transitioned into the oil and gas sector. He made his first fortune through Basin Exploration, which he sold in 2001. He then made a significant investment in the LNG industry. Smith's foresight led him to build a massive LNG export facility in Freeport, Texas, which has been instrumental in exporting U.S. shale gas globally.

Key Business Strategies

Key to Smith's success has been his strategic ability to capitalize on market shifts and secure long-term contracts. He secured 20-year contracts with major energy companies and sold equity stakes in the Freeport LNG project. Smith’s ability to raise significant capital and execute complex projects has been crucial to his success.

Philanthropy

While specific amounts are difficult to verify, the Michael S. Smith Foundation has made various donations. The foundation does not accept unsolicited requests for funds. Donations have been made to the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces), AIPAC, Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, and more. In 2020, he and Iris Smith donated $1 million to support Holtz Children's Hospital and front-line workers at Jackson Health System.