She asked 50 strangers to figure out how she should spend her $27 million inheritance. Here’s what they came up with.

Last year, heiress Marlene Engelhorn posed a question to her Austrian colleagues: «How should I spend my inheritance of 25 million euros?Engelhorn, who comes from a European business dynasty, said she would select 50 foreigners from different demographics to come up with ways for her to use her money – and now, their spending plan has been released.

Englehorn sent invitations to 10,000 randomly selected Austrians, asking them to complete a survey. She narrowed the poll’s participants to 50 council members and tasked them with handing out 25 million euros — more than $27 million — to those in need, as Austria does not impose property taxes and inheritance.

The diverse council included people of different ages, incomes, education levels and even attitudes about wealth distribution. They were moderated by a team of eight and were also advised by academics and experts.

After meeting over six weekends, the 50-person team, called the «Gutter Rat» or Good Council, decided to distribute the legacy to 77 initiatives, including the Tax Justice Network, Attac Austria, the Momentum Institute and the World Inequality Lab.

They decided to use the money to fight poverty-related diseases and protect women from violence. «Poor makes you sick and sick makes you poor,» said council member Dietmar Feurstein, quoting from the council’s deliberations.

They are donating a portion of Englehorn’s legacy to women’s shelters, deaf associations and inclusive football clubs.

Another area of ​​focus – housing, integration and education – was brought to the table by 17-year council member Kyrillos Gadall. They chose to donate to organizations that work to receive affordable housing for those in need.

They also wanted to focus on migrants and refugees supporting language courses and other educational courses, as well as organizations advocating for better access to health care and working conditions.

«In summary, the result is as diverse as the council itself,» said project manager Alexandra Wang. «Initiatives that directly support those affected or address the causes of the problem were supported. Both small and large organisations, as well as new initiatives and long-established organisations, were considered.»

She said all the decisions had one thing in common: «They want a fairer society. They want everyone to live well together. And they want to support those who are discriminated against.»