Lisa Sobrato Sonsini

Lisa Sobrato Sonsini is an accomplished philanthropist and community leader who has helped shape the philanthropic landscape of Silicon Valley over a 30-year career. Lisa began her professional journey in corporate and securities law, advising startups during the early years of the region’s technology boom. In the mid-90s, Lisa created the Sobrato Family Foundation, a unifying platform for her family’s philanthropic efforts across multiple generations. Under her leadership, the foundation has grown into one of the largest philanthropies in the United States, partnering with communities to meet urgent needs, dismantle systemic barriers, and pursue long-term social justice. Sobrato Philanthropies is part of The Sobrato Organization, a multi-generational family enterprise that has played a central role in the economic and social fabric of Silicon Valley for nearly 70 years. Lisa currently serves as Chair of The Sobrato Organization’s Owners Council and member of its Governance Board, helping to guide the integration of the family’s real estate, investment, and philanthropic assets for maximum impact.

Extending her vision beyond traditional philanthropy, Lisa co-founded Ravello Impact with her husband, Matt Sonsini. Ravello Impact is a social impact and investment collaborative that supports values-driven innovation and social entrepreneurship to create positive change. One of Ravello Impact’s flagship efforts is Academic Innovation Catalyst, a program that partners with top-tier research institutions such as UC Berkeley to help academic innovators bring socially impactful discoveries to market. Ravello Impact also engages in local urban renewal, reflecting Matt and Lisa’s belief in the power of place and infrastructure to drive opportunity and equity. Lisa is a passionate advocate for disadvantaged youth, particularly those navigating the educational and foster care systems, and supports ventures around the world that empower local communities through education, healthcare, and economic development. She received her BA from UCLA and JD from Berkeley Law.