From luxury projects in New York and Miami to humanitarian work across the continents, developer and investor Guy Smilovic shares how wealth, when directed with intention, can transform people’s lives.
Over more than three decades, Jay Smilovic has built his reputation as a disciplined real estate investor and developer with properties in New York, Miami, and select international markets. He has managed his investment portfolio and client assets with an emphasis on integrity, timeliness and diversification.
But beyond numbers, Smilovic defines success through service. After achieving financial independence, he turned his focus toward philanthropy, co-founding a foundation that provides direct aid to Holocaust survivors and supports causes ranging from poverty alleviation to humanitarian programs around the world. His story is one of perseverance, principle and purpose.
Assets and vision
Impact Wealth: You have built a multi-faceted career in real estate, investing, and philanthropy. Let’s start at the beginning. What first sparked your motivation to build and invest?
Guy Smilovic: Success to me is understanding that everything you’ve been given isn’t really yours; It is entrusted to you so that you can help others. At this point in my life, that means using what I have to contribute, to do good for people, raise my children well, and measure my accomplishments not by money but by kindness and influence.
IW: When you moved to the US and built your success from scratch, what were those first years like?
Guy Smilovitch: I came to New York about 30 years ago. I built everything from nothing. But I had faith, worked hard, and believed in myself. The city gave me an incredible opportunity. I got my green card, built a business, started a family, and fell in love with the energy and diversity of New York City. It is a city that pushes you to grow every day.
Real estate and investment philosophy
IW: You have developed and managed real estate in New York and Miami, two very competitive markets. What makes each city special to you as an investor and developer?
Guy Smilovic: New York is where it all started for me; It’s where I found my first opportunities. The city has its own unique rhythm and intensity that I love. Florida was different. I started investing in 2009-2010 during the real estate crash. While most people saw chaos, I saw opportunity for construction. I have always loved being diverse, not only in the US but internationally as well.
IW: You have also invested abroad. How do you evaluate opportunities outside the United States?
Guy Smilovic: I invest globally because I like the world as it is, and I don’t like to put all my eggs in one basket. It’s partly protection, but it’s also affection. Every country has its beauty, people and history. I’m looking for economic stability, long-term value, and a place I can connect with personally.
IW: What sets you apart from other developers or fund managers?
Guy Smilovic: I’m doing my homework. I don’t take unnecessary risks. I return my loans and stay honest with everyone I work with. I am careful with other people’s money and always try to do the right thing. This is how I built confidence and, ultimately, success.
IW: How do you balance managing your own projects and overseeing other people’s investments?
Guy Smilovic: It’s all about trust, building teams and relationships with good people. This is not easy today. But you have to give people a chance and be a role model for them.
Leadership and strategy
IW: You have built multiple companies in different sectors. What is your strategy to manage it effectively?
Guy Smilovic: I like to diversify my business. I own real estate, but I also have a finance and accounting company. I believe in spreading knowledge and opportunities in various fields. It keeps me learning and balanced.
IW: How do you build and maintain trust with your teams and investors?
Guy Smilovitch: Transparency. State your vision clearly, explain what you want to do, and back it up with results. When people see consistency, they trust you and introduce you to others. This is how good business relationships grow.
Philanthropy and purpose
IW: You have devoted more time and resources to philanthropy. What inspired this move from building wealth to building purpose?
Guy Smilovic: When you reach the point of success, it’s natural to look beyond yourself. I’ve always loved helping others, even when I didn’t have anything. But as my business grew, I had the means to do it on a larger scale. It gives me great pleasure to know that I can make a difference.
IW: Tell us about the Holocaust Survivors Foundation that you co-founded. What led to this and how did it develop?
Guy Smilovic: My partner and I started this business after visiting Auschwitz and Dachau. The experience changed me. There are still many Holocaust survivors in Israel who live without proper support. We decided to act. Our organization helps them directly, as we send money directly to their bank accounts, which are managed through social workers who check each case. It’s practical and personal. We also support UNICEF, Meals on Wheels, and individual families in need. It’s not easy, helping people can be harder than making money, but it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
IW: How do you decide which causes to support?
Guy Smilovic: We’ve built a network of social workers and hospitals that send us cases. We review everything carefully to make sure help gets to the right people. It’s about responsibility. Once people see your impact, more families reach out – and that’s how impact grows.
IW: Do you see philanthropy as part of your legacy or is it a daily practice?
Guy Smilovic: It’s my responsibility. If you have the ability to help, you should. Otherwise what’s the point? I don’t see myself as a special person. I just do what feels right and that’s what makes me happy.
Perspective, balance and legacy
IW: Looking back, what are the defining lessons of your journey?
Guy Smilovic: Living in New York has taught me resilience and gratitude. You meet people from all over; See what is possible. It inspires you to work hard and appreciate what you have. I think I would have done well anywhere, but New York gave me the platform to make it happen.
IW: What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs and investors just starting out?
Guy Smilovic: Always keep learning. Do your homework. Be careful and honest. Know your numbers – what’s coming in and what’s going out – and don’t overspend. You don’t need a fancy office; You need discipline. Make sure you can cover your loans and grow responsibly. Most importantly, believe in yourself and trust in God.
IW: What do you hope your story and work represents to others?
Man: I hope people read my story and feel encouraged to help others. Even if one person is inspired to make another person’s life better, that’s enough. Helping those in need – that is true success.
IW: How do you see the next chapter?
Man: I want to focus on charitable work, giving more to society, and living in peace. I pray for peace in the world – that is my dream. When peace comes, I will be the happiest man alive.
Concluding thoughts
Jay Smilovic’s story is one of resilience, discipline, and generosity—a reminder that true success lies not just in what you build, but in how you give. “When you help others, you become part of something greater than yourself. This is what it means to live with purpose,” he says.
