Arthur Blank: Business Leader, Sports Owner & Philanthropist

Arthur Blank is an American entrepreneur, sports franchise owner, and philanthropist best known for co-founding The Home Depot and owning the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. Born on September 27, 1942, in New York, Blank graduated from Babson College with a degree in business administration Source 1.

In 1978, Blank and Bernie Marcus launched The Home Depot, which grew into the world’s largest home-improvement retailer. He stepped down from daily operations in 2001 but remains a major shareholder Source 1.

Blank purchased the Atlanta Falcons in 2002. In January 2026, he fired head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot and announced plans to create a “president of football” role to oversee football operations Source 3. He also founded Atlanta United FC, which began MLS play in 2017 and quickly became one of the league’s most successful expansion teams Source 1.

Blank is ranked #25 on Forbes’ 2026 World’s Billionaires list, with his wealth largely tied to his Home Depot stake and sports holdings Source 6. Through the Arthur M. Blank Foundation and the Blank Family of Businesses, he supports education, health, and youth initiatives in Atlanta. In 2026, the foundation donated $2.5 million for Hurricane Melissa relief in Jamaica and Cuba Source 4.

Atlanta hosted matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under Blank’s involvement. He described the experience as the “highlight” of his life and joked about the city potentially hosting again in 2038 Source 10.

FAQ

What is Arthur Blank best known for?
Co-founding The Home Depot and owning the Atlanta Falcons.

When did Arthur Blank purchase the Atlanta Falcons?
He bought the team in 2002.

How much did the Arthur Blank Foundation donate after Hurricane Melissa?
$2.5 million to support relief efforts in Jamaica and Cuba.

What recent changes has Blank made to the Falcons’ front office?
He fired the head coach and general manager and plans to hire a “president of football.”

Which major sporting event did Atlanta host under Blank’s involvement?
Matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What is Arthur Blank’s approximate ranking on the Forbes billionaires list?
#25 on the 2026 edition.