Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Arthur Blank

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 16, 2026

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Arthur Blank made an impact.

Arthur Blank is a prominent American businessman best known as the co-founder of The Home Depot, which revolutionized the home improvement retail industry. After a successful corporate career, he pivoted toward sports ownership, acquiring the NFL's Atlanta Falcons in 2002. His influence in the sports world expanded significantly with the establishment of Atlanta United FC in Major League Soccer, a franchise that achieved immediate popularity and success. Beyond business and sports, Blank is a dedicated philanthropist, having signed The Giving Pledge; he focuses his charitable efforts on youth development, education, and community wellness through the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. His leadership is widely recognized for its emphasis on a 'values-based' corporate culture, prioritizing the well-being of associates and customers alongside financial profitability.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1963: Graduation from Babson Institute and Beginning of Accounting Career

In 1963, Arthur Blank graduated from the Babson Institute, which subsequently led to his employment at Arthur Young and Company, where he served in the role of a senior accountant.

1978: Co-founding of The Home Depot

In 1978, Arthur Blank co-founded The Home Depot alongside Bernie Marcus, leveraging the support of investment banker Ken Langone and merchandising expertise from Patrick Farrah to establish a one-stop shopping destination for DIY enthusiasts.

1978: Termination from Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers

In 1978, Arthur Blank, who was serving as the vice president of finance, was fired from Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers alongside CEO Bernard Marcus due to an internal power struggle within the company.

June 22, 1979: Grand Opening of The Home Depot Stores

On June 22, 1979, the very first two Home Depot stores were officially opened in Atlanta, marking the start of a retail revolution in the home improvement industry through their unique warehouse-style concept.

2001: Retirement from The Home Depot

After a distinguished career that included serving as president for 19 years and later as CEO, Arthur Blank retired from his position as co-chairman of The Home Depot in 2001.

February 2002: Purchase of the Atlanta Falcons

In February 2002, Arthur Blank officially acquired the Atlanta Falcons professional football franchise from Taylor Smith, the son of the team's original founder, Rankin M. Smith Sr.

September 2004: Acquisition and Relocation of the Georgia Force

In September 2004, Arthur Blank expanded his sports portfolio by purchasing the Georgia Force, an Arena Football League franchise, and subsequently relocating the team to Atlanta from Gwinnett County.

2006: Atlanta Braves Ownership Negotiations

In 2006, Arthur Blank expressed significant interest in purchasing the Atlanta Braves, initially withdrawing from contention before re-entering negotiations with Time Warner later that same year.

February 2007: Atlanta Braves Sale Conclusion

In February 2007, the potential acquisition of the Atlanta Braves by Arthur Blank ended when the team was officially sold to Liberty Media.

2017: Inaugural Season of Atlanta United FC

In 2017, the expansion Major League Soccer franchise founded by Arthur Blank, Atlanta United FC, officially began its competitive play while sharing the Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the Atlanta Falcons.

2018: Atlanta United FC wins the MLS Cup

During the 2018 season, Atlanta United FC, an organization owned by Arthur Blank, secured the championship title by winning the MLS Cup.

March 2020: Arthur Blank Foundation COVID-19 Relief Donation

In March 2020, the foundation established by Arthur Blank committed nearly $5.4 million in funding to support pandemic relief efforts within the states of Georgia and Montana.

October 2020: Naming Rights Announcement for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Hospital

In October 2020, it was announced that a new Children's Healthcare of Atlanta facility would be named after Arthur Blank following his generous $200 million contribution to the hospital project.

October 2020: Establishment of the Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research

In October 2020, the Arthur M. Blank Foundation provided a $20 million legacy grant to support the creation of the Arthur M. Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research located at the University of Texas at Austin.

2023: Acquisition of Atlanta Drive GC

During the year 2023, Arthur Blank added to his professional sports investments by purchasing the Atlanta Drive GC, a team competing in the TGL.

May 22, 2024: Sports Business Journal Lifetime Achievement Award

On May 22, 2024, Arthur Blank was honored with the Sports Business Journal's Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC, and his broader impact on the local community.

September 29, 2024: Opening of the Arthur M. Blank Hospital

On September 29, 2024, the Arthur M. Blank Hospital officially opened its doors to the public, marking the completion of a project supported by a significant donation from Arthur Blank.