Last Updated: February 23, 2025
Category:
Richest BusinessExecutives
Net Worth:
$400 Million
Birthdate:
Apr 2, 1956 (68 years old)
Birthplace:
Chicago, Illinois
Profession:
Philanthropist, Technology entrepreneur, Technology investor
  1. What Is David Bohnett's Net Worth?
  2. Early Life And Career Beginnings
  3. GeoCities
  4. Philanthropy And Social Impact
  5. Legacy And Continued Influence

What is David Bohnett's net worth?

David Bohnett is an American entrepreneur who has a net worth of $400 million. David Bohnett is a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist best known for co-founding GeoCities, the groundbreaking web platform that redefined personal expression online. In a landmark deal in 1999, GeoCities was acquired by Yahoo for $3.57 billion, a transaction that not only validated the transformative potential of the internet but also catapulted Bohnett into the upper echelons of tech wealth. This monumental sale provided him with the financial foundation to explore new ventures and fuel his passion for social causes. Bohnett's share of the deal was $300 million in cash.

Leveraging this success, Bohnett has consistently demonstrated an uncanny ability to identify emerging trends in technology while reinvesting his fortune in initiatives that promote LGBT rights, social justice, and community empowerment. His career is a testament to how strategic innovation paired with a commitment to philanthropy can create a lasting impact on both the business world and society at large.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born during a time when technological innovations were beginning to reshape society, David Bohnett's early life was marked by an innate curiosity and a passion for new ideas. Growing up in an environment that valued creativity and forward-thinking, he was drawn to the burgeoning potential of the digital age. His academic pursuits and early professional experiences provided him with a robust foundation in both business management and technology—a combination that would later prove essential in his pioneering work with GeoCities. These formative years were characterized by experimentation and a willingness to embrace the unknown, qualities that would define his approach to entrepreneurship throughout his career.

GeoCities

Bohnett's breakthrough came with the founding of GeoCities in the mid-1990s, at a time when the internet was still in its infancy. The platform offered everyday users the opportunity to create their own web pages, effectively democratizing online publishing. This innovation resonated widely, and as the internet's popularity soared, so did GeoCities' influence. The pivotal moment came in 1999, when Yahoo acquired GeoCities for an astonishing $3.57 billion. David walked away with $300 million from the sale.

This sale not only underscored the value of digital communities in the emerging online ecosystem but also provided Bohnett with the capital to invest in future technological ventures. The success of GeoCities remains a defining chapter in his career, cementing his reputation as a forward-thinking entrepreneur capable of turning visionary ideas into immense financial success.

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Philanthropy and Social Impact

While Bohnett's entrepreneurial achievements have garnered significant wealth, his commitment to philanthropy has equally defined his legacy. With a portion of the fortune generated from the GeoCities sale, he established the David Bohnett Foundation, channeling resources into causes that promote social justice, LGBT rights, and community empowerment. His philanthropic efforts are driven by the belief that technological progress should benefit society as a whole. Through generous donations and active involvement in various initiatives, Bohnett has supported projects ranging from grassroots activism to large-scale community programs. His work in this realm underscores a deep commitment to ensuring that the benefits of his financial success extend to those who are often underrepresented or marginalized, making a lasting social impact that transcends the tech industry.

Legacy and Continued Influence

David Bohnett's journey from a curious innovator to a tech magnate and philanthropic leader is a story of vision, resilience, and social responsibility. His pioneering work with GeoCities, culminating in the record-setting sale to Yahoo, paved the way for future digital entrepreneurs and fundamentally reshaped the internet landscape. Beyond business, his sustained commitment to philanthropy has left an indelible mark on communities and causes worldwide. Bohnett's ongoing influence is evident in the way he continues to invest in emerging technologies and support progressive initiatives, ensuring that his legacy is both financially robust and socially impactful. His story inspires a new generation of innovators who see the potential for profit and purpose to coexist harmoniously.

All net worths are calculated using data drawn from public sources. When provided, we also incorporate private tips and feedback received from the celebrities or their representatives. While we work diligently to ensure that our numbers are as accurate as possible, unless otherwise indicated they are only estimates. We welcome all corrections and feedback using the button below.
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