Billionaire Profile
Glen Taylor
Global Rank
#1285

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Glen Taylor

CEO, Taylor Corporation
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.9B
As of December 2025
Age
84
Source
Printing
Industry
service
Citizenship
US

Biography

Glen Taylor is an American billionaire businessman and former politician. Born in 1941, he is the founder of Taylor Corporation, a multinational printing and electronics company and owner of the Star Tribune newspaper. His career began in the printing industry, which led him to build a vast business empire. Taylor's net worth is estimated at $2.9 billion as of May 2025. He has significantly impacted the business world and is also recognized for his ownership of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx sports franchises, and is a part owner of Minnesota United FC. He has been a prominent figure in the Republican Party and has contributed significantly to various charitable causes.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Glen Albert Taylor was born on April 20, 1941, in Comfrey, Minnesota. Growing up on a dairy farm, he learned the value of hard work. He graduated from Comfrey High School in 1959 and went on to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics, physics, and social studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in 1962. Later, he obtained an executive MBA from Harvard Business School in 1978.

Rise to Success

Taylor's career began with Carlson Wedding Service while he was in college. In 1975, he purchased the business and renamed it Taylor Corporation. Under his leadership, Taylor Corporation grew into a leading graphic communications company with over 80 subsidiaries. This expansion was achieved through strategic acquisitions and organic growth. He expanded to printing and electronics, developing it into a multinational company.

Key Business Strategies

A key strategy for Taylor was acquisitions. He acquired over 200 companies in the graphic arts industry. A notable acquisition was the Standard Register Co. in 2015 for $307 million. Taylor's focus on innovation and customer needs enabled the expansion of Taylor Corporation into various printing and marketing solutions. This strategy helped the corporation to maintain a leading position in the industry, as well as a diverse set of services to power the potential of the world's leading brands.

Philanthropy

Taylor is known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He has contributed millions of dollars to various organizations, including the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University, Mankato, and the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, he supports the arts and has served on the boards of several arts organizations.

Career Milestones

1975

Founded Taylor Corporation

Purchased Carlson Wedding Service, which became Taylor Corporation, a major printing and communications company.

1981-1990

Minnesota State Senator

Served as a Republican in the Minnesota Senate.

1994

Acquired Minnesota Timberwolves

Purchased the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA team.

2014

Purchased Star Tribune

Acquired the Star Tribune newspaper.

2021

Sold majority stake in Timberwolves and Lynx

Entered an agreement to sell the majority stake of the Timberwolves and Lynx to Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, retaining a 20% stake.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

University of Minnesota

$XB

Donated to the University of Minnesota.

Education

Minnesota State University, Mankato

$XB

Largest philanthropic supporter of Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Healthcare

Mayo Clinic

$XB

Donated to the Mayo Clinic.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I like the garden and the farm stuff because I'm by myself, and it's the opposite of what I do all day long: sit in meetings, solve problems, listen to people, hear complaints and deal with bad things. That's my job."

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Focusing on new ideas, methods, and solutions.

Customer Focus

Prioritizing the needs and satisfaction of customers.

Integrity

Maintaining strong ethical and moral principles.

Controversies & Challenges

2000

Secret Deal with Joe Smith

The NBA investigated a secret agreement with Joe Smith that violated salary cap rules, resulting in sanctions for the team.

2024

Dispute over Timberwolves Sale

Taylor voided the sale of the Timberwolves and Lynx to Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore, citing concerns about payroll cuts.