As a founder of Great Plains Software and the current United States Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum’s net worth is more than just solid. Join us as we dive into Burgum’s finances, assets, and investments, as well as all other professional and private details.
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Who is Doug Burgum?
Doug Burgum is an American businessman and politician currently serving as the 55th U.S. Secretary of the Interior under President Donald Trump, a role he assumed in February 2025. Prior to this, he was the 33rd governor of North Dakota from 2016 to 2024.
Burgum made his fortune by founding Great Plains Software, which he sold to Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) for $1.1 billion in 2001. He also founded the real estate development firm Kilbourne Group and co-founded the venture capital firm Arthur Ventures.
In June 2023, Burgum launched a campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination but suspended his bid in December 2023. He later endorsed Donald Trump and was confirmed as Secretary of the Interior in January 2025. In his current role, Burgum has focused on expanding domestic energy production and reducing regulatory barriers, aligning with the administration’s “energy dominance” agenda.
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Doug Burgum’s net worth
In late 2023, Forbes estimated Doug Burgum’s net worth to be at least $100 million, with some sources claiming he’s worth over $1 billion. Either way, most of his money comes from Great Plains Software’s sale to Microsoft in 2001.
Disclaimer: This article provides an estimated net worth derived from publicly available sources, as we do not have access to Doug Burgum’s complete financial disclosures. As such, this figure should be considered an approximation. More accurate financial details would be available through official disclosures, which we do not have direct access to.
How did Doug Burgum make his money?
Here’s a brief overview of how Doug Burgum made his money:
- Great Plains Software: Burgum joined Great Plains Software in 1983 and played a pivotal role in its growth. He led the company to a successful initial public offering (IPO) and eventually sold it to Microsoft for $1.1 billion in 2001;
- Microsoft: After the acquisition, Burgum became a senior vice president at Microsoft, where he was awarded more than 1.7 million Microsoft shares;
- Kilbourne Group: Burgum founded this real estate development firm, which focuses on revitalizing downtown Fargo, North Dakota;
- Arthur Ventures: He co-founded this venture capital firm, which invests in early-stage software companies.
Controversies
Burgum’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues has been complicated. Initially, he vetoed several anti-LGBTQ+ bills, including one in 2021 that would have banned transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports. However, as he geared up for his 2024 presidential bid, he signed many of these bills into law, drawing criticism for his perceived shift in position.
Burgum has also faced controversy for his support of carbon pipeline projects, raising concerns about the use of eminent domain to acquire land. This has sparked debate and opposition among some voters.
Additionally, in 2020, Burgum condemned an anti-LGBTQ+ resolution by the North Dakota GOP, calling it hurtful and divisive rhetoric, a move that contrasted with many in his party and highlighted his conflicting positions on social issues.
The bottom line
Although we can’t quite pinpoint the exact number, Doug Burgum’s net worth of around $100 million is more than solid. Moreover, some claim it’s even higher, with estimates reaching up to $1 billion. Either way, Burgum is as rich of a US Governor as he is controversial, especially in his own party, due to his differing views on social issues.
Disclaimer: The content on this site should not be considered investment advice. Investing is speculative. When investing, your capital is at risk.
FAQs about Doug Burgum’s net worth
Who is Doug Burgum?
Doug Burgum is the Governor of North Dakota, a position he has held since 2016, and a businessman known for his work in the tech industry.
Is Doug Burgum a billionaire?
Doug Burgum is not a billionaire. While some sources have referred to him as such, more accurate estimates (Forbes) place his net worth around $100 million.
Did Doug Burgum work for Microsoft?
Yes, Doug Burgum worked for Microsoft after the company acquired his software company, Great Plains Software, in 2001.
How do Doug Burgum's social views differ from those of his party?
Doug Burgum is considered more socially moderate compared to many in the Republican Party, especially on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and criminal justice reform.
