Budget Suites of America, a chain founded in 1987, serves as the primary financial engine for Robert Bigelow's diverse commercial interests. Operating across multiple states, the extended-stay enterprise provided the capital necessary for his later foray into the aerospace industry, a sector he pursued with the goal of creating orbital habitats and research modules at a fraction of existing government costs.
Real Estate and Business Foundation
Born in 1945, Bigelow attended Highland Elementary School before enrolling at the University of Nevada, Reno in 1962. He completed his studies at Arizona State University in 1967. Over several decades, starting in the late 1960s, he built an extensive portfolio consisting of approximately 15,000 units and the acquisition of 8,000 more. His hospitality brand, Budget Suites of America, maintains properties in Texas, Nevada, and Arizona, providing the liquidity that defined his professional trajectory.
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In 1999, he established Bigelow Aerospace, intending to develop private commercial space stations. He successfully launched experimental modules, including Genesis I in 2006 and Genesis II in 2007. Despite plans for a $2.3 billion orbital space hotel, the company halted all operations in March 2020, laying off 88 employees amid the coronavirus pandemic. A year later, Bigelow initiated legal action against NASA regarding payment disputes for testing and development contracts.
Research into Anomalies and Consciousness
Beyond his business ventures, Bigelow has long funded investigations into paranormal phenomena. Furthermore, he encouraged Senator Harry Reid to launch the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program. In 2020, he established the Bigelow Institute for Consciousness Studies, offering significant cash prizes for research into the continuity of consciousness after biological death.
Political Engagement
Bigelow has directed significant financial resources toward Republican political causes. In July 2022, he contributed $10 million to the re-election campaign of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. He has also donated over $25 million to support Joe Lombardo's campaign for Nevada governor. In 2024, he confirmed financial commitments to Donald Trump, including $1 million for legal expenses and a pledged $20 million for a super PAC.
Fast facts
- Born: 1945, United States
- Education: Arizona State University, University of Nevada, Reno
- Notable Business: Bigelow Aerospace, Budget Suites of America
- Award: Distinguished Nevadan (1995)
- Spouse: Diane Mona Grammy (1947–2020)
- Skinwalker Ranch Purchase: 1996 for $200,000
Questions readers ask
What is the status of Bigelow Aerospace?
Operations were halted in March 2020, and all 88 staff members were laid off.
What is the focus of the Bigelow Institute for Consciousness Studies?
The institute supports and funds research regarding the existence of consciousness after death.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Bigelow Aerospace
- Educated at Arizona State University and University of Nevada, Reno
