Science and engineering Youtuber Derek Muller does in in depth explainer on how Shuji Nakamura, invented blue LEDs approximately 30 years ago while working for Nichia ( against the company’s wishes). His success and invention of the blue LED was essential for the development of the entire LED industry as we know it today. It made Nichia one of the largest LED manufacturers in the world, generated hundreds of millions of dollars in profits for the company. The value of his invention and subsequent technologies is certainly well into the trillions.