The business leaders you’ll read about below could have gotten high-paying jobs with big companies. There’s nothing wrong with a high-paying job with a big company, of course. But each of the protagonists in these tales of commercial adventure desired to follow a different career storyline. They saw opportunities; they dreamt dreams; they were willing to take risks—and they possessed the endurance to overcome the hurdles and challenges that come with risk. They took roads not everyone would (or should) wish to take. But all of us should be grateful that they followed those trails—and we can all draw inspiration from what they’ve achieved.
2013 Small Business Success Stories
Mark Levine got in on the first chapter of the self-publishing trend—and rewrote the rules.
A sonar company in bankruptcy makes a comeback by focusing on the ice-fishing market.
New territories—particularly in the North Dakota oilfields—keep this liquid storage tank company pumping.
A fitness club conversation led to a business creating cheerleader uniforms for both amateur and professional sports teams.
What began as a basement IT consultancy now provides contingency support staff to businesses worldwide.
Paul Taunton built a one-stop source of uniforms, printing, and other services for businesses by putting himself in the customer’s shoes.
A lot of people still love role-playing games without computer screens. Christian Petersen helps gird them for battle.
This creator of personalized books for kids is as much tech company as publisher.
Two tech execs saw an opportunity to help seniors stay in their homes longer. Venture capitalists caught on—and the company is quickly expanding.
