The allure of entrepreneurship is undeniable. With the promise of unlimited earning potential, many dream of taking the leap into the world of business ownership. But, does the reality of entrepreneurship live up to the hype? In this article, we’ll explore the financial potential of entrepreneurship and examine whether the risk is worth the reward. From startup success stories to the harsh realities of small business failure, we’ll dive into the world of entrepreneurship and discover if the dream of making big bucks is truly attainable.
What is an entrepreneur and what do they do?
Types of entrepreneurs
There are various types of entrepreneurs, each with their unique characteristics and motivations. Here are some of the most common types:
- Innovative entrepreneurs: These individuals are driven by the desire to create something new and innovative. They often develop new products or services that disrupt existing markets.
- Social entrepreneurs: These entrepreneurs are focused on solving social or environmental problems. They aim to create businesses that have a positive impact on society while also generating profits.
- Scalable startup entrepreneurs: These entrepreneurs aim to create businesses that can be scaled rapidly. They focus on developing products or services that can be quickly grown and expanded to reach a large audience.
- Lifestyle entrepreneurs: These entrepreneurs are primarily focused on creating businesses that allow them to maintain a certain lifestyle. They may not necessarily aim for rapid growth or high profits, but instead focus on creating a sustainable business that meets their personal needs.
- Serial entrepreneurs: These individuals start multiple businesses throughout their career. They often have a high tolerance for risk and are comfortable moving on from one venture to the next.
- Small business owners: These entrepreneurs run small businesses that may be family-owned or passed down through generations. They often have a deep understanding of their local market and focus on providing goods and services to their community.
Each type of entrepreneur has its own unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding the different types can help individuals determine which type of entrepreneur they may be best suited for based on their skills, interests, and goals.
Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs
A successful entrepreneur possesses a unique combination of skills, qualities, and characteristics that set them apart from the average individual. While there is no definitive list of traits that guarantee success, several common characteristics are observed among entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable financial gains.
Risk tolerance
One of the most significant traits of successful entrepreneurs is their ability to tolerate and manage risk. They are willing to take calculated risks and make bold decisions, even in the face of uncertainty. This trait is crucial because entrepreneurship involves navigating uncharted territories, and taking risks is often necessary to achieve significant growth and returns.
Visionary thinking
Successful entrepreneurs are typically visionary thinkers who can see opportunities where others do not. They possess a unique ability to identify gaps in the market, spot emerging trends, and imagine innovative solutions to problems. This trait is essential because it enables entrepreneurs to develop novel products, services, or business models that disrupt existing markets and create new ones.
Resilience and persistence
Entrepreneurship is often characterized by setbacks, failures, and obstacles. Successful entrepreneurs are known for their resilience and persistence in the face of adversity. They are able to bounce back from failures, learn from their mistakes, and keep pushing forward, even when faced with significant challenges. This trait is crucial because entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint, and perseverance is key to achieving long-term success.
Strong work ethic
Successful entrepreneurs are typically characterized by their strong work ethic and dedication to their businesses. They are willing to put in long hours, make sacrifices, and go above and beyond to achieve their goals. This trait is essential because entrepreneurship requires a tremendous amount of effort, focus, and commitment to build a successful venture.
Networking and relationship-building skills
Networking and relationship-building skills are also critical for successful entrepreneurs. They are able to forge strategic partnerships, build a supportive network of mentors, advisors, and investors, and leverage their connections to drive growth and success. This trait is essential because entrepreneurship is not a solo journey; it requires collaboration, support, and a strong network of stakeholders to achieve success.
Adaptability and learning agility
Finally, successful entrepreneurs are known for their adaptability and learning agility. They are able to pivot quickly in response to changing market conditions, customer needs, or new opportunities. They are also open to learning from others, seeking feedback, and continuously improving their skills and knowledge. This trait is crucial because entrepreneurship is a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, and the ability to adapt and learn is essential to staying ahead of the competition and achieving long-term success.
The financial rewards of entrepreneurship
Earnings potential
While the journey of entrepreneurship is often characterized by uncertainty and risk, it is also a path that offers significant financial rewards. For those who are able to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, the earnings potential can be substantial. In this section, we will explore the various ways in which entrepreneurs can generate wealth through their ventures.
- Profit sharing: One of the most straightforward ways in which entrepreneurs can earn money is through profit sharing. When a business generates profits, these earnings can be distributed among the owners and shareholders. Depending on the legal structure of the company, this may take the form of dividends, salaries, or bonuses.
- Capital gains: Another way in which entrepreneurs can generate wealth is through capital gains. This occurs when the value of a business increases over time, leading to a higher valuation. This can happen as a result of a variety of factors, such as increased revenue, expanding market share, or the introduction of new products or services. When the business is sold or goes public, the owners can realize these gains in the form of cash or stock.
- Exit strategies: There are a variety of exit strategies that entrepreneurs can use to monetize their businesses. These may include selling the company to a larger organization, merging with another business, or going public through an initial public offering (IPO). Each of these options offers unique benefits and challenges, and the choice will depend on a variety of factors, including the goals of the entrepreneur and the state of the market.
- Personal branding: Finally, entrepreneurs can also generate wealth through personal branding. By building a strong reputation and following, entrepreneurs can monetize their expertise through speaking engagements, consulting gigs, and the sale of products or services. This can be a lucrative source of income, particularly for those who are able to establish themselves as thought leaders in their field.
In conclusion, the earnings potential of entrepreneurship is significant, but it is important to remember that success is never guaranteed. Entrepreneurs must be willing to take risks and make sacrifices in order to achieve their goals. However, for those who are able to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that come their way, the rewards can be substantial.
Growth potential
Entrepreneurship offers significant growth potential for those who are willing to take on the risks involved. For many entrepreneurs, the primary motivation for starting a business is the potential for rapid growth and the ability to scale their operations. This growth potential can be achieved through a variety of means, including expanding into new markets, developing new products or services, and increasing efficiency and productivity.
One of the key benefits of entrepreneurship is the ability to create something from scratch, and to build a business that reflects one’s vision and values. This can be incredibly rewarding for those who are passionate about their work and who are driven to succeed. In addition, entrepreneurship allows individuals to take control of their own destiny, and to shape their own future.
Another advantage of entrepreneurship is the potential for significant financial returns. Many successful entrepreneurs have built highly profitable businesses, and have reaped the rewards of their hard work and dedication. In fact, according to a recent study by the Kauffman Foundation, the average net worth of entrepreneurs is more than $4 million, which is significantly higher than the average net worth of non-entrepreneurs.
However, it’s important to note that entrepreneurship is not for everyone. It requires a great deal of hard work, dedication, and risk-taking, and many entrepreneurs will experience setbacks and failures along the way. Therefore, it’s important for aspiring entrepreneurs to carefully consider the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship before embarking on this path.
Case studies of successful entrepreneurs
Examining the success stories of entrepreneurs who have achieved significant financial rewards can provide valuable insights into the potential of entrepreneurship as a means of financial gain. The following case studies highlight some of the most influential and wealthy entrepreneurs of our time.
1. Jeff Bezos – Amazon
Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is one of the wealthiest individuals in the world, with a net worth of over $100 billion. He started Amazon as an online bookstore in 1994 and has since expanded it into a global e-commerce giant that offers a wide range of products and services. Bezos’ innovative approach to business and his relentless focus on customer satisfaction have been key factors in his success.
2. Bill Gates – Microsoft
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, is another hugely successful entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the world of technology. He co-founded Microsoft in 1975 and played a key role in developing the Windows operating system, which became one of the most widely used software programs in history. Gates’ estimated net worth is over $130 billion, making him one of the richest people in the world.
3. Elon Musk – Tesla and SpaceX
Elon Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, is a highly influential entrepreneur who has revolutionized the electric vehicle and space industries. He founded Tesla in 2003 with the goal of creating electric cars that were both environmentally friendly and stylish. SpaceX, which he founded in 2002, is working to make space travel more accessible and affordable. Musk’s estimated net worth is over $200 billion, making him one of the wealthiest people in the world.
4. Mark Zuckerberg – Facebook
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, is another hugely successful entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the world of technology. He founded Facebook in 2004 while still in college and has since turned it into one of the most widely used social media platforms in the world. Zuckerberg’s estimated net worth is over $100 billion, making him one of the richest people in the world.
5. Oprah Winfrey – Media and Entertainment
Oprah Winfrey, the founder of the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), is a highly influential entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the world of media and entertainment. She began her career as a local news anchor and later became a national talk show host. In 2008, she founded the Oprah Winfrey Network, which focuses on programming that reflects her values and interests. Winfrey’s estimated net worth is over $2.5 billion, making her one of the wealthiest women in the world.
These case studies demonstrate the immense financial potential of entrepreneurship. However, it is important to note that not all entrepreneurs will achieve this level of success. Entrepreneurship is inherently risky, and many businesses fail. It is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to carefully consider the risks and rewards before embarking on their entrepreneurial journey.
Risk and reward
Entrepreneurship is often viewed as a high-risk venture, but the potential financial rewards can be substantial. Successful entrepreneurs can reap significant financial benefits from their businesses, including substantial profits, high levels of equity, and increased personal wealth. However, the potential for financial gain is accompanied by the risk of financial loss. Entrepreneurs must weigh the potential risks and rewards of their venture before deciding to pursue it.
Financial benefits of entrepreneurship
The financial benefits of entrepreneurship can be substantial. Successful entrepreneurs can reap substantial profits from their businesses, which can translate into significant personal wealth. Additionally, entrepreneurs can benefit from high levels of equity in their businesses, which can increase in value as the business grows and becomes more successful. This equity can be converted into cash through the sale of the business or through the issuance of shares in the company.
Risk of financial loss
However, the potential for financial gain is accompanied by the risk of financial loss. Entrepreneurship is a high-risk venture, and the potential for failure is high. Businesses can fail for a variety of reasons, including lack of market demand, inadequate funding, or poor management. When a business fails, the entrepreneur can lose not only their investment, but also their reputation and credibility in the business community.
The role of risk management
Entrepreneurs must manage risk in order to maximize the potential for financial gain while minimizing the risk of financial loss. This involves a number of strategies, including conducting thorough market research, developing a solid business plan, securing adequate funding, and implementing effective risk management strategies. Entrepreneurs must also be prepared to adapt to changing market conditions and make difficult decisions in order to minimize the risk of failure.
In conclusion, the financial rewards of entrepreneurship can be substantial, but the potential for financial loss is also high. Entrepreneurs must weigh the potential risks and rewards of their venture before deciding to pursue it, and must implement effective risk management strategies in order to maximize the potential for financial gain while minimizing the risk of financial loss.
The role of hard work and dedication
Hard work and dedication play a crucial role in the financial rewards of entrepreneurship. The road to success is often paved with long hours, sleepless nights, and a relentless drive to make the business succeed. An entrepreneur must be willing to put in the effort to make their dreams a reality.
Entrepreneurs who are successful have a strong work ethic and are willing to put in the time and effort required to make their businesses succeed. They understand that there are no shortcuts to success and that it takes hard work and dedication to achieve their goals.
Hard work and dedication are also key factors in building a successful business. Entrepreneurs must be willing to put in the time and effort required to develop their business ideas, secure funding, and build a strong team. This requires a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Moreover, entrepreneurs must also be willing to adapt and pivot when necessary. The business landscape is constantly changing, and entrepreneurs must be willing to make changes and adjust their strategies in order to stay ahead of the competition. This requires a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication, but it is essential for long-term success.
In conclusion, hard work and dedication are essential for the financial rewards of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs must be willing to put in the time and effort required to make their businesses succeed, and they must be willing to adapt and pivot when necessary. The rewards of entrepreneurship are significant, but they require a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication.
Factors that affect the financial success of entrepreneurs
Industry and market trends
- Market demand: Understanding the needs and wants of the target market is crucial for entrepreneurs to create products or services that will be in high demand. If an entrepreneur can successfully identify and meet market demand, they are more likely to experience financial success.
- Market saturation: It is important for entrepreneurs to assess the level of competition in their industry. If the market is already saturated with similar products or services, it may be more difficult for a new entrepreneur to enter and achieve financial success.
- Technological advancements: The rapid pace of technological advancements can present both opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs. Those who can leverage technology to create innovative products or services may have a competitive advantage, but those who fail to adapt to new technologies may struggle to remain relevant.
- Government regulations: Government regulations can have a significant impact on the financial success of entrepreneurs. It is important for entrepreneurs to stay informed about changes in regulations and to ensure that their businesses are in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
- Economic conditions: Economic conditions such as recessions or economic booms can affect the financial success of entrepreneurs. During a recession, it may be more difficult for entrepreneurs to secure funding or find customers, while during an economic boom, there may be increased competition and higher costs.
- Globalization: Globalization has opened up new markets and opportunities for entrepreneurs, but it also means that they must compete with businesses from all over the world. Entrepreneurs must be prepared to adapt to different cultural norms and regulations when entering new international markets.
Timing and opportunity
In the world of entrepreneurship, timing and opportunity play a crucial role in determining the financial success of an entrepreneur. While some entrepreneurs may find success by starting a business in a well-established market, others may identify opportunities in emerging industries or by creating a new market altogether. In either case, it is essential for entrepreneurs to carefully consider the timing and opportunity when launching a new venture.
The importance of identifying the right time to start a business
Timing is a critical factor in the success of a new venture. Starting a business at the right time can give entrepreneurs a significant advantage over their competitors. For example, starting a ride-sharing business in the early 2000s would have been a much more favorable opportunity than starting one today, given the saturation of the market. Similarly, starting a business in a market that is experiencing a boom period can also provide significant opportunities for growth and profitability.
The role of opportunity in entrepreneurial success
Opportunity is another crucial factor in determining the financial success of an entrepreneur. Identifying a unique opportunity in the market can provide a significant competitive advantage over competitors. For example, the founders of Airbnb recognized an opportunity to provide an alternative to traditional hotel accommodations by leveraging the sharing economy. This opportunity allowed them to disrupt the hospitality industry and create a new market segment.
Balancing timing and opportunity
While timing and opportunity are both critical factors in entrepreneurial success, it is essential for entrepreneurs to strike a balance between the two. Rushing into a new venture without careful consideration of the market and competition can lead to failure. On the other hand, waiting too long to seize an opportunity can result in missed opportunities and lost revenue. Finding the right balance between timing and opportunity requires careful analysis of market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscapes.
In conclusion, timing and opportunity play a crucial role in determining the financial success of entrepreneurs. Identifying the right time to start a business and seizing unique opportunities can provide significant advantages over competitors. However, striking the right balance between the two is essential for entrepreneurs to achieve long-term success in the market.
Business model and strategy
The business model and strategy are critical factors that determine the financial success of entrepreneurs. A well-defined business model and strategy can help entrepreneurs to identify their target market, develop a unique value proposition, and create a competitive advantage. In contrast, a poorly defined business model and strategy can lead to a lack of focus, misallocation of resources, and an inability to compete effectively in the market.
A successful business model typically includes a clear understanding of the target market, the value proposition being offered, and the revenue streams that will be used to generate income. The business model should also be scalable, meaning that it can be easily adapted to accommodate growth and changing market conditions.
A well-defined strategy, on the other hand, should outline how the business will achieve its goals and objectives. This may include tactics such as marketing and advertising, product development, and partnership building. A successful strategy should also take into account the competitive landscape and identify opportunities for differentiation and innovation.
Overall, a strong business model and strategy can provide entrepreneurs with a clear roadmap for success, helping them to identify opportunities for growth and to navigate the challenges and risks associated with entrepreneurship.
Personal skills and qualities
Being an entrepreneur requires a unique set of personal skills and qualities that can greatly impact an individual’s financial success. While some of these traits may be innate, others can be developed over time with effort and practice. In this section, we will explore some of the key personal skills and qualities that can contribute to financial success in entrepreneurship.
- Risk tolerance: Entrepreneurship involves taking risks, and a high level of risk tolerance is often necessary to succeed. Risk tolerance refers to an individual’s willingness to take on risk and their ability to manage it effectively. Entrepreneurs who are comfortable taking calculated risks and are able to manage them successfully are more likely to achieve financial success.
- Resilience: Entrepreneurship can be a challenging and unpredictable journey, and resilience is crucial for overcoming obstacles and setbacks. Resilience refers to an individual’s ability to bounce back from failure and adapt to changing circumstances. Entrepreneurs who are resilient are better equipped to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and are more likely to achieve financial success.
- Self-awareness: Self-awareness is the ability to understand one’s own strengths, weaknesses, and emotions. It is a critical skill for entrepreneurs, as it allows them to identify their areas of expertise and areas for improvement. Self-awareness also helps entrepreneurs to manage their emotions and respond effectively to challenges and setbacks.
- Networking skills: Building a strong network of contacts and relationships is essential for entrepreneurial success. Networking skills refer to an individual’s ability to build and maintain relationships with others, both within and outside of their industry. Entrepreneurs who are skilled networkers are more likely to gain access to valuable resources, opportunities, and support.
- Leadership skills: Leadership skills are essential for entrepreneurs who are building and managing a team. Effective leaders inspire and motivate their team members, communicate a clear vision, and make sound decisions. Entrepreneurs who possess strong leadership skills are more likely to build a successful and profitable business.
Overall, the personal skills and qualities of an entrepreneur can have a significant impact on their financial success. By developing and leveraging these skills, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of achieving financial success while minimizing the risks associated with entrepreneurship.
Access to resources and funding
Importance of Access to Resources and Funding
Entrepreneurship often requires significant investments of time, money, and effort. Without access to adequate resources and funding, even the most innovative and well-planned ventures can falter. Thus, having access to resources and funding is critical for the success of an entrepreneurial venture.
Different Types of Funding Available for Entrepreneurs
There are several different types of funding available for entrepreneurs, including:
- Bootstrapping: This involves using personal savings or revenue from the business to finance growth.
- Venture Capital: This involves raising capital from firms or funds that invest in early-stage, emerging firms that are believed to have high growth potential, in exchange for equity.
- Angel Investors: These are wealthy individuals who provide capital to small, early-stage companies in exchange for ownership equity, or a convertible debt or preferred equity, or a combination of the above.
- Crowdfunding: This involves raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the internet.
- Bank Loans: These are loans provided by banks to entrepreneurs to start or grow their businesses.
Factors That Influence Access to Resources and Funding
Several factors can influence an entrepreneur’s ability to access resources and funding, including:
- Creditworthiness: Entrepreneurs with strong credit histories are more likely to be approved for loans and other forms of financing.
- Networking: Having a strong network of contacts can increase an entrepreneur’s chances of securing funding.
- Experience: Entrepreneurs with a track record of success are more likely to be able to secure funding.
- Business Plan: A well-written business plan can help entrepreneurs secure funding by demonstrating the viability of their venture.
- Industry and Market: Certain industries and markets may be more attractive to investors than others, making it easier for entrepreneurs in those sectors to secure funding.
In conclusion, access to resources and funding is critical for the success of an entrepreneurial venture. Entrepreneurs should be aware of the different types of funding available to them and should work to build a strong network of contacts, establish a track record of success, and develop a well-written business plan to increase their chances of securing funding.
Pros and cons of entrepreneurship
Pros of entrepreneurship
- Financial gain: Successful entrepreneurs can potentially earn substantial profits and become wealthy.
- Personal satisfaction: Pursuing one’s own passion and creating something of value can be deeply fulfilling.
- Autonomy: Entrepreneurs have the freedom to make their own decisions and shape their own destiny.
- Innovation: Entrepreneurship often involves developing new products, services, or business models that can disrupt markets and change the world for the better.
Cons of entrepreneurship
- Financial risk: Entrepreneurship involves significant financial risk, as startups are often susceptible to failure.
- High stress: The demands of running a business can be extremely stressful, and entrepreneurs must be prepared to face numerous challenges and setbacks.
- Time commitment: Building a successful business requires significant time and effort, often at the expense of personal and family life.
- Lack of security: Entrepreneurs may experience uncertainty about their financial future and the viability of their business.
Overall, while entrepreneurship offers numerous potential benefits, it is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs to carefully consider the risks and weigh the potential rewards against the potential costs.
Making an informed decision
When it comes to starting a business, making an informed decision is crucial to achieving financial success. This involves carefully considering the potential risks and rewards of entrepreneurship, as well as the feasibility of the business idea.
Some factors to consider when making an informed decision include:
- Industry trends and competition: It’s important to understand the current market conditions and the level of competition in the industry. This can help entrepreneurs identify potential opportunities for growth and differentiation.
- Business model and revenue streams: Entrepreneurs should carefully consider their business model and how they plan to generate revenue. This may involve exploring different pricing strategies, product offerings, or distribution channels.
- Financial projections and risk management: It’s important to have a clear understanding of the financial risks involved in starting a business, as well as the potential rewards. This may involve creating financial projections and developing a risk management plan to mitigate potential losses.
- Personal skills and experience: Entrepreneurs should also consider their own skills and experience, as well as any gaps in knowledge or expertise that may need to be addressed. This may involve seeking out mentorship or hiring additional team members with complementary skills.
Overall, making an informed decision is critical to the financial success of entrepreneurs. By carefully considering the potential risks and rewards of starting a business, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success and build a thriving, profitable enterprise.
Next steps for aspiring entrepreneurs
- Identify a market need:
- Conduct market research to identify a gap in the market
- Determine if the market is large enough to sustain a business
- Evaluate the competition and how to differentiate the business
- Develop a business plan:
- Define the business concept and value proposition
- Outline the target market and customer segments
- Establish the financial projections and funding requirements
- Identify the key personnel and their roles
- Secure funding:
- Evaluate different funding options, such as angel investors, venture capital, and bank loans
- Prepare a pitch deck and business plan to present to potential investors
- Consider crowdfunding or bootstrapping as alternative funding options
- Build a team:
- Hire employees or contractors with the necessary skills and experience
- Establish a strong company culture and values
- Provide training and development opportunities to employees
- Launch the business:
- Develop a marketing strategy to reach the target audience
- Establish partnerships and networks to support the business
- Monitor the financial performance and adjust the business strategy as needed
- Scale the business:
- Evaluate opportunities for growth and expansion
- Invest in technology and infrastructure to support growth
- Establish a process for continuous improvement and innovation
By following these next steps, aspiring entrepreneurs can increase their chances of financial success while mitigating the risks associated with entrepreneurship.
FAQs
1. Is entrepreneurship a path to wealth and financial success?
Entrepreneurship can indeed be a path to wealth and financial success, but it’s important to note that it’s not a guaranteed route. Success as an entrepreneur often depends on various factors, including the entrepreneur’s skills, experience, and the market demand for their product or service. However, with hard work, determination, and a bit of luck, entrepreneurship can provide significant financial rewards.
2. How much money can an entrepreneur make?
The amount of money an entrepreneur can make varies greatly depending on the success of their business. Some entrepreneurs earn modest salaries, while others earn millions or even billions of dollars. For example, tech entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg have become billionaires due to the success of their companies. However, it’s important to remember that the vast majority of entrepreneurs do not achieve such extreme levels of success.
3. What factors determine an entrepreneur’s financial success?
Several factors can influence an entrepreneur’s financial success, including the quality of their product or service, the effectiveness of their business model, their ability to secure funding, and their ability to manage risk. Additionally, factors such as market demand, competition, and economic conditions can also impact an entrepreneur’s financial success.
4. Is entrepreneurship risky?
Entrepreneurship is inherently risky, as it involves starting and running a business, which can be unpredictable and challenging. Many entrepreneurs take on significant financial risks, such as investing their own savings or taking out loans, to get their businesses off the ground. However, the potential rewards of entrepreneurship can make the risks worthwhile for some individuals.
5. What are the chances of success as an entrepreneur?
The chances of success as an entrepreneur vary greatly and depend on many factors, including the individual’s skills, experience, and the market demand for their product or service. According to some sources, about 20% of new businesses fail within the first year, and about half fail within the first five years. However, this doesn’t mean that entrepreneurship is not a viable career path. Many successful entrepreneurs have started and grown successful businesses despite the odds.
