Andrew Leatherby worked his way from the ground up and bought the company he now operates.

Special Effex resurfaces and decorates concrete.

Tango K is an independent-artist boutique with handmade art, pottery, handbags and jewelry.

Helm Publishing publishes new and emerging authors.

Eli Nicolosi graduated from Columbia School of Art and Design and started his own illustration and design company.

Sophia Ramdass owns Professional Tutoring Inc., a one-on-one tutoring service.

Heather Woodward runs a portrait studio, Heather Woodward Photography, through her home.

Scooper Heros Pet Services pet sits, walks dogs, bathes dogs and picks up their waste.

Smith & Stell Home Decor in Loves Park brings some of the Chicago urban decorating style to Rockford.