Here's how 13 savvy entrepreneurs got their start—and how you can do the same.

 


Of all of the types of companies you could start, which sounds like the most fun?

Adventure Travel

Pros: You get to see the world.

Cons: Hiking Machu Picchu becomes just another day at work.

Restaurant Chain

Pros: Free lunch!

Cons: The customer is always right.

Franchiser

Pros: People do the growing for you.

Cons: Hand holding.

Beverage Company

Pros: You don't need a lot of capital.

Cons: You do need a product with a long shelf life.

Aerospace Company

Pros: The sky is literally the limit.

Cons: Government red tape.

Software Company

Pros: The payoff can be big.

Cons: Development time.

T-shirt Company

Pros: You can wear a T-shirt to work.

Cons: People will try to rip off your designs.

Beauty Company

Pros: People love to help beauty companies -- for free.

Cons: Stiff competition.

Advertising Company

Pros: You're in the business of brainstorming.

Cons: Picky clients.