Elgin

Joining the Starbucks Parade

Many small companies have borrowed strategies from Starbucks in hopes of replicating the java king's success. Here are four such businesses: "...  Read more

Choosing a Web Hosting Service

A guide for small-business owners to selecting the right Web-hosting service, including a list of questions to ask.  Read more

Lessons From a Soloist Who Reached the Inc. 500 List

These lessons may help your one-person business grow -- and make the annual list of the Inc. 500. How can a soloist surpass much ...  Read more

You Had Your Chance!

Some of the best ideas are those offered by employees to employers. And some of the best companies are born when those employers say no.  Read more

The Years of Living Dangerously

The story of how a small group of pharmacies has survived one economic plague after another over the past 25 years.  Read more

The Copycat: The Next Starbucks

Not only is imitation the sincerest form of flattery, but it may also be the easiest way to make a buck.  Read more

The Private 500 represent 44 states. Geographically, the West wins again on the strength of California's 84 companies -- more than twice as many as any ot...  Read more

The Inc. 500

Note: This table may be divided, and additional information on a particular entry may appear on more than one screen. Sales growth 1980-84 ...  Read more