(FORTUNE Small Business) – As an American Express Small Business cardholder, you have been identified as one of America's leading entrepreneurs. In fact, you are one of a million select owners or partners of small to medium-sized growth-minded businesses. And it is for precisely that reason that you receive Fortune Small Business--the only business magazine created exclusively for independent and successful small business owners. A subscription to FSB is a unique privilege of your American Express Business membership.

A Powerful Partnership Small and mid-sized companies are the growth engine of the American economy. In recognition of that, American Express forged a partnership with Time Inc., America's foremost magazine publisher, to create a magazine specifically for you. FSB delivers the same caliber editorial, insight, and analysis as Fortune, its sister publication and the most trusted name in business journalism.

FSB captures the essence of small business today, with inside access to the minds and practices of the world's smartest entrepreneurs. Compelling channels of information, news, and resources keep small business leaders connected to a community of their peers--and equipped for growth and prosperity.

Inspire, Entertain, Inform In these challenging economic times, this issue on "How We Got Started" will inspire, entertain, and inform. Some of the best-known people in the world of business--the founders of such household names as FedEx, Staples, and Dell--reveal the risks they took and the rewards they reaped. These business leaders are innovative, they are successful, and, most important, they are just like you--entrepreneurs with a great idea who started small and followed their dream for growth and success.

Warm regards, HUGH WILEY Publisher