Where are they now?

Dozens of aspiring entrepreneurs will vie for a share of $800,000 in seed money at this month's Rice Business Plan Competition. More

After winning competitions with their business plans, these 7 ventures turned their paper visions into thriving companies. More

Follow our 10-point guide to landing the right investors. More

Do good and make money: That's the goal of these six startups vying for the Social Venture Award and $10,000 in seed money. More

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Making cake in a sour economy
The Cheesecake Factory created smaller portions to survive the downturn. Play
Dream factory
An old Detroit car plant has become a creative hive for upstart businesses. More
Hemp king returns
A breeder of award-winning marijuana seeds is following the money and heading to the U.S. More
Training to quit
Derek Christian pays to train his employees for new careers. More
Luck of the Amish
Most small businesses die within five years, but Amish businesses have a survival rate north of 90%. More
Franchise data
The 10 most popular franchise brands over the past decade -- and their failure rates. More
5 fading icons
These firms are the last left in America making iconic products now in their twilight. More