Ann-Marie Stephens, 53Richmond, Va. Worked For: Circuit City, as a senior vice president
Started in 2010: Precise Portions, a business that manufactures dinnerware to help facilitate healthy eating among diabetics.
Many of Stephens' family members suffer from the disease, and talking to them gave her the idea for her product.
Startup costs: $50,000
Revenue in 2011: $30,000
Salary in 2011: $0
Her advice for you: "Look at the intersection between your personal life and your professional interests. If your business is personal, then failing won't be an option."
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