Im Ja Choi, 64Jenkintown, Pa. Worked for: Penn Security Bank, as a vice president
Started in 2005: Penn Asian Senior Service, a non-profit that provides Asian seniors with home health care aides who speak their language.
A long-time volunteer on women's issues and local politics, Choi had a strong network of contacts that helped her raise the money to fund the business. Choi employs 270 people.
Startup costs: $70,000
Revenue in 2011: $5 million
Salary in 2011: $90,000
Her advice for you: "Use your network. I cashed in all my experience as a local volunteer to get grants and funding for my business."
NEXT: Buy a business that's up and running