America's favorite businesses

Seeking to make a trip to the doctor less stressful for her young patients, Dr. Amy Baxter, a pediatrician and pain researcher, launched pain relief product company Buzzy4Shots in 2006.

Three years later, she unveiled a line of reusable devices for kids and adults that uses an ice pack and vibrations to help dull the pain caused by shots, aches and injuries. "Pain is ignored by the medical community more than we like," said Baxter.

Biggest business challenge: "Balancing my own fear of risk while supporting my passion," said Baxter. "It's hampered us and we haven't expanded the way that we should."

Best advice: "Don't be secretive with your ideas," said Baxter. "Put your product on Craigslist, on eBay. See if the interest is there from people other than your close family and friends."

What she plans to do with the grant money: Baxter wants to assemble a design team, focus on packaging and marketing and "move the company out of my basement."