50 Most Successful Small Businesses to Start in America

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40. Wineries
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +15.5%
> Total establishments, 2021: 4,284
> Total employees, 2021: 57,939
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $57,357

The demand for wine has been on the rise, driven by increasing consumer interest in wine culture, appreciation, and consumption. Wine has become more popular among diverse demographics, leading to a higher demand for wineries and their products. The number of businesses in the industry rose 15.5% from 3,708 in 2017 to 4,284 in 2021.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be wine tourism and experiential travel. Wine tourism has gained traction as a popular form of experiential travel, with individuals seeking immersive experiences at wineries. Visitors enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and events, leading to increased demand for wineries as destinations and attractions.

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39. Interior Design Services
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +16.2%
> Total establishments, 2021: 15,435
> Total employees, 2021: 46,872
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $63,738

The demand for interior design services has been fueled by rising consumer spending on home improvement projects. Homeowners are investing in enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of their living spaces, leading to an increased demand for interior design services. The number of businesses in the industry rose 16.2% from 13,284 in 2017 to 15,435 in 2021, among the fastest expansions of any industry.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be growing awareness of interior design. There has been a growing awareness and appreciation for the role of interior design in creating visually pleasing and functional spaces. Consumers are seeking professional assistance to transform their homes, offices, and commercial spaces, driving the demand for interior design services.

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38. Window Treatment Stores
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +16.3%
> Total establishments, 2021: 2,116
> Total employees, 2021: 7,961
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $47,907

The demand for window treatment stores has been driven by the growing trend of home renovation and remodeling. Homeowners seeking to update their living spaces and improve the aesthetic appeal often include window treatments as part of their projects, boosting the demand for these specialized stores. The number of businesses in the industry rose 16.3% from 1,820 in 2017 to 2,116 in 2021, far greater than the national business establishment growth of 3.7%.

Another factor behind growth in the industry may be growing product variety and innovation, including new materials, designs, and technologies to meet the evolving consumer demands. This increased availability of diverse options has supported the growth of window treatment stores.

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37. Scenic and Sightseeing Transportation, Water
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +16.6%
> Total establishments, 2021: 2,119
> Total employees, 2021: 9,841
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $59,139

The growth of the scenic and sightseeing transportation, water industry has been driven by the increasing number of tourists and travelers seeking unique and memorable experiences. Sightseeing tours and water-based attractions have become popular among both domestic and international visitors, contributing to the demand for scenic and sightseeing transportation. The number of businesses in the industry rose 16.6% from 1,817 in 2017 to 2,119 in 2021, far greater than the national business establishment growth of 3.7%.

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36. Recreational Goods Rental
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +17.0%
> Total establishments, 2021: 2,740
> Total employees, 2021: 12,805
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $48,588

The demand for recreational goods rental has been driven by the growing popularity of outdoor recreational activities. More individuals and families are engaging in activities such as camping, hiking, boating, and cycling, creating a higher demand for rental equipment. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 17.0% from 2,341 in 2017 to 2,740 in 2021.

Also, the recreational goods rental industry has witnessed an expansion in the availability and variety of rental inventory. Rental providers have invested in acquiring a diverse range of equipment, including camping gear, water sports equipment, bicycles, and more, to cater to the growing demand and offer a wider selection to customers.