Eds. David Lester, Beth Bishop. Do you dream of starting a business, but are too nervous to take the leap during a recession? It seems even more risky and difficult than normal. But you may be surprised to hear that many big businesses did just that - names such as Tesco, Argos, Foxtons, Burger King, Penguin, Oakley and Microsoft. So how did they start-up? We profile 20 business founders who started successful businesses during a recession - and thrived. They tell why they took that first step, the unique challenges they faced and how they grew and became established. Their exceptional business stories provide inspiration how to: Come up with the initial idea for a business; Spot new opportunities; Secure funds from a bank or investor; Take advantage of lack of competition; Use persistence and hard work to succeed, despite the odds. Packed with inspirational stories and sound business advice, these stories give even the most cautious entrepreneur the confidence to start their business despite the recession.