The third annual list highlights Arizona entrepreneurs who established and operate !successful ventures based in the state. This year’s honorees span a variety of fields, !including retail, technology, financial services, marketing, transportation and “green” energy

See all 35 entrepreneur picks

The desire to be one’s own boss is a common reason entrepreneurs say they went into business for themselves.

But family also is a huge motivator, as shown by several of the 35 individuals on The Arizona Republic’s 2009 list of the state’s top young entrepreneurs.

The annual list highlights entrepreneurs who have started successful ventures in the state. To qualify, candidates must be 35 or younger and be involved in establishing and operating companies based in Arizona.

This year’s candidates span across retail, technology, financial services, marketing, transportation and “green” energy. Many said family ties played a major role in their decision to start their own business.
• Online retail innovator Heather Russell said she viewed entrepreneurship as a way to give back to her family.

Russell’s company, Rinkya Inc., employs her mother, brother and sister.
• Brothers Arthur and Paul Kenjora said being the children of Polish immigrants instilled in them the importance of bootstrapping and relying on their talents to survive.

The Arizona State University graduates have collaborated on various Web-based ventures and today are busy running their own tech startups.
• Family man Aaron Sinykin left a job in corporate finance four years ago to open a string of Subway franchises.

Sinykin wanted the ability to provide for his family and the flexibility to experience significant milestones in his children’s lives.

Published in Arizona Republic Newspaper and azcentral.com Oct. 25, 2009 12:00 AM:

http://www.azcentral.com/business/articles/2009/10/23/20091023biz-35entrepreneurs1025Intro.html