GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - As many small companies struggle to stay business, local business owners find success.

"We went from 4,700 square feet to 11,000 square feet," said Jerry Stehman, owner of Jerry's Outdoor Sports. "Obviously you need more personnel to cover that, and we've added seven people."

The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce recognized 13 small businesses that have expanded and added jobs.

"My current office manager came in a year ago, and I said if I made a move, I would hire her, and I did," said Stehman.

For those that believe the small business world is going out of business, highly successful CEO's think otherwise.

"Small businesses, that's where the entrepreneurs are, that's where the new ideas and new things come from," said Jake Jabs, President and CEO of American Furniture Warehouse. "Small business is really the backbone of America."

Jerry's employee John Dominguez had previously worked for a cooperation, and he was happy about the move to the "small world."

"I love it here," he said. "It's a lot less stress, it's a lot of fun working with these guys, and the customers are great, too."

Jerry knows what it takes to be successful and stay in business. After years of keeping an eye on his (current) property, he made the investment, and it has paid off tremendously.

"We're probably up at least 30, pushing 40 to 45% over last year's sales," said Stehman.

Success can happen if entrepreneurs are not afraid to try, said Jabs.

"Don't be afraid to take chances, take risks," said Jabs. "I took a lot of risks all my life."