#13: Subway

In 1965, 17-year-old Fred DeLuca had a dream of becoming a doctor—but first, he needed tuition money. With a $1,000 loan from family friend Dr. Peter Buck, he opened Pete’s Super Submarines in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

What started as a way to fund medical school quickly took on a life of its own, as their fresh, made-to-order sandwiches gained popularity. Seeing the potential, DeLuca and Buck formed Doctor’s Associates to oversee expansion. Rebranded as Subway, their small sandwich shop became a global giant, proving that one loan, a good idea, and great food can build an empire.