If you're stuck on how to start or grow your small business, getting your branding and brand identity right is key. For many small brands and startup businesses – especially those that want to stay small – the definition of growth, impact, and success will depend on what their goals are.

From focusing on direct consumer strategies to reach their target market and potential customers to trying out interactive marketing, the successful brand examples we've highlighted in this article have all pushed their boundaries and come up with the goods – most while remaining independent, keeping it small, staying true to their ethos, and focusing on brand consistency.