The Wooster Brush Company had been providing customers with quality products for 10 years before the Civil War, growing alongside the country. That's a long time. Developing products that meet the needs of multiple generations of customers requires companies to be innovative and resourceful. Even when the odds of success seem to be fading fast, nimble organizations remain united in moving forward. Throughout its 175-year history, The Wooster Brush Company has “changed the game” by introducing unique products that have transformed how DIYers and Pros use paintbrushes and rollers.

DAP’s story began in 1865, when Robert H. Dicks and Elmer Wiggin started producing and packaging sealing wax for food canning in a Dayton, Ohio garage. At a time when preserving food safely was a household necessity, their product solved an everyday challenge and quickly became essential across America.

Over 80 years ago, Quikrete® developed a pre-blended concrete mix—this innovative product modernized the building industry. It gave contractors and homeowners the ability to work smarter and build faster.

Midwest Fasteners is a family-owned business started by Grandpa (Fred) DeVries. Always a good businessman, he did his homework and learned everything he could about the industry. He understood the types of fasteners retailers needed to stock to keep their customers coming back. Grandpa Fred’s hard work paid off. Fifty-eight years later, Midwest Fasteners operates based on Grandpa Fred’s principles and vision.

Operating a successful business helps him understand the importance of sharing information, networking, and supporting an innovative business community. In this conversation with our editor, David discusses the challenges and high points of his entrepreneurial journey.