This spunky Lee"s Summit company, known as Adams & Gabbert & Associates takes the field with the princely, post-modern monicker, a-g&a inc. It too has swum against the rip tide of the IT washout to post a 2,150% increase in revenue since 1999. This professional services firm specializes in consulting, project management and process analysis. Under the guidance of company president Jo Ann Gabbert, a-g&a inc. now has 22 employees and a revenue in excess of $2.25 million. The firm is strongly committed to helping its associates find a balance between their personal and professional lives.

1st Year

Although HRS Erase provides service throughout the Midwest, it is unlikely that the company will ever relocate away from the Kansas City area Says HRS Erase president, Kevin Murphy. "This is where I call home. It is part of who I am. I know its stability, affordability, Midwest work ethic, family values and quality of life." This for-profit corporation makes its money by helping its hospital clients resolve their unpaid invoices. In the process, it helps the hospital"s clients handle their debts. Last year, the gross revenues of the Independence-based company approached $3 million. The company has 66 dedicated employees and continues to add more.

1st Year

Founded as Inergy partners in 1996, this midtown Kansas City, Missouri company has mastered the art of acquisition to become one of the country"s fastest growing propane marketing and distribution firms. The company manages more than 100 retail operations primarily in the South and the Midwest and is becoming increasingly involved on the wholesale side as well. President and CEO John Sherman began his propane career nearly 20 years ago with local propane giant, Ferrellgas. Last year, Inergy had gross revenues in excess of $200 million. Inergy returns to Ingram"s top ten list after a number one ranking last year.

2nd Year