"More than anything else, Companion just encompasses the entrepreneurial spirit," said Chris Dallin, Davis Chamber president. "It's what America is all about — there comes a time when you jump over the edge, or you don't, and it takes so much intestinal fortitude to make that decision to jump. They did it, and they did it incredibly well."

Tiley attributes the company's success to its people, product and an eye fixed on the future.

"Our goals are very simplistic," he said. "We want to have a work environment that fosters creativity and innovation, which is also fun. I know it sounds corny, but it's our number one priority. We want growth at a comfortable pace, a pace we can control. I want the company to be profitable, and to share that profit with each of our employees."

The venture capital firm — which Tiley did not name — had a five-year exit plan. Tiley has other ideas.

"Theirs was five years, mine is death," he laughs. "I'm 47 years old, and I plan to be here for many, many, many years."

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