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The rise of the freelancer economy has gained momentum, and with it are many lucrative success stories. Since May 2015, 15.5 million people in the U.S. were self-employed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Another study says that by 2020, more than 40% of the American workers will be working independently.

Several trends pointing are leading to its growth: advances in personal technology allowing for remote work, more people seeking a better work- life balance, and more co-working spaces allowing for community, resources and collaboration.

Here’s a look at one-person small business success stories and other independent jobs that are netting high income, fueling the growth of the high income freelance economy.

Allen Walton, Ecommerce Store Owner and Internet Marketer
Allen Walton was working for $11 an hour in a retail store that sold security cameras for $11 an hour, but used his knowledge to launch an online spy camera store for less than $1,000. To gain more customers, he researched search engine marketing (SEO) strategies and launched a Google Adwords campaign. In his first year, his projected revenue was $1 million.

Jeffrey J. Rinz, Founder of foodWorks
Jeffrey Rinz was selling industrial equipment that processes grain in Latin America, but realized he could be conducting the same business from home. So he did. Today, he says his revenues from his sales are in the six-to-seven figure range and his business is still based at home in Cary, N.C.

Amanda Hocking, Self-Published Writer
In 2010, young adult Paranormal writer Amanda Hocking needed $300 to see the Muppets exhibit in Chicago so she self-published her book on Amazon. Her ebook became an overnight sensation. In 20 months, she sold more than 1.5 million ebooks and made $2.5 million, Sheince then, she has since received to be able to see the Muppets exhibit in Chicago — she has since made millions in ebook sales and a received additional lucrative seven-digit book publishing dealsdeals with traditional publishers.

Justin Gott, Entrepreneur
Justin Gott has created two $1 million online businesses — an eBook company and a health supplements store – with no employees other than a partner. He promoted his eBook through Internet marketing campaigns and within a year was making $1 million. He dissolved the company after his partner wanted to pursue other opportunities. In 2013, Gott launched Patriot Health Institute, building the online solo operation to $1 million in revenue through Internet marketing before selling it in 2014.