FedEx does more than serve small businesses. It helps create them.

Nick Ciardiello is one of thousands of independent contractors who pick up, transport and deliver packages for FedEx Ground and its residential service, FedEx Home Delivery.

The FedEx Ground business model allows the Woodbridge, N.J., contractor to be his own boss — and a successful small business. Ciardiello owns 16 trucks and operates 10 routes. He hires the workers he wants — a diverse group of 19 employees — while having one of the world's best known brand names behind him. He also benefits from the FedEx global sales force, which steadily increases the number of packages he delivers. This can make his routes more valuable every year, since FedEx pays him based on volume as well as reliable performance.

This opportunity appeals to entrepreneurs who are willing to make the investment to get started in the business. In addition to the initial acquisition fee for the route, FedEx Ground contractors pay for their own trucks, insurance, uniforms, fuel and maintenance. And they're responsible for serving their routes safely and efficiently.

While it requires a lot of hard work, it can be a good long-term investment. It's not uncommon for FedEx Ground contractors to resell the rights to their routes at an attractive profit. Or, like Ciardiello, to continue to grow their business by carrying out their duties with the reliability and spirit the world expects from someone in a FedEx uniform.

"The best part about it is being the boss," Ciardiello said. "I can still climb into a truck and handle my share of stops when I have to, but working with FedEx Ground has given me the opportunity to become a total manager."

fedex.com/us/careers/independentcontractors.html