Family-owned businesses are the backbone of our economy. They range from small businesses to major corporations, and make up 35% of Fortune 500 companies. Together, these family firms are a powerhouse for employment, accounting for 78% of all new job creation.Luckily, you don’t have to be a member of the family to work for a family-owned business. Between 10 and 15% of these businesses are now managed by non-family executives.