Kian Salehi, co-founder of Bite Squad, Gift Squad

At first glance, Salehi and his Minneapolis-based company Kasa Capital are purveyors of e-commerce, but he said their high-tech, interactive services are more about building logistics. What started out as a restaurant delivery service has already expanded to flowers and gifts and will eventually grow to grocery delivery as well.

What happened: Sales increased by more than 50 percent in 2014. Bite Squad expanded to Seattle in March and Las Vegas in September. In Minneapolis, Gift Squad and a liquor delivery partnership with Surdyk's debuted in September. Next year, apps will be introduced for iOS and Android use, and possible expansion in Texas, Arizona and Ohio. Salehi said he's keeping a close eye on national competitors DoorDash and Caviar.