This chapter chronicles early entrepreneurial efforts that challenged government dominance in spaceflight, paving the way for today’s commercial space sector. It begins with OTRAG, a German-based venture in the 1970s that pursued unconventional, low-cost rocket designs to democratize access to orbit. Although short-lived, OTRAG’s bold approach underscored the audacity of private space initiatives. Robert Truax’s “People’s Rocket” follows, championing civilian involvement in space exploration. Next, the chapter highlights Space Services Incorporated’s Conestoga I, the first privately funded rocket to reach space, proving the viability of private launch capabilities. Subsequent endeavors include AMROC’s Industrial Launch Vehicle, highlighting the ambition driving private-sector rocket propulsion and design innovation. Across the Atlantic, Britain’s HOTOL focused on single-stage-to-orbit technology, a testament to growing global commercial aspirations. Meanwhile, the air-launched Pegasus rocket of Orbital Sciences Corporation demonstrated flexibility and cost-effectiveness, and Sea Launch offered an international maritime platform for launching rockets from an ocean-based site. The chapter spotlights these visionaries and illustrates how cost reduction, technological experimentation, and international collaboration laid a foundation for the modern commercial space era. Their initiatives broke traditional barriers and opened opportunities for more diverse players to shape the final frontier.