As the approach of 2012 inspires entrepreneurs to launch new ventures and start the next chapter in their business plans, Entrepreneur magazine reveals 10 emerging markets and business opportunities ready to be seized. At a time of high market saturation, these sectors offer opportunities still on the upward trend for business owners looking to make their mark, expand their agendas, and position their companies for growth.

“It’s time for business owners to step back, refocus and take a look at their companies with a fresh perspective,” says Amy Cosper, VP and editor in chief of Entrepreneurmagazine. “The top trends are indicators of business strength and areas of opportunity. Examining how they are working for others today can influence how other entrepreneurs can adapt and enhance their companies for the future.”

Entrepreneurship has never been more practical, either. According to the Kauffman Foundation, 565,000 new businesses were created in 2010–the most in 15 years–as many new ‘treps were forced into it by the downturn. “Young people know that there’s a high likelihood they’ll have to make it on their own,” says Thomas Knapp, associate director at the University of Southern California’s Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies. USC has seen a 13.2 percent year-over-year increase in students taking entrepreneurship courses at the school.

The list looks at the companies leading the way by demonstrating how business in these areas is being done:

1. Decision Engines – Discovery fueling invention and purchases
2. Collaborative Commerce – Community sharing, bartering, lending, renting and gifting
3. Customization – Uber personalization
4. True Mobility – Leaving the PC behind
5. Creativity – Inspiration from the Everyman
6. Urban Farming – Local, local, local
7. Gamification – Revolutionizing customer engagement
8. Design – Pretty goods for the masses
9. Extreme Fitness – Boot camps and mud runs to beat workout boredom
10. Jobs – Rescuing the unemployed

*BONUS: Trend to Watch: Unmarrieds – Catering to Singles

Read the full article: 10 Hot Startup Sectors for New Business Ideas in 2012