I have identified a problem in the business and owned it. I can't go into detail but it requires maintainence and constant change to keep up with demand. I have documented, created training material, organized my own sprints, wrote AC, coordinated with designers, organized QA, and consistently deliver on time. Oh and I write the software too. Then I create BI reports to show the results of the changes. What are my options as the company grows? Did I screw myself because I am a 1 man show? Am I doing too much for my full stack title? Eventually this area will need a department, I've asked a few times what the future holds but no concrete response. I feel like my compensation is limited because I started too low - I started in the Midwest. A title may help me move horizontally one day.
You did exactly what you should do. You have made yourself irreplaceable. Now apply to other companies and get that sweet retention
Retention meaning getting an offer from another company and hoping the current one will match or beat?
Usually beat. And yeah, it's informally called a retention bonus.