Locations
Current Locations
Location |
Type |
Day of Week |
|
|---|---|---|---|
LocationColorado Springs |
TypeIn-Person |
Day of WeekTuesday |
|
LocationDigital |
TypeLive Digital |
Day of WeekTuesday / Thursday |
|
LocationNorthern Colorado |
TypeHybrid |
Day of WeekMonday / Tuesday |
|
LocationSouth Denver |
TypeHybrid |
Day of WeekTuesday / Wednesday |
|
Types
- In-Person – Students attend all classes physically at our Colorado Springs campus. Ideal for families seeking hands-on learning, social engagement, and face-to-face mentorship.
- Live Digital – Students participate synchronously in real-time via Zoom. All instruction happens live, allowing remote learners to fully engage with teachers and classmates—no pre-recorded content.
- Hybrid – A blend of online and on-site learning. Students join digitally for some sessions and attend in-person for others—perfect for families needing flexibility while still valuing personal connection.
What students will learn
We believe everyone should at least explore owning their own business. Of course, it is not for everyone, but it should be explored before deciding. The potential lifestyle and financial rewards are tremendous, all while having control of your destiny.
Intro to Business
Creating a Product
Sales & Marketing
Money & Financials
Building a Team
Scaling a Business
Fall 2025 Program Guide
Download the Fall 2025 Program Guide for more information about the enrichment program.
I first met Chris (founder of Teen Business Academy) when he coached one of my sons almost 20 years ago. We became immediate friends and eventually business partners. I love the idea of Chris combining his passion for coaching, impacting the next generation and entrepreneurship.
Vance Brown
Co-Founder of The Classical Academy, Bear Trap Ranch and Exponential Impact
Chris has a brilliant mind for business and is able to see what others can’t see. Every time I speak with him I walk away with a new way of looking at our business challenges. Whenever I need a fresh idea or out of the box thinking, I go to Chris!
Mano Watsa
Owner of PGC Basketball
Transform education into real-world success
Traditional education often falls short in preparing students for the challenges of entrepreneurship, putting them at a disadvantage.
Teen Business Academy bridges this gap, equipping students with the real-world skills they need to thrive.
By the time a student finishes the program they will:
Our Values
Character Development
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We empower students to develop strong moral character, ethical decision-making skills, and a dedication to integrity, inspiring them to lead with purpose and make a lasting positive impact in their personal and professional lives.
Financial Literacy
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We provide students with the financial knowledge, tools, and entrepreneurial mindset they need to understand and manage resources effectively, equipping them to make informed financial decisions and build sustainable businesses.
Community Impact & Responsibility
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Through engaging, real-world experiences, we teach students to solve problems ethically and contribute positively to their communities, fostering a sense of social responsibility and purpose-driven innovation.
Personal Growth & Self-Discipline
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We instill habits of self-discipline, accountability, and lifelong learning in our students, empowering them to approach every challenge with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions:
So, what is a “teen” business exactly?
At Teen Business Academy, we focus on businesses that teens can start with low risk and the potential for significant earnings. Examples include service-based ventures like lawn care or landscaping, mastering and selling a specific skill, or launching creative side hustles. Throughout the program, we’ll explore hundreds of business ideas and interview dozens of successful entrepreneurs, providing real-world insights and inspiration. In addition to entrepreneurial knowledge, students will develop character traits such as initiative, responsibility, and perseverance—essential qualities for success in both business and life.
What makes this course unique?
Unlike college programs that often focus on theory, this program emphasizes practical, hands-on experience. Students will learn from incredible, industry expert guest speakers—entrepreneurs who have built businesses from the ground up—and from lead instructor Chris Coughlin, who has started, invested in, and coached over 100 startups. By the end of the course, each student will have developed a business plan, built a website, and either launched a business or created a clear, actionable path to entrepreneurship. Along the way, they will also cultivate essential character traits such as resilience, responsibility, and confidence—skills that will serve them in all aspects of life.
Where will the instruction take place?
This isn’t your typical classroom experience! Our primary location is in Central/Northern Colorado Springs at Mountain Springs Church, but we also incorporate off-site visits/field trips to local businesses for hands-on learning and lessons from other successful owners. All times and locations will be communicated in advance to accommodate your family’s schedule.
Will there be homework?
What if my student doesn’t want to become an entrepreneur?
Even if your student doesn’t plan to start a business, this program offers valuable insights and skills. Understanding entrepreneurship fosters critical thinking, creativity, self-reliance, and character development—building a strong foundation for success in any path they choose, both personally and professionally.
Is this course only for teen-aged students?
Yes, this program is specifically designed for junior high and high school students, typically ranging from 6th to 12th grade. The curriculum is tailored to meet the developmental and educational needs of this age group, focusing on entrepreneurial skills, leadership, character development, and personal growth during these formative years.
Students’ siblings of any age may watch the online classes, though, and families have access to the on-demand online content anytime.
How is the program adapted for different grade levels?
At Teen Business Academy, our instruction is designed to be engaging and understandable for all ages. While all students learn the same foundational material, our expert instructors personalize the experience through age-appropriate group projects. Students are paired with peers of similar grade levels, and projects are tailored to ensure they can apply the lessons in ways that match their developmental stage. This ensures that every student, whether in 6th grade or 12th, can fully grasp the concepts and grow their entrepreneurial and leadership skills.
