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Colton Sprague

Grade: 12

Location: Syracuse, Nebraska

Business Name:

CSB Landscaping

Revenue: $40,000

At just 18 years old, Colton Sprague has built a thriving lawn care and landscaping business in Syracuse, Nebraska. With $40,000 in revenue last year and ambitious plans to hit $100,000 this year, Colton is a shining example of grit, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.


From mowing lawns with a push mower in sixth grade to managing commercial contracts and expanding into landscaping, Colton’s journey shows how passion, persistence, and a bias toward action can transform dreams into reality.


Starting Small but Dreaming Big


Colton’s entrepreneurial journey began at 12 years old with a push mower borrowed from his parents. Inspired by the allure of success—big houses, cool cars, and financial freedom—he went door to door in his small Nebraska town, handing out homemade business cards and facing rejection with determination.


“I learned early that if it wasn’t hard, everyone would be doing it,” Colton says. Despite a daunting 1 in 50 conversion rate in the beginning, he stuck with it, knowing that every ‘yes’ brought him closer to his goals.


Turning Points and Growth Milestones


Over the years, Colton reinvested his earnings to upgrade his equipment, including purchasing a zero-turn mower—a pivotal moment in scaling his business. “That mower allowed me to tackle acreages I couldn’t have handled with a push mower,” he recalls.


Another major milestone came when Colton landed his first commercial client, an assisted living facility. Using a $50 contract template he purchased online, he navigated the bidding process and secured the deal. “I didn’t charge enough that first year, but it taught me a lot about pricing and negotiation,” he says.


Expanding Services and Seasonality


What started as a simple lawn mowing service has grown into a year-round operation that includes snow removal, fertilization, and large-scale landscaping projects like patios and retaining walls. “Mowing offers predictable, recurring revenue, but landscaping brings bigger ticket items with higher margins,” Colton explains.


While Nebraska winters can be unpredictable, Colton has adapted by introducing monthly snow removal contracts, ensuring consistent income even during milder winters.


Learning Through YouTube University


Colton credits much of his success to self-directed learning. “I didn’t know who to ask for advice, so I turned to YouTube,” he says. Channels like Mike Andes, Brian’s Lawn Maintenance, and Stanley Dirt Monkey taught him everything from pricing and marketing to advanced landscaping techniques.


He also invests in formal courses, such as the Hardscape Academy, to acquire specialized skills. “I’ve learned that investing in yourself and your education is the fastest way to grow,” he adds.


The Art of Pricing and Managing a Team


Early in his career, Colton charged $20 per lawn, regardless of size—a strategy he now laughs at. Today, he uses software to calculate rates based on time, equipment, and overhead. “I aim for $70 per hour, which ensures I cover costs and make a profit,” he explains.


Colton has also learned the challenges of managing seasonal employees. From hiring friends to training them in the art of trimming, he’s developed a keen eye for identifying team members with strong work ethic and common sense.


Balancing Work, School, and Life


As a senior at Syracuse High School and a multi-sport athlete, Colton juggles a packed schedule. He works 20-30 hours a week during peak seasons while maintaining his grades and excelling in sports. “It’s a lot, but I still make time for friends and being a kid,” he says.


Plans for the Future


After graduation, Colton is debating between attending a local college to network and learn or focusing solely on growing his business. He also works part-time at a local landscaping company to gain industry insights he can apply to his own ventures.


In the next five years, Colton dreams of scaling his business to include large construction projects, ultimately becoming a major contractor in his region.


Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


For young people looking to start their own businesses, Colton emphasizes the importance of action. “Just get started,” he says. “Don’t let the fear of not knowing everything hold you back. You’ll figure it out as you go.”


A Formidable Future


With a $1,000 grant from the Formidable Fellowship, Colton plans to invest in equipment for expanding his landscaping services. “This grant will help me take on larger projects and continue growing my business,” he says.


From a sixth-grader with a borrowed mower to a young entrepreneur running a $40,000 business, Colton Sprague’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and relentless ambition. We’re proud to support him and can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next.


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