"Laura is an amazing teacher. Her knowledge, passion, experience, and patience are all critical factors in helping others understand all that goes into starting a business. It is not enough to have an idea; it is necessary to have someone available to help fine tune ideas, to narrow a focus, to point out all of the details that may be overlooked in the process, and Laura is the person to help do this. As she taught my students about creating a business plan and the varied aspects that go into this process, it was amazing to see the enthusiasm grow inside of each individual, enthusiasm as well as a confidence that they could one day achieve their dreams. For anyone who has a dream of starting a business and is seeking assistance in the process, I highly recommend Laura Thorson and Maple Ridge Consulting, LLC for the work. I can say with complete confidence, that under Laura’s guidance the seeds of your small business will begin to grow and blossom."

-Katherine Whisitt
Director of TRIO Upward Bound
Northeast Iowa Community College