Small Business Development Center
Meet Our Consultants
Business experts to help you along your journey
Regional Office
Mike Heen
- Regional Director
- Deep expertise in commercial and agricultural lending, specializing in SBA, commercial real estate, and C&I financing.
- Strategic problem solver and trusted advisor, delivering creative, data-driven solutions to help borrowers navigate complex financing challenges.
- Proven leader and relationship builder, fostering strong partnerships across banking, businesses, and economic development agencies.
Consultants
Berny Berger
- Business Consultant
- Over 25 years trusted of business consulting, supporting entrepreneurs and organizations at every stage of growth.
- Versatile expertise in crafting impactful business plans and precise financial projections.
- Extensive knowledge of finance and lending programs, helping businesses secure the funding they need to succeed.
Barry Kirchoff
- Business Consultant
- 20+ years of SBDC consulting experience paired with the leadership and discipline of a retired U.S. Army Reserve veteran, dedicated to supporting current and former service members in achieving their business goals.
- Specialized expertise in startup assistance, cash flow management, business plan and financial projection preparation, and operational strategy development.
- Certified in Global Trade and Economic Development, bringing a broad perspective to business growth and expansion opportunities.
Pam Thomsen
- Business Consultant
- "She is a manic on a mission to help small business start, expand and grow."
- Broad expertise in loan packaging, business planning, financial analysis, and cash flow management.
- CPA and Certified Economic Development Finance Professional (CEDFP), combining financial acumen with strategic development insight.
Mike Ricart
- Business Consultant
- 25+ years of operational leadership experience in the retail sector, bringing real-world expertise to every client interaction.
- Trusted advisor to aspiring entrepreneurs, providing accurate and timely guidance through every phase of the startup journey.
- Equally skilled in supporting service-based and brick-and-mortar business models, helping owners build strong, sustainable operations.
Lisa Maurer
- Business Consultant
- 35+ years of business banking experience serving companies across a wide range of industries.
- Expert in financial feasibility analysis and financing preparation, helping businesses secure the capital they need to grow.
- Deep knowledge of state and federal loan and economic development programs, providing clients with access to the right funding opportunities.
Ahmed Mohidin
- Business Consultant
- Business professional specializing in startup and growth strategies, helping entrepreneurs build strong foundations for success.
- Expert in financial planning and projections, access to capital, business planning, and bookkeeping training, providing comprehensive support at every stage.
- Extensive knowledge of digital tools and AI integration for small businesses, with ASBDC AI & Data Analytics Certification.
Hannah Bous
- Business Consultant
- Marketing specialist with a focus on branding and logo design, helping businesses stand out and build strong identities.
- Extensive experience in retail store management and operations, bringing practical insights to business strategy.
- Expert photographer and e-commerce specialist, skilled in creating compelling visuals and optimizing online sales.
Marshall Hogenson
- Business Consultant
- Well-traveled business leader with extensive domestic and international experience, bringing a global perspective to every engagement.
- Specialist in strategy, revenue growth, and operational efficiency, helping organizations scale and thrive.
- Seasoned professional with experience across a wide range of industries, offering versatile insights to businesses of all types.
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and regional support partners. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the program sponsors. Programs are open to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Central Region SBDC at 320-308-4842.
