Lance Coffman serves as Senior Program Manager for Strategic Initiatives with efactory and the Missouri SBDC at Missouri State University, where he develops and implements innovative programs designed to help organizations thrive. His current portfolio includes the Elevate program for sustaining growth in mid-size Missouri companies, an experiential learning initiative that connects local business owners with MSU students for semester-long applied projects, and LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® based programs for leadership development, team building, and strategic planning. Additionally, he leads process improvement and innovation engagements with both businesses and academic units across the university.
With over 20 years of experience in marketing and management, Lance brings a unique blend of academic rigor and entrepreneurial insight to his role. As a serial entrepreneur and former Online Marketing Director serving companies nationally, he understands the challenges facing growing businesses firsthand.
He holds a PhD in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University, with research focused on employee attraction and customer experience, along with an MBA and Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management from Missouri State University. His expertise as a trained Executive/Transformational Coach and Dale Carnegie trained presenter has made him a sought-after speaker at national, state, and local events. In 2025, he was recognized as the Missouri SBDC State Star for his outstanding contributions to small business development.
When he's not helping businesses grow or developing the next generation of business leaders, Lance enjoys life on his wife's family farm in rural Missouri with his wife and two boys. His passion for learning new things and gaining new experiences extends beyond the office, whether he's hiking, camping, kayaking, playing music, or tinkering with hobby electronics projects.
