The team of business consultants from efactory’s Missouri SBDC at MSU received multiple recognitions at the recent annual MU Extension Business and Communities Professional Development Conference in early March. The team represented efactory and the region with excellence, receiving one of the Top Overall Performance Awards for FY2024.
This prestigious award honors the team’s outstanding efforts in driving measurable client success and making a lasting impact on small businesses across southwest Missouri.
“We are incredibly proud of this achievement and the entrepreneurs we support every day,” said Nicki Donnelson, marketing and communications director at efactory. “Offering support to businesses throughout the lifecycle is a huge value to not only Springfield businesses, but it impacts the economic vitality of the entire region that the Missouri SBDC at MSU serves.”
Several of the consultants were recognized for their individual contributions and exceptional performance:
- Sandra Smart, technology and commercialization specialist, received a top three FY2024 Capitalization Impact Generation Award and Capitalization Events Impact Generation Award. These awards recognize her expertise in securing capital funding for clients, and her dedication to helping businesses thrive.
- Lance Coffman, regional business consultant, was also recognized with a FY2024 Capitalization Impact Generation. This award was given due to his ability to guide entrepreneurs through the complexities of securing funding.
- Mel Steele, regional business consultant at MSU – West Plains, received the Team Player award, a testament to his collaborative spirit and support for colleagues.
- Tara Horton, assistant director of training at efactory, was recognized for 25 years of service with the MU Extension Business & Communities and Missouri SBDC programs.
- Chrystal Irons, director of business support and training and the director of Missouri SBDC at MSU, was recognized for 15 years of service with the MU Extension Business & Communities and Missouri SBDC programs.
“These awards and recognition highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of our team,” Donnelson said. “Their passion for helping businesses succeed and their commitment to excellence shine through in everything they do.”
