Farmer recognized in the Rainmakers category for driving business growth, expanding KLC’s presence in family entertainment financing, and building lasting industry relationships.
MINNETONKA, Minn. (October 14, 2026) – KLC Financial is proud to announce that Lesley Farmer has been named one of Monitor’s 2026 Most Influential People in Equipment Finance, earning recognition in the Rainmakers category. The honor recognizes revenue leaders who consistently deliver growth through originations, syndications, or strategic expansion.
With more than 20 years of experience in equipment finance, Farmer has established herself as a proven revenue leader and trusted industry advisor. She has played an instrumental role in developing KLC Financial’s family entertainment financing business into a key growth area for the company, helping operators and business owners secure financing for new locations, expansions, and equipment investments.
Through her deep industry knowledge, extensive referral network, and ability to structure creative financing solutions, Farmer has consistently generated new business opportunities while building lasting relationships with operators, vendors, and industry partners. Her approach has helped expand KLC’s reach within the family entertainment industry and establish the company as a trusted financing resource in the market.
“Rather than focusing on volume, I’ve focused on becoming a trusted resource,” said Farmer. “I stay engaged with my clients and the industries I serve, look for ways to add value beyond the transaction, and work hard to find financing solutions that help businesses succeed. That approach has led to long term relationships, repeat business, and a strong referral network.”
“Lesley represents everything we value at KLC,” said Shannon Smith, CEO of KLC. “She genuinely cares about the people she works with, understands their businesses, and consistently finds ways to help them succeed. Her relationships and reputation speak for themselves, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Beyond her work at KLC, Farmer is actively involved in the finance community, serving on the boards of the Risk Management Association of Minnesota and the Turnaround Management Association of Minnesota. She also shares her experience and industry knowledge with colleagues, helping develop the next generation of equipment finance professionals.
Farmer’s selection as one of Monitor’s Most Influential People adds to an impressive list of industry honors, including recognition among Monitor’s Top 50 Women in Equipment Finance and honors from Finance & Commerce as a Top Woman in Finance and a Circle of Excellence honoree.
Her recognition in the Rainmakers category reflects her consistent ability to drive business growth while building the trusted relationships and industry partnerships that have defined her career.
About KLC Financial
Founded in 1987, KLC Financial provides creative equipment financing solutions to businesses across a wide range of industries throughout the United States. With a relationship driven approach and a commitment to finding solutions for businesses of all sizes, KLC helps customers acquire the equipment they need to grow and succeed. KLC Financial is a subsidiary of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company.
