The American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers wrapped up its 2026 Annual Conference on Thursday, May 7 in Orlando, Fla., marking the 35th Anniversary of the organization’s incorporation.
Themed “The Power of Partnerships – Where Magic Meets Momentum,” the event brought together commercial finance brokers, funding sources, and service providers from across the country for three days of education, networking, and collaboration designed to strengthen relationships and drive business growth throughout the industry.
The conference opened with a full day of networking and educational opportunities, including the ever-popular Brokering Essentials class featuring experienced commercial finance brokers sharing practical insights and real-world strategies for success in the industry. Attendees also enjoyed the Women in Finance Luncheon and Speed Networking Reception, and capped off the first day with an exciting reception at ICEBAR Orlando, where participants had the opportunity to cool off with colleagues and enjoy cocktails in sub-zero temperatures.
The next day was packed with educational sessions focused heavily on partnership-building, sales growth, underwriting strategies, technology, artificial intelligence, business development, and market trends impacting the commercial finance industry. Participants had the opportunity to choose from a wide variety of breakout sessions geared toward both seasoned veterans and those newer to the industry.
One of the highlights of the conference was the keynote presentation by renowned speaker Alyson Van Hooser, who delivered a high-energy message focused on transformation and collaboration in business, reinforcing the conference theme and emphasizing how strategic partnerships continue to shape the future of commercial finance.
A standout networking event was the AACFB and Equipment Finance Cares Pickleball Social Charity Event, which quickly became one of the conference’s most talked-about activities. Attendees enjoyed food, drinks and a live performance by country singer, Billy Brown. The casual competition and lively atmosphere gave attendees another opportunity to strengthen relationships, create new connections, and enjoy friendly competition while raising money for a worthy cause.
The final day of the event included the Annual Business Meeting Luncheon, where President Kalah Sprabeary CLFP, passed the gavel to incoming President Katie Baker CLFP. The 2026 AACFB President’s Award was presented to Laura Simpson of Preferred Capital Funding in recognition of her outstanding service and dedication to the association and the commercial finance industry. In addition, Jackie Paulsen of Synergy Financial Resources was awarded the CLFP Scholarship established in memory of AACFB Past President Roderick Knoll CLFP, who passed away in February. The scholarship honors his lasting commitment to mentorship, professionalism and advancing the industry.
AACFB President Sprabeary thanked the conference sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and volunteers whose efforts helped make the event a success. She especially thanked members of the planning committee, including Eduardo Del Rio, John Boettigheimer, Rebecca Masserini-Cooper, Taylor Moseley, Kathy Nordendahl CLFP, Jackie Paulsen, Kevin Sampson, Melissa Vinson, CLFP, and board liaisons Katie Baker CLFP, and Liz Poventud. She noted that the conference theme was reflected throughout the week as attendees built new relationships, strengthened existing partnerships, and shared ideas designed to move the industry forward.
Attendees consistently praised the conference for its meaningful connections and actionable education.
“Every time I attend an AACFB conference, I come back with tremendous value for our business,” said Carrie Radloff CLFP. “From strengthening relationships with our current funding partners and meeting new ones, to networking with fellow brokers and sharing ideas that help us grow. The educational sessions always provide practical takeaways that we can implement immediately, and the friendships built over the years make it even more rewarding. I truly love this association, and our business is more successful because of it.”
John Woodward of Commercial Capital Company added, “I wanted to thank the AACFB for a great show in Orlando. We were both exhibitors and sponsors and felt the show was very productive for us. It was great to meet and speak with broker originators in person and learn more about their business and needs. The ICEBAR was a fun opportunity to interact with brokers and lenders away from the office and get to know them a bit more personally.”
The conference concluded with the auction and the Happy Hour and a Half, where attendees celebrated another successful year for the association while building excitement for upcoming AACFB events and initiatives. The always-popular AACFB Bucks auction once again gave attendees the opportunity to bid on sponsor-donated prize packages after earning “AACFB Bucks” throughout the conference by attending sessions and visiting exhibitors.