Meridian OneCap is the recipient of the 2026 Equipment Finance EQ Bank Finance Award for its forward-thinking approach to lending amid an uncertain financial landscape. The EQ Bank Finance Awards are presented by the Canadian Lenders Association (CLA) to celebrate the most innovative financial services and fintech companies in Canada. The winners represent the companies and leaders building the next generation of Canadian financial services. Meridian OneCap’s win was announced Thursday, May 28 at the 2026 Canadian Finance Summit in Toronto.

The Equipment Finance Award recognizes organizations helping Canadian businesses acquire, finance, and manage the equipment they need to grow.

According to the CLA, Meridian OneCap “is innovating by modernizing Canadian Small & Medium-size Enterprise (SME) equipment finance through faster processing, stronger fraud awareness, AI-informed decisioning, and practical financing support during a period of tariffs, cost volatility and equipment investment uncertainty.”

• Faster processing: Streamlined workflows and simplified applications enable faster approvals, helping clients move quickly on business opportunities.

• Stronger fraud awareness: Enhanced controls, a well-trained team and data-driven monitoring strengthen fraud detection.

• AI-informed decisioning: Our tech-powered insights enhance the speed and consistency of credit decisions while keeping human expertise at the centre.

• Practical financing support: Flexible financing solutions, market guidance, and strong partner relationships help SMEs make informed equipment decisions.

“This is a reflection of our incredible people,” said Meridian OneCap president Hugh Swandel. “Over the past year, our employees have worked hard to help clients navigate uncertainty while continuing to innovate and improve the financing experience for all Canadians. With decades of experience in equipment finance, deep industry knowledge, and continued investment in technology and data-driven insights, we’re well positioned to support Canadian businesses through an evolving financial landscape.”

He continued, “This award reinforces what has always mattered most to us: building relationships based in trust that help SMEs grow with confidence.”