The American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB) successfully concluded its 2025 Annual Conference on Friday, April 11, at the iconic Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Themed “High Stakes, High Rewards: Doubling Down on Growth and Innovation,” the event drew over 300 commercial finance professionals for three energetic days of education, networking, and celebration—including a wedding!
Festivities kicked off on Wednesday with the always-popular golf tournament at the Desert Pines Golf Club, where 52 players teed off in a friendly competition. Meanwhile, back at the Paris Hotel, 60 attendees gathered for the Women in Finance Luncheon at Café Americano. The full day Brokering Essentials class also returned with strong attendance, led by renowned industry trainer Scott Wheeler, along with veteran brokers Bud Callahan, CLFP, Roderick Knoll, CLFP, Kalah Sprabeary, CLFP, and Carrie Radloff, CLFP, who shared their firsthand industry experience.
The first evening wrapped up in style with the Speed Networking Reception and a lively poolside Opening Reception under the shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower.
Thursday brought a full schedule of educational sessions and networking opportunities. With 14 breakout sessions offered throughout the conference, attendees, whether new to the industry or seasoned professionals, had plenty to choose from. A highlight of the day was keynote speaker Krista Neher, who spotlighted the power of AI and its practical applications in today’s business environment.
Thursday’s lunch also served a greater purpose, shining a light on Once Upon a Room Las Vegas, a nonprofit that decorates hospital rooms for children undergoing long-term stays. Continuing the AACFB’s partnership, Jeff Bilbrey with Equipment Finance Cares presented the charity with a $1,000 check, with attendees contributing additional donations.
The luncheon also featured the presentation of the 2025 AACFB President’s Award, honoring Steve Geller, CLFP, with Leasing Solutions for his outstanding service to the association and the industry. A dedicated AACFB member for over 25 years, Steve is always in attendance at AACFB events with a ready smile. His enthusiasm and willingness to mentor others have made a lasting impact.
Throughout Thursday and Friday, the exhibit hall buzzed with activity as more than 50 exhibitors engaged in valuable face-to-face interactions. Attendees also enjoyed fun extras like chair massages, a Bloody Mary bar, and a margarita bar—thanks to generous sponsor support. Thursday evening brought even more excitement with AACFB’s inaugural Pickleball Tournament, adding a spirited and social twist to the schedule.
The conference concluded with the Annual Business Meeting and Prize Auction. Outgoing AACFB President Roderick Knoll, CLFP (Marathon Commercial Capital), passed the torch to incoming President Kalah Sprabeary, CLFP (HUB Funding Solutions). The association welcomed new board members Ishmael McGhee (Equitable Commercial Lending Group), Troy Vosberg, CLFP (Finance Scope), and Liz Poventud (Innovative Capital Corp.). Gratitude was expressed to Teresa Cranney (American Financial Partners) and Laura Simpson (Preferred Capital Funding) as they completed their terms on the board. AACFB also introduced its new legal counsel, Dennis Dressler of Dressler & Peters, LLC.
AACFB Treasurer Paul Bosley reported on the association’s strong financial health, and incoming President Kalah Sprabeary announced the launch of a new Broker/Funder membership category to better support hybrid firms offering both brokerage and funding services. She also recognized the retirements of two long-standing members, Bud Callahan, CLFP (National Equipment Leasing, Inc.) and Scott Hansen (Avtech Capital). With Scott’s departure from the AACFB Industry Advisory Council, Scott Stone (Avtech Capital) will join the council as Ariel Stich (Stearns Bank) takes over the chair position.
The much-anticipated prize auction followed, emceed by newcomer Josh Power of Golden Capital. Attendees used their collected “AACFB Bucks” to bid on sponsor-donated prize packages worth up to $500, making for a spirited and fun close to the week’s events.
The final toast came during Friday’s Happy Hour & a Half, where attendees relaxed and reflected on a successful week while enjoying cocktails and retirement cake. Many are already gearing up for AACFB’s Commercial Financing Expo, set for September 10-12 in Austin, Texas—an event that promises to keep the momentum going.
AACFB Executive Director, Monica Harper stated, “I want to send a huge thanks to all of our sponsors and exhibitors as well as members of the planning committee, including chair Bradon Marshall (Marshall Capital Group), Andray Downs (Worth Funding), Mike Fisher (NFS Leasing), Nicole Henning (TimePayment Corporation), Caitlin Keefe (TimePayment Corporation), Rebecca Masserini-Cooper (NewLane Finance), Amy Wagner, CLFP (American Financial Partners), and board liaisons Katie Baker, CLFP (MC2 Finance) and Laura Simpson (Preferred Capital Funding). I also want to say CONGRATULATIONS to Scott Hansen and Bud Callahan on their retirements and Stephanie Hall with Apex Commercial Capital who married her fiancé, Steve Costa while in Las Vegas. That is a first for one of our events, but we wish them the absolute best as they start their married lives together!”