Equipment finance conference sees record attendance and renewed bank commitment

This year’s 36th Annual National Funding Conference hosted by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) in Chicago has established itself as a pivotal gathering for the equipment finance industry. Kicking off with a vibrant cocktail reception, the event marked a significant opportunity for networking, learning, and forging vital relationships among industry professionals.

Attracting record attendance, with more than 750 participants—a notable increase of over 100 from the previous year—the conference buzzed with energy and potential. Attendees began arriving earlier in the week to maximise business opportunities, utilising both informal networking in the iconic Palmer House Hilton and structured meetings facilitated by ELFA’s pre-conference scheduling tools. This level of preparation underscores the event's crucial role in fostering connections in the industry.

The sense of urgency and collaboration at the conference was palpable, characterised by a bustling atmosphere filled with discussions about future possibilities. Grounded in its central location and accessibility, Chicago continues to serve as a perfect venue. Industry veterans have often remarked that participation in this event is integral to their business operations, with some stating that their membership with ELFA might not endure without the conference.

This year’s discussions unfolded against a backdrop of optimism tempered by strategic caution. Key among the topics was the reality of tariff concerns and rising equipment costs, juxtaposed with emerging opportunities in reshoring manufacturing and investments into clean energy, vocational trucks, and infrastructure. A common thread among conversations was the assurance of robust performance, with many members reporting strong results from Q4 2024 and an optimistic view towards Q2 2025 despite initial softness in the first quarter of the new year.

Of particular note was the resurgence of banks within the equipment finance landscape. Leaders from 15 of the largest financial institutions expressed a renewed commitment to the sector, keen on deploying liquidity and expanding their portfolios. One community bank's executive highlighted their equipment finance division as a key area of profitability, illustrating the sector's resilience and potential for growth.

The role of private equity in the industry has also surged, with various private equity-backed firms gaining ground, particularly in the small-ticket and vendor segments. Their visibility at the conference was enhanced, with representatives from sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors engaging directly with equipment financiers. This evolution mirrors broader shifts in capital sources and funding dynamics, as the ELFA harnesses these trends to benefit its members.

The conference did more than foster individual interactions; it positioned itself as an essential platform for industry-wide collaboration and innovation. Attendees engaged in discussions, deep-diving into strategies that then shaped the broader market landscape. The event filled a critical gap, connecting finance companies with diverse funding sources, including traditional banks, institutional investors, and alternative lenders.

Final reflections from participants reinforced the significance of the conference in the context of evolving challenges and opportunities. Attendees lauded the outstanding organisational efforts led by ELFA’s dedicated team, including President & CEO Leigh Lytle, who continuously strive to enhance the quality and impact of this cornerstone event.

As the equipment finance sector navigates its future, forums like the ELFA National Funding Conference will remain instrumental in uniting leaders equipped to address the challenges ahead and seize opportunities for sustainable growth. The vibrant interactions and strategic insights exchanged will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of the industry in the coming year.

In closing, the anticipation is already building for the upcoming 2025 National Funding Conference, scheduled for April 15-17. This annual event will again serve as a vital nexus for professionals seeking to further develop their networks, share innovative financing solutions, and tackle emerging market dynamics collectively.