As we look ahead to the 17th Annual AAPL Conference, I am proud of what our association has accomplished this year. The conference is always a highlight, bringing professionals from across the private lending industry together to learn, network, and exchange ideas. This year’s event continues that tradition while giving us an opportunity to consider [...]
As we enter a new year in private lending, our industry continues to operate in a landscape defined by both complexity and opportunity. Shifting market conditions have required lenders to exercise greater discipline, sharper risk assessment, and a renewed commitment to responsible practices. Even with these pressures, private lending remains resilient. Our adaptability—grounded in entrepreneurial [...]
Fraud is not new to private lending, but the speed and sophistication we are seeing today represent a concerning shift. What once appeared as isolated attempts to exploit documentation gaps has evolved into coordinated, technology- driven schemes that challenge even the most experienced operators. AI-generated documents, deepfake impersonation, and synthetic identities are active threats. I’m [...]
The private lending industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and events that bring professionals together for education, strategy, and collaboration are more essential than ever. AAPL’s Annual Conference remains one of the most influential gatherings in the sector, offering lenders, service providers, and real estate finance experts a space to exchange ideas and [...]
My 12-Year Journey Building AAPL Twelve years ago, I walked into my first American Association of Private Lenders event with a notebook, a head full of ideas, and a simple question: What could this industry become if we all worked together? Back then, there was no common ground, no shared standards, and certainly no united [...]
Interest rate fluctuations and compression. Economic uncertainty. Trigger-shy capital. Tariffs, inflation, forecasted labor and supply shortages. Bird flu. Sophisticated fraud schemes. Technology advancements you’re not equipped to implement—but your competitor is. Borrowers ghosting you. Co-worker drama. You missed a key detail in that file, and now the deal has gone to hell. Everyone else’s perfect [...]
Meaningful and intentional continuing education is an essential tool enabling lenders to navigate challenges, mitigate risk, and grow their businesses—all while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and accountability. AAPL has long recognized the role education plays in strengthening our community. There’s a reason our three pillars are education, ethics, and advocacy—with education placed first. [...]
Year’s end is characterized as a time of reflection … a slower pace … a moment to catch a much-needed breath. Fall and early winter recall cozy moments by a fire, warm sweaters, and quality time with loved ones. And yet, as we open the fall season and head into what many consider to be [...]
Despite the transition private lending has been experiencing, it’s gratifying to see that our industry has matured and even grown, proving its staying power and role in filling an essential gap among more traditional financial services. As new private lenders enter the space and established businesses grow, where do they find the personnel to underpin [...]
AAPL has formed a member-led fraud steering committee and launched additional initiates to combat fraud in the private lending industry. Because technology has made it easier than ever to perpetuate all kinds of fraud, lenders must defend themselves on multiple fronts. Borrower fraud is one area where our industry stands to lose the most. Whether [...]
Nominations are open until August 30, 2026, with voting from September 7-30, 2026. We’ll announce recipients at our Annual Conference.
Member of the Year (MOTY): This award goes to a member based on their deep expertise, unique value, and strong commitment to clients and the industry.
Rising Star: Rising Stars are members who have accomplished outstanding growth in their company or industry sector over the past year.
Community Impact: Recipients improve their local communities or our industry through volunteering, development programs, or civic efforts.
See past award winners, award rules, and participate in the 2026 nomination and voting process here.
VIP RECEPTION // Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while catching up with VIPs from across the country, all overlooking the gorgeous Las Vegas Strip. AAPL Members may RSVP during conference registration at no additional cost; for non-members it is $199/ticket.
NETWORKING BREAKFASTS & SESSION BREAKS // Early-risers will appreciate plentiful coffee and a selection of pastries, protein, and more – along with the opportunity to talk shop in a quieter atmosphere. Session breaks feature an energetic environment with a variety of snacking options.
AFTER-HOURS RECEPTION // Continue conversations with fellow attendees, sponsors, and speakers in the Exhibit Hall while enjoying complimentary hors d’oeuvres and two drink tokens.
OFFICIAL AFTER-PARTY // For those who hate to say goodnight, each year a few sponsors plan a little something extra to wrap up your day … or help segue from all-business to all-fun. We’ll mark the party as official and provide information about how to attend.
AAPL APP // The app is your insiders’ guide to getting the most out of #AAPLANNUAL and includes your personalized schedule, conference navigation system, and more! Download now!
Grand Prize – Custom Championship Belt & VIP Admission to Power Room event in St. Augustine, FL (February 27th – March 1st, 2023)
2nd Place – 2023 AAPL Annual Conference Bundle to include Individual Membership, 1 Conference Ticket and 1 VIP Reception pass.
3rd Place – 1 year AAPL Individual Membership