Pressure found Shaye Wali early—and never left. Long before boardrooms and balance sheets, it was waiting for him on the tennis court. That same discipline now guides how he builds Baseline Software, turning every pivot into part of a continuous rally he has no intention of losing. If you want to know who someone really [...]
The country’s long-term housing deficit is pushing investors toward ground-up construction, and private lenders are providing the fast, flexible capital powering it. Borrowers who once came to private lenders for fix-and-flip loans are now asking about a slightly different type of financing meant for more sophisticated real estate investors. These investors are eyeing ground-up construction [...]
In a trailblazing entrepreneurial journey, a former investment banking analyst channeled his expertise into a groundbreaking venture with the goal of transforming the private lending landscape with innovative technology that empowers lenders. In 2014, I was at a career crossroads. My first job as an analyst at Morgan Stanley after graduating from Tulane was interesting, [...]
Integrating AI into private lending operations will likely increase profits, allowing companies to to hire additional staff, develop new products, and expand into new markets. When ATMs were introduced more than 50 years ago, there was widespread fear that bank tellers would soon be out of jobs. Yet, the number of bank teller jobs has [...]
Membership Questions?
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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