From foundational training to fraud defense and regulatory engagement, AAPL is building the systems private lending now requires. If it feels like the private lending market is louder, faster, and riskier than ever, that’s because it is. Capital is moving. Fraud is evolving. Regulators are circling. Borrower expectations are shifting. And everyone claims to have [...]
AAPL Education Forum: Elevating Knowledge. Strengthening the Industry. AAPL is proud to announce an exciting evolution in our educational programming. After thoughtful consideration and feedback from our members, we are retiring the Fund Forum and introducing a broader, more inclusive platform: the AAPL Education Forum. The AAPL Education Forum expands beyond fund‑specific content to deliver [...]
The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL), in partnership with Truepic, announced the launch of the Media Fakes & Misrepresentation packaged learning course, a new educational offering designed exclusively for AAPL members. This free course equips private lenders with critical knowledge to identify, understand, and mitigate fraud enabled by falsified or manipulated images and video—an increasingly common [...]
As private lending continues to grow in influence and complexity, the need to elevate authentic industry voices has never been more important. The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) is proud to introduce AAPL Constituency, the official podcast dedicated to telling the stories shaping private lending today. Hosted by Linda Hyde and Eddie Wilson, the [...]
As private lending continues to mature, the need for ethical, well‑educated, and professionally aligned lenders has never been greater. North Oak Investment is helping lead that evolution by embracing AAPL’s standards and advancing responsible practices across the industry. A new feature highlights how North Oak has transitioned from traditional hard money lending to a modern, [...]
As the private lending industry continues to expand, lenders are placing greater emphasis on accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in their loan documentation processes. A recent feature highlights how Lightning Docs has emerged as the trusted industry standard for business‑purpose loan documents—offering private lenders a streamlined, attorney‑grade solution built for speed and reliability. Developed by the [...]
As private lending grows in scale and influence, the need for a unified professional community has never been more important. The American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) is stepping into that role with renewed purpose—strengthening industry standards, expanding education, and creating a true home for private lending professionals nationwide. A recent feature highlights how AAPL [...]
The national conversation around housing affordability continues to escalate as a proposed ban on institutional investors purchasing single‑family homes sparks strong reactions across the real estate and private lending sectors. Supporters argue the measure could help open inventory for first‑time homebuyers, while critics warn it may create unintended consequences for housing supply, rental markets, and [...]
The private lending industry is experiencing rapid growth, increased regulatory attention, and a rising demand for strong professional standards. As lenders look for guidance on navigating this evolving landscape, industry leadership becomes more important than ever. In a recent Lender Lounge feature, Linda Hyde offers an in‑depth look at the trends shaping private lending and [...]
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