Representatives of the fledging equipment finance industry convened in Chicago in January 1961 to discuss forming an association. In October of that year, the Association of Equipment Lessors was born. The Articles of Incorporation stated the purpose of the association was:
To develop a better understanding of the general problems involved in the equipment leasing business and to engage in such activities as may be necessary or desirable to serve and advance the general interest and welfare of companies engaged in the equipment leasing business.
In a relatively short time, the equipment finance industry grew from a fledgling industry to a major force in the U.S. economy. Today, 60 years later, while our association has changed in many ways, our core purpose remains to unite the industry under one umbrella to learn together, do business together and advocate for the industry and its important role in our economy.
Over the past six decades, member companies have innovated to meet changing customer needs, and our association has evolved to focus on what matters most to the membership. That resilience and entrepreneurial spirit will guide us as we look ahead to the next 60 years of equipping American businesses to succeed and prosper.
As we celebrate ELFA’s 60th anniversary throughout 2021, you are invited to join us in reflecting on our journey, and envisioning what the next 60 years will bring. For more on ELFA’s 60th anniversary recognition, please visit: www.elfaonline.org/60th. Highlights include:
Membership Anniversaries – See which companies are celebrating milestone ELFA membership anniversaries in 2021.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Watch a video snapshot of ELFA from 1961 to present.
Historical Timeline - Track notable achievements in the history of the association and the industry.
Historical Timeline - Track notable achievements in the history of the association and the industry.
Evolution of Equipment Finance - Q&As with association members reflecting on the past and looking to the future. See the latest Q&A.
60th ELFA Annual Convention - ELFA’s anniversary year will culminate at the Annual Convention in October. Watch for details to come later this year.
New Events Announced
To develop a better understanding of the general problems involved in the equipment leasing business and to engage in such activities as may be necessary or desirable to serve and advance the general interest and welfare of companies engaged in the equipment leasing business.
In a relatively short time, the equipment finance industry grew from a fledgling industry to a major force in the U.S. economy. Today, 60 years later, while our association has changed in many ways, our core purpose remains to unite the industry under one umbrella to learn together, do business together and advocate for the industry and its important role in our economy.
Over the past six decades, member companies have innovated to meet changing customer needs, and our association has evolved to focus on what matters most to the membership. That resilience and entrepreneurial spirit will guide us as we look ahead to the next 60 years of equipping American businesses to succeed and prosper.
As we celebrate ELFA’s 60th anniversary throughout 2021, you are invited to join us in reflecting on our journey, and envisioning what the next 60 years will bring. For more on ELFA’s 60th anniversary recognition, please visit: www.elfaonline.org/60th. Highlights include:
Membership Anniversaries – See which companies are celebrating milestone ELFA membership anniversaries in 2021.
60 Years in 60 Seconds - Watch a video snapshot of ELFA from 1961 to present.
Historical Timeline - Track notable achievements in the history of the association and the industry.
Historical Timeline - Track notable achievements in the history of the association and the industry.
Evolution of Equipment Finance - Q&As with association members reflecting on the past and looking to the future. See the latest Q&A.
60th ELFA Annual Convention - ELFA’s anniversary year will culminate at the Annual Convention in October. Watch for details to come later this year.
New Events Announced
ELFA is rolling out new events to help you network, stay on top of critical industry trends and build your business. Get a sneak peek at the upcoming Innovator Roundtable with TommorowZone, Women’s Leadership Forum and Credit & Collections Conference. See much more at www.elfaonline.org/events. Thank you as always for your support and participation.

We look forward to celebrating with you at the 60th ELFA Annual Convention in October!
Article Tags:
EL&F magazine article
From the President & CEO
Column
2021