The equipment finance community is gearing up to network and learn at ELFA 2020 Business LIVE!
Why you don’t want to miss it.
One hallmark of the equipment finance industry is its resilience. In 2020, ELFA members are one again demonstrating their knack for turning uncertainty into opportunity. While the COVID-19 pandemic is limiting in-person industry gatherings, that isn’t stopping members from learning and networking together. In lieu of the in-person 59th ELFA Annual Convention originally scheduled to take place in Austin, the ELFA community is preparing to gather online on Oct. 27 and 28 for ELFA 2020 Business LIVE!, the association’s first interactive virtual conference.
This innovative event couldn’t come at a better time, says Martha Ahlers, ELFA Board Chair and President of United Leasing & Finance. “A lot has changed in the past six months,” notes Ahlers. “It’s more important than ever for us to come together as a community to connect, exchange insights and prepare for what’s coming next. I’m really excited about ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! and look forward to seeing as many members as possible there.”
“It is in times exactly like these that customers of the equipment finance industry need our help. ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! comes at the right time to both keep our industry strong and help individual members grow professionally. The agenda looks great and I’m looking forward to attending.”
David Walton, President and CEOCaterpillar Financial Services Corporation
ELFA President and CEO Ralph Petta agrees. “These are extraordinary times as the health and economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic continues to grip our nation,” he says. “We’ve got a lot to talk about as an industry. This one-of-a-kind gathering will be a great chance for all members to make new connections and address critical issues and trends affecting the equipment finance industry in our rapidly changing world.”
You may be wondering what to expect from a virtual conference. One thing is for sure: ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! won’t be just another video conference. Participants will meet on a user-friendly platform featuring the latest technology tools. This will be an interactive experience featuring unique opportunities never offered at an ELFA event. Read on for highlights.
"This will be my first ELFA conference. I recently joined the equipment finance industry and I have been eager to learn more and engage with others in the industry. I would love to meet others and find out more about how we can all work together for the greater good!”
Jenaleigh Lathrop, CLFP, Sales Support SpecialistArvest Equipment Finance
What Is a Virtual Conference?
It’s an online event that mimics many of the qualities of an in-person event. On the ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! virtual platform, attendees can move around the conference hall, clicking from one virtual area to the next. You can also attend educational sessions, connect with other attendees for networking and discussion, visit a multimedia exhibit hall, stop by a help desk with any questions, and go back and watch recorded sessions, available immediately and posted for up to six months after the event.What’s on the Agenda?
The two-day agenda at ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! will include high-quality educational sessions on industry hot topics, interactive presentations led by industry leaders and world-class speakers, formal and informal networking opportunities, a multimedia virtual exhibit and even a surprise or two!
“I’m very excited to be attending the first virtual ELFA annual conference…. I think it’s important we pull together as an industry and show that we are still connected, still vibrant, still important and able to pivot and adjust to serve our customers.”
Cam Krueger, Senior Managing Director -North American Specialty Finance Leader, Accenture
More than 75 industry subject matter experts will speak at 20 concurrent breakout sessions on a wide range of topics to ensure there's something for everyone. Topics will include financing alternatives, technology and innovation, the customer experience, marketing agility, pockets of opportunity, growth after COVID-19, legal issues, data analytics, diversity & inclusion, credit and risk and more. In addition, sector-specific sessions will focus on banks, independents and captive and vendor finance organizations. See the full agenda below.
Keynote speakers will share insights on a range of issues relevant to the equipment finance sector. Speakers include geopolitical analyst Peter Zeihan, renowned political strategist Donna Brazile and expert economic forecaster Marci Rossell.
"While the difficult times have impacted events, that does not require us to be isolated from learning and engaging with industry expects. With all the uncertainty we face, it is events like ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! that provide the knowledge to assist us in making thoughtful and insightful business decisions."
Brett Davis, Vice President, New Holland North AmericaCNH Industrial Capital LLC
Who Should Attend?
All ELFA members—from emerging talent to senior executives—are invited to attend this accessible event. Discounted registration fees and expanded content are designed to allow you and your colleagues representing a wide range of job responsibilities and experience levels to register.“We are designing ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! as a one-of-a-kind gathering for the entire membership,” explains Petta. “In addition to our regular ELFA Annual Convention attendees, we look forward to seeing a lot of new faces, including those who planned to attend other events that were cancelled this year, and those who’ve never attended an ELFA Convention.”
“2020 has challenged us to adapt to a new way of life. ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! is a great opportunity to network within the industry and learn about new trends. I expect this year’s conference to take it to the next level.”
Jeff Elliott, CLFP, Senior Managing DirectorHuntington Equipment Finance
Build Your Network
You’ll have multiple opportunities to expand your professional network, engage with other attendees and create lasting connections. A number of unique networking opportunities are available to you from within the virtual conference platform. Virtual gathering will include:- Head to the networking lounges to chat with your peers about industry hot topics or continue the dialogue from breakout sessions. The conference will feature a variety of lounges where attendees can network, with chats focused on best practices in specific areas.
- Engage in private 1:1 chats with other attendees at any time throughout the event.
- Participate in group chats within sessions to exchange thoughts with other attendees on the topics at hand.
- Visit the virtual exhibit hall to network with industry service providers. Attendees can engage in private 1:1 chats with exhibitors and also participate in private “in-booth” group chats with exhibitors and other attendees. In addition, exhibitors have the ability to schedule and conduct 1:1 video chats within the platform.
- Exchange emails with individual attendees.
“As a relatively new professional to the equipment finance industry, and a member of the Emerging Talent Advisory Council, I am very excited for ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! I am especially looking forward to hearing Peter Zeihan and his thoughts on the current geopolitical climate given what a wild year 2020 has been. I’ve been following him on social media for years and have always enjoyed his perspective on global events.”
Grant Fate, Associate – Capital Markets Stonebriar Commercial Finance10 Tips: Maximize Your Experience
How can you get the most out of ELFA 2020 Business LIVE? Follow these 10 tips to ensure you are prepared to take full advantage of the virtual conference experience:- First things first! – Make sure to add the event to your calendar as soon as you register, so you won’t accidentally miss out!
- Minimize distractions! – Just like attending an in-person conference, you’ll want to have your full attention on all our content and exhibitors, which can be a little more difficult virtually. Closing your door and turning off notifications are a couple steps you can take to fully immerse yourself in the conference.
- Plan your schedule! – Take a look at the conference schedule in advance to see which events you'd like to attend.
- Check out the exhibitors! – The exhibitor list is available on the LIVE website. Plan which booths you’d like to visit in our virtual exhibit hall.
- See who will be there! – Check the attendee roster to see who you want to connect with.
- Get social! – Reach out to colleagues and your professional network to start chatting now about the conference and what sessions you’re planning to attend. Consider connecting via ELFA’s social media channels, online communities and your personal LinkedIn account. Remember to use the hashtag #ELFA2020BusinessLIVE.
- Coffee break! – Make sure to have some coffee, water and snacks close by. Don’t forget to refresh and energize your brain during the conference! And of course, frequent stretch and bio-breaks are highly recommended.
- Take notes! – Sounds a little obvious, but it’s a great way to stay focused and get as much as possible out of the conference.
- Tech check! – The platform for ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! is user-friendly and you should not encounter access issues. However, it never hurts to check your Internet connection and conference login before the day of.
- Help, I missed a session! – Don’t worry about missing out on content, you can check out any of the sessions for up to six months after the conference!
“ELFA has done an excellent job in selecting a virtual platform that will allow attendees to feel as close to an onsite meeting as possible without the need for travel. The LTi team is looking forward to listening to the keynote speakers and breakout sessions. Plus, who doesn’t like a virtual happy hour or two 😊”
Jesse J. Johnson, Director of Sales, LTi Technology Solutions
What Are the Benefits?
As members share their reasons for registering for ELFA 2020 Business LIVE!, some common themes are emerging. Here are some key reasons to attend:- This is an opportunity to connect with the ELFA community on issues important to my business. I can focus on the topics that matter to me through targeted sessions and interactive discussions with experts, colleagues and friends.
- I’m looking to expand my professional network through formal and informal networking.
- No plane tickets or hotel rooms are needed. I can attend from anywhere.
- Discounted registration fees and expanded content make it easier for me and my employees—representing a wide range of job responsibilities and experience levels—to attend.
- Sessions will be recorded so I’ll have access to them for up to six months after the event. I can join in real-time or watch sessions on-demand.
- Access to the multimedia exhibit hall will help me discover the latest solutions for my business.
- By registering for this event, I am showing my support for and contributing to the success of our industry and our association.
“I am looking forward to attending ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! Although I will miss the in-person social aspect of the customary Annual Convention, my experience with virtual events during the lockdown means that the educational element will be just as valuable as the usual breakout sessions.”
Steve Whelan, Partner, Blank Rome LLPDuring these unprecedented times, as the equipment finance industry navigates new challenges and looks ahead to new opportunities, ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! is the place to invest in the success of your business, your staff, your industry and your career.
To learn more about this event, please visit www.elfaonline.org/2020buslive or email [email protected]. We hope to see you there!
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Donna BrazileRenowned Political Strategist and Commentator
Veteran political strategist Donna Brazile has devoted her life to working for progressive change, responsible governance and the advancement of all people in a society that is fair and equitable. She has worked on every major presidential campaign since 1976 and in 2000 she became the first African American woman to serve as the manager of a major party presidential campaign, running the campaign of former Vice President Al Gore. She is a contributor to Fox News and was formerly a contributor to ABC News and CNN.
Marci RossellExpert Economic Forecaster, Former CNBC Chief Economist and Co-Host of SQUAWK BOX
Marci Rossell electrifies audiences nationwide, speaking on the nexus of economics, politics, culture and the media. She takes complex economic issues and makes them relevant to people's lives, families and careers. Prior to her career in broadcast journalism, Rossell served as Corporate Economist and Investment Spokesperson for OppenheimerFunds, one of the nation's largest mutual fund companies. She began her career as an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.
Peter ZeihanGeopolitical Strategist
Peter Zeihan is a geopolitical strategist, which is a fancy way of saying he helps people understand how the world works. He combines an expert understanding of demography, economics, energy, politics, technology and security to help clients—including energy majors, financial institutions, business associations, agricultural interests, universities and the U.S. military—prepare for an uncertain future. Peter is a author of The Accidental Superpower and The Absent Superpower.His latest book is Disunited Nations: The Scramble for Power in an Ungoverned World.
“I am looking forward to ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! It will be a great opportunity to get back to networking and stay informed in our increasingly tumultuous environment.”
Marci Slagle, CLFPPresident, BankFinancial Equipment Finance
Thank You to All Sponsors and Exhibitors
Make sure you visit the virtual exhibit hall at ELFA 2020 Business LIVE! A robust group of equipment finance industry service providers are exhibiting, giving you a look at services available to help increase the operational efficiency of your company. In addition, a number of companies are supporting this event through sponsorships.For information on becoming an exhibitor or sponsor, please contact Steve Wafalosky at [email protected] or 440-247-1060.
Exhibitors (as of September 10):
Alfa
American Lease Insurance
Constellation Financial Software
eOriginal Inc.
FIS
IDS
Liventus
LTi Technology Solutions
NETSOL Technologies
Odessa
Oracle
Orion First Financial, LLC
PayNet, an Equifax Company
Q2 Cloud Lending
RTR Services, Inc.
Sopra Banking Software
TAO Solutions Corp.
Sponsors (as of September 10):
Alfa
LTi Technology Solutions
NETSOL Technologies
Odessa
Orion
First Financial, LLC
PayNet, an Equifax Company
RTR Services, Inc.
Wintrust Asset Finance, Inc.
“It’s more important than ever for us to come together as a community to connect, exchange insights and prepare for what’s coming next.”
Martha Ahlers, ELFA Board Chair President, United Leasing & Finance
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27
Schedule times are in US Eastern time zone.
11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Welcome and General Session Keynote
Ralph Petta
President and CEO of ELFA
Donna Brazile
Renowned Political Strategist and Commentator
12:15 pm – 1:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Breakout Sessions
• Adapt to Thrive: How Marketing Agility Enables a Stronger Response to Extraordinary Challenges
Brought to you by: ELFA Communications Committee
• There Is More Than Meets the Eye With Diversity and Inclusion
Brought to you by: ELFA Equality Committee
• Has COVID 19 Ushered in the Leasing Company of the Future?
• Balancing Tech & Human Interaction in the Customer Experience
Brought to you by: ELFA Operations & Technology Committee
• Back to Basics: Introduction to the Leasing and Finance Industry
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Exhibit Hall
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Networking Lounge Programs
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Breakout Sessions
• What's New in the Law?
• Transport Finance in the Age of COVID: Aircraft, Trucks, and Vessels
• Fast Tracking Your Technology in the Age of COVID
Brought to you by: ELFA Operations & Technology Excellence Award
• Where Confidence and Resilience Intersect: Facing and Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
Brought to you by: ELFA Women's Council
3:30 pm – 3:45 pm
Exhibit Hall
3:45 pm – 4:45 pm
Welcome and General Session Keynote
Kelli Nienaber
Executive Director, Equipment Leasing
& Finance Foundation
Scott Thacker
Chair, Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation
Marci Rossell
Expert Economic Forecaster, Former
CNBC Chief Economist and Co-Host of SQUAWK BOX
4:45 pm – 5:15 pm
Newcomer and First Time Attendee Virtual Reception
4:45 pm – 5:15 pm
Women’s Council Virtual Reception
5:15 pm – 5:45 pm
Opening Virtual Reception
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28
Schedule times are in US Eastern time zone.
11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Welcome and General Session Keynote
Martha Ahlers
ELFA Board Chair
Peter Zeihan
Geopolitical Strategist
12:15 pm – 1:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Breakout Sessions
• The COVID-19 Economy and Outlook for Equipment Finance
Brought to you by:
• Developing Young Talent for Long-Term Success
Brought to you by: ELFA Emerging Talent Advisory Council
• Emerging Technology: Hype vs Reality
Brought to you by: ELFA Operations & Technology Committee
• Collateral Repossession - Challenges in a Post COVID Environment
• Finding Growth After COVID: A Search for New Green Pastures
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Exhibit Hall
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Networking Lounge Programs
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Breakout Sessions
• How Data Analytics Can Improve Your Business Results
Brought to you by: ELFA Research Committee
• Pockets of Opportunity for Independents - Where to Shoot the 8-ball
Brought to you by: ELFA Independent Middle Market BCSC
• Automating Credit Decisioning & Risk Modeling
Brought to you by: ELFA Small Ticket BCSC
• I'm a Bank Finance Company: What Do I Need to Know to Survive and Thrive?
Brought to you by: ELFA Financial Institutions BCSC
• Optimizing Managed Bundled Services & Market Practices
3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Exhibit Hall
4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Closing General Session
4:45 pm – 5:45 pm
Virtual Reception
Important: Registration Deadlines
To register and learn more about ELFA 2020 Business LIVE!, please visit www.elfaonline.org/2020buslive.Thursday, October 8
Due to overwhelming demand the early bird deadline date has been extended to Oct. 8. Register by this date for the best rate!
Tuesday, October 20
Last day to register. Companies registering 10 or more employees will receive a discount.
“In addition to our regular ELFA Annual Convention attendees, we look forward to seeing a lot of new faces, including those who planned to attend other events that were cancelled this year, and those who’ve never attended an ELFA Convention.”
Ralph Petta, ELFA President and CEOShare:
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