ELFA Mobile

Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition

September 08 - September 10, 2025

Denver Hilton City Center, Denver, CO
Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition

Monday, September 08

08:00 AM - 06:00 PM Conference Registration
09:00 AM - 11:30 AM Exhibitor Set-Up
We will hold a table-top exhibition area outside the conference session rooms. Exhibitors will be able to set-up their tables during this time.
09:30 AM - 11:30 AM STE(A)M Backpacks for Kids: A Team Challenge That Gives Back

Get ready to team up for a high-energy, feel-good activity that blends learning, laughter, and community impact. In this fun twist on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?”, you’ll compete in teams while assembling STE(A)M Backpack Kits for kids ages 5–10. Each kit supports hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math learning for students at a local charter school and after-school program. Spark curiosity, inspire young minds, and walk away knowing your team made a real difference.

This event is offered for attendees of both conferences. Select your interest in participating during the registration process.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Pre-Conference Roundtable: Documentation Automation - Challenges & Opportunities

Moderators:

Chris Maudlin, CLFP, Wintrust Specialty Finance
Kaheres Hahn, Independent Technology Consultant

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Pre-Conference Roundtable: The Future of Work - Talent, Tech and Transformation

As AI and automation transform the way we serve customers, the human moments matter more than ever. This session introduces the N.I.C.E. framework - a practical and repeatable model for training agents to deliver service that is emotionally intelligent, consultative, and trust-building. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to develop talent who can truly notice, listen, care, and follow through.

Chelsey BarronChair, ELFA Innovation Committee, LEAF Commercial Capital Inc.
Lilian Starr, First Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
Shelly Tauer, U.S. Bank
Belma Jusufovic, John Deere Financial

01:15 PM - 02:30 PM Opening & Keynote Presentation: Five Rules for Innovating in Turbulent Times

In this mainstage talk, Chelsey Barron, Innovation Committee Chair, introduces the NEW Innovation Lab Conference & Exhibition and all the exciting things that await you this week. We will then hear from ELFA CEO & President, Leigh Lytle. Leigh will highlight all that ELFA has accomplished in 2025, what is beyond and how this innovative and active group can participate.

Chelsey BarronChair, ELFA Innovation Committee, LEAF Commercial Capital Inc.
Leigh Lytle, CEO & President, Equipment Leasing and Finance Association

Rounding out this energetic start to our conference is Safi Bahcall.

Safi is a former public-company CEO, physicist, award-winning entrepreneur, author of the international bestseller Loonshots, and advisor on innovation and strategy.

Five Rules for Innovating in Turbulent Times
Many companies struggle to adapt to rapidly changing markets: the core dominates the new, projects linger too long, and innovation theater proliferates. The apex innovators who avoid these traps and dominate their industry focus on structure not just culture. They build a system to run experiments at pace and scale without sacrificing excellence in their core franchise. Using surprising and entertaining examples from Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, Harley-Davidson, Lego, and the US military, Safi describes five rules you can use to build this system and become the initiator rather than the victim of innovative surprise.

02:30 PM - 02:50 PM Coffee & Connect with Exhibitors
02:50 PM - 03:30 PM Concurrent Session: Securing the Future - Cyber Resilience in a Rapidly Changing World

Cybersecurity isn't just an IT concern, it's a business imperative. Whether you're rapidly innovating or maintaining core systems, protecting your organization, customer data, and digital infrastructure is non-negotiable. In this session, we'll explore how equipment finance leaders can balance growth and security, embed cyber awareness across teams, and build a culture where everyone - internal teams, vendors, and customers - plays a role in defending against threats.

Organizers:
Andrew CotterSomerset Capital Group, Ltd. 
Lilian StarrFirst Citizens Bank Equipment Finance
02:50 PM - 03:30 PM Concurrent Session: From Data to Decisions - Turning Insights into Action
Before you can harness the power of AI and emerging technologies, you need a strong foundation - and that starts with data. In today's business landscape, data is everywhere. But it's what you do with it that sets you apart. This fast-paced session will dive into how equipment finance companies are transforming raw data into smart, strategic decisions - from originations and portfolio management to collections and customer experience. We'll explore best practices for analytics tools, data governance, and performance measurement - and show how real companies are seeing real results, like higher conversion rates and reduced delinquencies. Come ready to learn how to unlock the potential of your data and take your business to the next level.
03:30 PM - 04:00 PM Recharge & Connect Break
04:00 PM - 04:30 PM Concurrent Session: Specialized Applications and API Services Offer Solutions for Your Business

Get ready for a fast-paced, interactive session featuring lightning-round demos from cutting-edge providers transforming the API landscape. You'll see real-world use cases in action - no theory, just practical, impactful applications. Walk away with fresh insights on emerging trends and technologies highlighted in the new Specialized Apps, Software & Information Services 2.0 (working title) paper from the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation. This resource is your go-to guide for diving deeper into the solutions reshaping our industry.

Moderator:
Chelsey BarronChair, ELFA Innovation CommitteeLEAF Commercial Capital Inc.

Speakers:
Kristian DolanNorthteq
04:00 PM - 04:30 PM Concurrent Session: AI 101

Laying the groundwork for innovation. New to AI? This session breaks down the basics and explores how artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming equipment finance. Learn how to identify opportunities for digital transformation, streamline manual processes, and apply AI to areas like risk assessment, customer service, and equipment lifecycle management. Walk away with practical insights and a solid foundation to start your AI journey.

Organizers:
Brendan CroninGreat American Insurance Group, Specialty Equipment
Jennifer MartinLTi Technology Solutions
Beckham ThomasTrnsact
04:30 PM - 04:45 PM Connection Break
04:45 PM - 05:15 PM Exhibitor Lightning Round #1

Crowd around for rootin-tootin vendor presentations! Prepare to be entertained by this fun and informal lightning round giving our exhibitors a short presentation window to convince you why you should work with them! This is a highly efficient way for you to shop exhibitors and determine the vendors you want to further conversations with. You won't want to miss this!

Facilitators: 
Christine EvershedJohn Deere Financial
Chris Maudlin, CLFPWintrust Specialty Finance
Shelly Tauer, CLFPU.S. Bank
05:15 PM - 07:00 PM Opening Reception with Exhibitors
All attendees of the both conferences are invited to connect and unwind at this fantastic reception. Exhibit tables will be open and you will have some time to stop by and chat. Lite fare will be served with an open bar. This event is included with all conference registrations.
05:15 PM - 06:00 PM Newcomers Reception
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM Evening Dinner & Entertainment

Unwind and connect with fellow attendees during a lively evening dinner event - an experience included with your conference registration.

This event will be held at a restaurant within walking distance of the hotel. Get out and see a little of Denver on your way to a fun evening!

Please indicate your interest in participating during the registration process. Registration deadline is August 25th. Transportation will be provided for those who may need assistance.

* All times are in Mountain Standard Time