The ELFA Equity Fund for Professional Education is a new initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for underrepresented leaders within the equipment leasing and finance sector. Established by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), this fund is designed to support individuals who identify as diverse and are employed full-time in the equipment finance industry.

Program Details

In 2024, the ELFA Equity Fund for Professional Education will award six grants, each fully covering the registration fees for attendance at the association's prestigious Annual Convention, scheduled to take place from October 27th to 29th in Austin, Texas.  The award does not include travel or hotel expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the ELFA Equity Fund for Professional Education:

• Must be a current ELFA member.
• Full-time employment in the equipment finance industry.
• First-time Annual Convention attendee.
• Identify as a member of an underrepresented or marginalized group within the equipment leasing and finance sector, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, neurodiversity, socioeconomic status, ability, or other aspects of diversity.
• Must have attended one of ELFA’s people power events in 2024 (Emergence2024, Equity Forum and the Women’s Leadership Forum)
• Demonstrate a passion for the mission and goals of the fund for education, emphasizing commitment of diversity, access, empowerment, leadership, and education.
• Must submit a completed application, Letter of Recommendation and statement.