This March will mark 30 years since the American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB), formerly known as the National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers (NAELB), was officially incorporated. The organization, which officially incorporated on March 15, 1991, is planning to celebrate the 30-year milestone throughout 2021.

The NAELB/AACFB was initially organized in the fall of 1990 when a group of brokers and funding sources came together in Atlanta to discuss their concerns about vendor fraud. Following that meeting, several industry leaders volunteered to help form an association for commercial finance brokers that was run by brokers. Shortly after, 132 brokers expressed interest in the newly forming association and several funding partners pledged their support. From there, the association was born and began its mission of supporting independent brokerages and facilitating networking with funding partners and service providers. The association has grown from those early years and has supported thousands of commercial finance professionals. The ideals of ethical practices and continuing education formed the cornerstones of the organization back then and are still very much a part of its core mission today.

To celebrate 30 years of “success by association,” the AACFB is planning a number of promotions and special recognitions throughout 2021. The association will also be using a special logo in recognition of the anniversary. This logo will be featured in AACFB publications, on its website and social media platforms, and in staff email signatures throughout the year.

“This is an incredible milestone for the AACFB. The fact that this association is not only still around but active and thriving is a testament to the passion and forethought of our founders and to the ongoing dedication and hard work of our volunteers and staff,” Cindy Downs, president of the AACFB, said. “The commercial finance industry has seen a lot of changes over the past 30 years, but the AACFB has been able to innovate and adapt to the times. I am excited to celebrate this achievement but also to see the ongoing success of the AACFB and our members.”