2026 AFSA Independents Conference & Expo

Event Overview

The 2026 AFSA Independents Conference & Expo is the premier executive event for the independent finance industry. Moving to the "Silicon Prairie," this year’s conference focuses on the intersection of traditional personal lending and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. It serves as a master course for leaders to modernize their operations, navigate complex federal midterms, and safeguard their businesses against emerging fraud.

• Date: May 18 – 21, 2026

• Location: Omni PGA Frisco Resort, Frisco, Texas

• Theme: Transformative AI & Emerging Technologies in Lending

Core Objectives

1. AI Implementation: Moving beyond theory to explore AI’s practical implications across the entire life of a loan, from digital originations and behavioral underwriting to collections and asset recovery.

2. Economic & Policy Briefing: Gain critical insights into the federal and state legislative landscape following the midterms, with a focus on CFPB updates and small business lending rules.

3. Operational Efficiency: Address rising delinquencies and charge-offs by leveraging "connected intelligence" ecosystems for faster asset recovery and improved credit risk assessment.

4. Texas-Sized Networking: Benefit from unique peer-to-peer engagement opportunities, including the AFSA Golf Outing at the world-class PGA Frisco courses.

Conference Highlights

• Keynote Speakers: Featuring AI Futurist Steve Brown on the coming wave of machine intelligence and Kara Lawson (Duke Women's Basketball Coach) on leadership and "doing hard things."

• Targeted Committees: Exclusive sessions for the Independent Auto Finance Executive Group, Law Committee, and the Operations & Regulatory Compliance Committee (ORCC).

• The Expo Hall: A high-tech showcase of business partners providing tools for automated fraud prevention, e-contracting, and cloud-based lending platforms.

• Culture & Workforce: Dedicated networking groups focused on workforce development and leadership strategies led by industry experts like Dr. Tony Bridwell.

Who Should Attend?

• C-Suite Executives & Owners: Leading independent consumer and sales finance companies.

• Compliance & Legal Officers: Navigating the shifting regulatory sands of 2026.

• Tech & Innovation Leaders: Tasked with integrating AI and machine learning into legacy systems.

• Operations Managers: Seeking data-driven solutions for delinquency management and vehicle recovery.

Location Spotlight: Omni PGA Frisco

Known as one of the fastest-growing communities in America, Frisco represents "bold vision and smart investment." Attendees will enjoy:

• Two 18-hole championship golf courses and a 2-acre putting course.

• The full-service Mokara Spa and adults-only heated pools.

• Legendary Texas hospitality in a state-of-the-art luxury resort setting.

For registration and details, visit: independents-conference.afsaonline.org