August 21-22, 2025
VEA Newport Beach
Newport Beach, CA
CONFERENCE AGENDA
12:00 PM
Registration & Exhibitor Set-Up Opens - Riviera Ballroom
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Amalfi Ballroom
VEA Newport Beach
Private Lender Educational Sessions
Join us in the Amalfi Ballroom for the Private Lender Educational Sessions. Each session will explore one facet of the business. You’ll talk with lenders of all sizes and experience levels to tackle challenges and help you connect with like-minded peers. Participants are welcome to come and go or stay for all three sessions.
Only registered Innovate attendees may attend the Educational Sessions.
Educational Session 1
Winning in a Crowded Market: Branding, Relationships & Referrals
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
In an increasingly competitive private lending landscape, it’s not just about what you offer—it’s about how you’re remembered. This panel explores the art of differentiation through strategic branding, strong client relationships, and powerful referral networks. Hear from industry professionals who have carved out a lasting presence by building trust, refining their message, and showing up with authenticity. Whether you’re looking to refresh your brand or deepen your client base, this conversation will give you actionable insights to stand out—and stay top of mind.
M2 Capital Partners
Arixa Capital
Fortra Law
Educational Session 2
From 10 Loans a Year to 100 and Beyond: Operational Systems for Scale
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Whether you’re a one-person shop or a growing team, the path to scaling a private lending business requires more than hustle—it demands systems, structure, and strategy. In this session, experienced operators will share the tools, tech, and workflows that helped them multiply their volume without sacrificing quality or compliance. Learn what to build, when to delegate, and how to create a scalable foundation that grows with you.
RBI Private Lending
Secured Capital Lending
Sage Credit Investment Partners
Fortra Law
Educational Session 3
Vendor Strategy Workshop: What’s in Your Toolbox?
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
In this interactive session, we’re flipping the script—our speakers will briefly spotlight key services every lender needs, then turn the conversation over to you. Collaborate with your table to discuss which vendors you rely on and why, compare solutions, and share real-world experiences. After the table discussions, we’ll open the floor for a full-room exchange. Whether you’re seeking new partners or evaluating your current stack, this session is designed to spark ideas, surface resources, and connect you with industry-tested tools.
The Mortgage Office
Lightning Docs
4:00 PM
Registration Closes until Welcome Reception
5:00 PM
Exhibit Set-Up Closes
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
The Monaco Room
VEA Newport Beach
Women in Private Lending Paint & Sip
Unwind and connect with fellow industry women at our Paint & Sip event hosted by Women in Private Lending. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just in it for the wine, this creative and casual gathering is the perfect way to relax, network, and celebrate the power of women in the private lending space.
Paint supplies available on a first come first serve basis
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Cucina Enoteca
Fashion Island
Cocktail Reception hosted by Anchor Loans and Deephaven
Anchor Loans and Deephaven is hosting a pre-reception at Cucina Enoteca in Fashion Island—swing by for drinks, bites, and great company before our official welcome reception kicks off.
Please RSVP for this reception by 8/20 at this link
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
The Sunset Lawn
VEA Newport Beach
Welcome Reception: Coastal Connections: A Seaside Soirée
Join us as we kick off Innovate 2025 with a refined coastal celebration that blends seaside sophistication with laid back charm. Inspired by the breezy elegance of Nantucket and Newport Beach, this evening invites you to unwind and connect in style. Think soft ocean hues, relaxed polish, and coastal flair. Dress to reflect the vibe, whether that’s flowy fabrics, linen layers, or classic coastal neutrals. Just be ready to mix, mingle, and make waves.
This special evening is proudly sponsored by RCN Capital.
This event is open to all Innovate attendees who have RSVP’d to the Welcome Reception.
8:00 AM
Registration Desk and Exhibit Hall Opens
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Hosted Breakfast
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Opening Remarks
9:15 AM - 10:15 AM
Fraud Alert: Protecting Capital in a Shifting Market
Investor confidence is wavering, and borrower fraud is a key reason why. In this timely panel, industry leaders will discuss where fraud is hitting hardest, which markets are under the most pressure, and how to proactively shield your firm’s capital commitments. From spotting suspicious borrower behavior to re-evaluating pipeline risk, get the information you need to stay ahead of the pullback.
10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Networking Break sponsored by Renovo Financial
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Private Lending in Focus: Market Trends, Challenges & the Road Ahead
Join leading experts in private lending as they break down the current market landscape, emerging trends, and key risks shaping the industry. This session will provide data-driven insights and expert forecasts specific to private lending, helping you navigate market uncertainty, capitalize on new opportunities, and stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving space.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Hosted Lunch - Sponsored by StackAI
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Keynote Speaker: Ross Hartmann - Kiingo AI
Ross Hartmann is the Founder & CEO of Kiingo AI, an AI implementation consultancy that helps small and mid-sized companies turn generative AI into measurable labor-efficiency gains. Drawing on 15 years in software architecture and automation, Ross guides clients—from $2 million startups to $700 million enterprises— through AI road-mapping, process redesign, and a 6-week AI Bootcamp. As an expert speaker on AI, he is recognized by Vistage as a top speaker and has earned a 100 percent recommendation rating as a Vistage® Speaker
2:30 PM - 3:15 PM
Networking Break sponsored by Renovo Financial
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Leveraging the New Tax Landscape: Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill for Lenders in 2025
The ink is dry on the One Big Beautiful Bill — now what? This forward-looking panel dives into the critical tax law changes impacting lenders, investors, and business owners. Get a clear understanding of the new rules, potential risks, and smart strategies to implement before year-end.
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Networking Break sponsored by Renovo Financial
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Marea Terrace
VEA Newport Beach
Fortra Law Launch Party
Join us for cocktails and appetizers as we toast to the successful close of Innovate 2025 — and the exciting beginning of a new chapter with the official launch of Fortra Law.
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