SCHEDULE


In-Person Training @ NOW: October 13-14 | Fall Board Meeting: October 14 | NOW'25: October 14-17



NOW AGENDA & THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
Please check back frequently for the most up-to-date session and speaker information.
We are hopeful the shutdown will end before NOW. If it extends into next week, please know that NADCO and SBA staff have worked closely creating many sessions. If the SBA is not able to attend, rest assured that we are fully prepared to deliver all of the programming.



IN-PERSON TRAINING@NOW

IMPORTANT: In-Person Training has a completely separate registration process from NOW as well as separate fees.
Please visit the 504 Loan Closing, SBA 504 Lab: Dissecting Complex Eligibility, and 504 Business Development pages for more information.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Registration Open: In-Person Training
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

In-Person Training Networking Breakfast
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

504 Loan Closing Course
Caribbean Ballroom Salons 1-3
Instructors:
Todd Kobernick, Attorney
Kobernick & Kanelos PC
Darcie Brown, Processing & Closing Manager
Florida First Capital Finance Corporation



This two-day in-person course is approved by the US Small Business Administration and provides invaluable training for anyone involved in closing SBA 504 loans, including CDC staff and legal professionals. The course fulfills SBA’s requirement for attorneys attending an SBA-Approved Closing Course to become a “Designated Attorney”.




 SBA 504 Lab: Dissecting Complex Eligibility Course
Caribbean Ballroom Salons 4-5
Instructors:
Briana Rickertsen, Production Captain
B:Side Capital
Evan Shaw, SVP - External Affairs
National Association of Development Companies
Wayne Williams, EVP - Regulatory + Training
National Association of Development Companies

Are you facing a challenging debt refinance scenario? Struggling to structure a deal that checks all the SBA boxes? Wondering how to handle eligibility gray zones? This advanced course is built for you.

We’ll tailor the content to your real-world challenges—literally! Prior to the session, we’ll survey attendees to gather your most pressing questions and ensure the course reflects the latest guidance and most relevant case studies.

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM

In-Person Training Networking Break
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Lunch on Your Own


2:30 PM – 3:00 PM

In-Person Training Networking Break
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Registration Open: In-Person Training
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

In-Person Training Networking Breakfast
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

504 Loan Closing Course
Caribbean Ballroom Salons 1-3
Instructors:
Todd Kobernick, Attorney
Kobernick & Kanelos PC
Darcie Brown, Processing & Closing Manager
Florida First Capital Finance Corporation

This two-day in-person course is approved by the US Small Business Administration and provides invaluable training for anyone involved in closing SBA 504 loans, including CDC staff and legal professionals. The course fulfills SBA’s requirement for attorneys attending an SBA-Approved Closing Course to become a “Designated Attorney”.

 504 Business Development Course
Caribbean Ballroom Salons 4-5
Instructors:
Spencer Davis, President
Mountain West Small Business Finance
Curt Solomon, SVP and Business Development Officer
Business Finance Group, Inc.

Are you interested in becoming a 504 All-Star? This course will equip you with the tools needed to not only close more deals but also ensure your referral sources think of you first for fixed asset financing projects!

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM

In-Person Training Networking Break
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Lunch on Your Own


2:30 PM – 3:00 PM

In-Person Training Networking Break
Caribbean Ballroom Foyer


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Tuesday, October 14
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

NOW Registration Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer


8:00 AM – 11:30 AM

NADCO Board of Directors Meeting – CLOSED SESSION
Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
NADCO Board of Directors and Staff ONLY
Breakfast served 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Meeting 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM


11:30 AM – 3:30 PM

NADCO Board of Directors Meeting – OPEN SESSION
Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
Open to Members - Requires Separate Registration
Lunch served 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Meeting 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM



1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Exhibitor Set Up
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom
Exhibitors are allowed to begin setting up their booths for the evening Welcome Reception. No Attendees in the exhibit hall at this time.


5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Exhibits Open
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


NOW Welcome Reception
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom
Open to all Conference Attendees

Join us for appetizers and drinks as we kick off NOW'25! Connect with colleagues, speakers, and friends and get the conversations started NOW! The Welcome Reception is also a great time to pick up your badge and swag and to explore our Exhibitor Marketplace.


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Wednesday, October 15
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

NOW Registration Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer


Exhibits Open
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Breakfast
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


9:00 AM – 9:15 AM

NOW25 Welcome Remarks

Caribbean Ballroom
Speaker:
Rhonda Pointon, President & CEO
National Association of Development Companies

Hear from our industry leadership about the status of the CDC and 504 industry, what is on the horizon and other high-level updates.


9:15 AM – 10:15 AM

General Session 1 – Navigating NOW, Shaping Tomorrow: SBA Policy Developments

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Bill Habermeyer, President & CEO
Florida Business Development Corporation
Evan Shaw, SVP - External Affairs
National Association of Development Companies
Moderator:
Wayne Williams, EVP – Regulatory Affairs and Training
National Association of Development Companies

Join us for a timely briefing on recent policy developments, including updates to the SOP and new guidance on citizenship verification. The session will conclude with an open forum, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions.


10:15 AM – 10:45 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Break
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

Breakout Session 1 – Annual Reporting, Evolved: Your Guide to the New Form 1253
*CDC Board | Executive | Management Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Speakers:
Ann Munroe, President
Capital Matrix, Inc.
Julie Parker, President
Great Lakes Commercial Finance
Moderator:
Elaine Fairman, Executive Director
Business Expansion Funding Corp.

Explore the latest updates to the SBA’s annual reporting process, including changes to Form 1253. This session will guide you through the new structure, key compliance areas, and how to complete the form accurately and effectively.

Breakout Session 2 – Leveraging AI Tools to Elevate Your Credit Memo
*BDO | Loan Officer | Marketing | Third Party Lender Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
Speakers:
Angie Graves, SVP & Credit Manager
Florida First Capital Finance Corporation
Jon Main, Vice President
Alloy Commercial Capital
Greg Simmons, Business Development Officer
Business Expansion Funding Corporation
Moderator:
Tony Barengo, Head of Commercial Real Estate
CDC Small Business Finance Corporation

This breakout session explores how AI tools can enhance credit memos by improving sections like project summaries, financial analysis, and industry overviews. You'll get helpful prompts to boost clarity and consistency while reducing manual effort. We'll also highlight real-world use cases to show AI in action.

Breakout Session 3 – Hot Takes with Cool People: 504 Servicing Trends
*Closing | Servicing | Processing | Support Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 2
Speakers:
Sophie Dudley, Servicing Manager
AmPac Business Capital
Steve Wilson, Loan Portfolio Manager
Florida Business Development Corporation
Moderator:
Heather Newgreen, Partner
H & H Review Partners

Join us as we explore current hot topics in 504 loan servicing, with a focus on servicing center consolidation and its implications for efficiency and borrower support. We'll also touch on trends in automation, compliance updates, and portfolio management strategies.


11:45 AM – 1:00 PM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Luncheon
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Breakout Session 4 – “And the Marketing Channel Winners Are…”
*CDC Board | Executive | Management Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Speakers:
Penina Goodman, Brand and Marketing Strategist
National Association of Development Companies
Laura Kozien, Founder and Lead Marketing Strategist
Stop Whispering

Join our informative awards show-style session where we'll crown the champion marketing channels that add value to CDCs of all sizes. We'll evaluate the nominees—LinkedIn, Facebook, email marketing, podcasts, success story videos and more—all based on real performance data to provide you a roadmap of winning strategies.

BONUS: The Trifecta Award, given to the three channels that used together add the most value to CDC success, plus, we’ll share which ones to add if you have more bandwidth and budget.

Breakout Session 5 – Winning with 504: How Lending Partners Leverage 504 for Success
*BDO | Loan Officer | Marketing | Third Party Lender Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
Speakers:
Alexander Krueger, VP, SBA 504 Lending
Newtek Bank, NA
Carrie Pohl, SBA National Sales Manager, Emerging Middle Market
BMO Bank
Seth Wheatley, SBA Program Administrator, Business Lending Team
Mountain America Credit Union
Moderator:
Hilda Kong, SBA Solutions Director
JPMorgan Chase

Get an inside look at how TPLs operate, grow their teams, and align with CDCs for stronger outcomes. This session will feature lending partners sharing how they structure their internal processes, develop talent, and strategically collaborate with CDCs to drive success. Gain practical insights into what makes these partnerships thrive—and how you can apply similar strategies in your own organization.

Breakout Session 6 – Staying on Track: Tips to Prevent 504 Closing Delays
*Closing | Servicing | Processing | Support Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 2
Speakers:
Victor A. Diaz, Shareholder
Starfield & Smith, PC
Jenifer Parr, 504 Funding Coordinator
Michigan Certified Development Corp.
Moderator:
Todd Kobernick, Attorney at Law
Kobernick & Kanelos PC

504 loan closings can be delayed by issues that are avoidable with the right preparation and strategy. This session focuses on common challenges that stall closings—and how to resolve them early. Hear from our panel of experts as they share real-world tips for navigating documentation accuracy and closing coordination. Leave with proven tactics to keep your 504 closings on track!


2:00 PM – 2:30 PM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Break
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

General Session 2 – Fiscal Agent - 504 Market Pulse: What’s Driving Debenture Rates NOW

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Jonathan Sanchez, Managing Director | CMBS Trading
Bank of America Securities
Kavitha Vignarajah, Managing Director | Agency SPG
Stifel
Glenn Doran, Selling Agent
Eagle Compliance LLC
Moderator:
Frank Keane, Fiscal Agent
Eagle Compliance LLC

Join market experts for a timely look at the current forces shaping 504 debenture rates. From Fed policy to credit conditions, this session explores what’s happening now—and what’s next.


3:30 PM - 3:45 PM

General Meeting of the Members

Announcement of the New NADCO Board of Directors and Officers

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Rhonda Pointon, President & CEO
National Association of Development Companies
John Evans, CEO
Mountain West Small Business Finance
NADCO Chairman of the Board
Sara Vanhala, VP/Director of Marketing
Small Business Growth Corporation
NADCO Vice Chairwoman of the Board
Elaine Fairman, Executive Director
Business Expansion Funding Corp.
NADCO Board Secretary
Ann Munroe, President
Capital Matrix, Inc.
NADCO Board Treasurer

Executive officers of the NADCO Board of Directors report out to the membership the current status of the trade association. The newly elected NADCO Board of Directors and Officers will be announced.


Regional Caucuses 3:45 PM – 4:15 PM

Region 1 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom
Region 2 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom
Region 3 Caucus
Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Region 4 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom
Region 5 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom
Region 6 Caucus
Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Region 7 Caucus
Ocean Ballroom Salon 3
Region 8 Caucus
Ocean Ballroom Salon 3
Region 9 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom
Region 10 Caucus
Caribbean Ballroom


4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

504PAC on the Beach
Marriott Harbor Beach - On the Beach
Use the North Beach Access

Libations - Lite Bites - Live Music - Beach Fun

Vibe and groove to the steel drum, try your hand at bocce, giant pong, and more - all at the beach!!

Suggested Minimum Contribution to Attend: $75 per person


Add an Exclusive 504PAC on the Beach Bonus Experience:

Contribute at the 504PAC Champion or Patron level for exclusive 504PAC on the Beach experiences.

$500+ Contribution | VIP Beach Experience + More | 504PAC Patron
Exclusive 504 merch bundle + VIP Bar
  • 504 Cooler Backpack
  • 504 Turkish Towel
  • 504 Tumbler
  • VIP Bar Access
  • Signature Specialty Cocktails + Mocktails

$300 - $499 Contribution | VIP Beach Experience | 504PAC Champion
504 Tumbler + VIP Bar
  • 504 Tumbler
  • VIP Bar Access
  • Signature Specialty Cocktails + Mocktails





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Thursday, October 16
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

NOW Registration Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer


Exhibits Open
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Breakfast
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


9:00 AM – 9:45 AM

General Session 3 – 504 Technology NOW: Smarter Systems, Stronger Outcomes

Caribbean Ballroom
Invited Speakers:
Carson Pigg, Managing Consultant
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent
Cat Riddle, Partner
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent
Miriam Voigt, Associate Director
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent

Hear about CSA’s technology vision for reshaping the 504 experience for lenders, borrowers, and CDCs alike.


9:45 AM – 10:15 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Break
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


10:15 AM – 11:15 AM

Breakout Session 7 – Great Places to Work: Creating a Positive CDC Culture
*CDC Board | Executive | Management Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Speakers:
Elaine Fairman, Executive Director
Business Expansion Funding Corp.
Barbara Morrison, Founder & President
TMC Financing
Laurel Walk, Chief Operating Officer
B:Side Capital

Discover how CDCs are building positive, engaging workplace cultures that attract and retain talent. This session explores practical strategies for leadership, employee engagement, and organizational values. Learn what it takes to become a truly great place to work in the SBA 504 industry.

Breakout Session 8 – Optimizing Underwriting Workflows for Succes
*BDO | Loan Officer | Marketing | Third Party Lender Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
Speakers:
Joe DiStefano, President
Rappahannock Economic Development Corp.
Ankur Patel, Senior Credit Officer
Florida Business Development Corporation
Wenda Roycraft, SVP & Chief Credit Officer
WBD, Inc.
Moderator:
Danny Mangum, EVP & Chief Operating Officer
Mountain West Small Business Finance

Explore strategies to streamline your CDC’s underwriting process by optimizing operating models, leveraging contract underwriters, and improving hand-offs from the business development team. This session will offer practical insights to boost speed, accuracy, and collaboration.

Breakout Session 9 – CSA Operational Update + New 504 Funding Module
*Closing | Servicing | Processing | Support Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 2
Speakers:
Denise Martinez, Managing Consultant
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent
Ben McCool, Consultant
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent
Eric Moreno, Consultant
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent

Join the CSA team for all the latest servicing operational updates as well as hear about best practices with the new 504 funding module. If you’re looking for tips or have suggestions for improvements to CSA servicing or funding functions, this is the place to be!


11:15 AM – 11:30 AM

Break - Time to head back to the Caribbean Ballroom for the Community Impact Lender Awards, and the Lending Partners Panel


11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Community Impact Lender Awards | Lending Partner Panel
Caribbean Ballroom

Introductions and Award Presentations:
Rhonda Pointon, President & CEO
National Association of Development Companies
Sara Vanhala, VP/Director of Marketing
Small Business Growth Corporation

Panelists:
Katherine Lockhart, Senior Vice President, SBA East Division Market Executive
Bank of America
Tim McGoff, Chief Business Development Officer
Celtic Bank
Laurel Sendach, SVP, Business Development Officer
Harvest Small Business Finance
Bill Sommer, Senior Director, SBA Lending
First Citizens Bank
Chad Witcher, VP Business Lending , Business Lending Team
Mountain America Credit Union
Moderator:
Sara Vanhala, VP/Director of Marketing
Small Business Growth Corporation

Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring our 2025 Lender Award winners. Learn how leading CDCs cultivate strong relationships with lenders and gain practical insights into collaborative strategies and best practices for success.


12:30 PM – 1:40 PM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Luncheon
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


1:40 PM – 2:40 PM

Breakout Session 10 – Boardroom Blueprint: Facilitating CDC Strategic Planning
*CDC Board | Executive | Management Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 1
Speakers:
Kevin Lust, Director
Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois
Brooke Mirenda, President & CEO
Sunshine State Economic Development Corporation
Moderator:
Sara Vanhala, VP/Director of Marketing
Small Business Growth Corporation

This breakout session offers a practical framework for structuring and facilitating effective strategic planning for CDC leadership and board members. Learn how to turn strategic intent into actionable priorities that drive long-term impact. The session will also highlight how to align board-level strategies with SBA 504 program goals and compliance requirements, ensuring mission-driven growth and operational excellence.

Breakout Session 11 – Business Development Roundtable
*BDO | Loan Officer | Marketing | Third Party Lender Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salons 3-4
Speakers:
Barbara Arena, Vice President
Granite State Development Corp.
Tim Souther, Executive Vice President
Capital Partners CDC

Join an interactive roundtable where participants will share real-world challenges and opportunities in SBA 504 business development. Come ready to engage, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives from peers across the industry!

Breakout Session 12 – 327 Action Perfection: Strategies to Improve Loan Modifications
*Closing | Servicing | Processing | Support Track*

Ocean Ballroom Salon 2
Speakers:
Sarah Borgman, Chief Credit Officer
Midwest Business Finance Corporation
Colleen Guarnieri, Closing Manager
Bay Colony Development Corp.
Katie Lent, Closing Manager
Small Business Growth Corporation
Moderator:
Miriam Voigt, Associate Director
Guidehouse - Central Servicing Agent

Looking to boost your 327 approval rates? This session brings together CDCs with proven success in loan modifications and features direct insights from SLPC staff. Learn practical strategies, documentation tips, and process improvements that can help you streamline submissions and achieve faster, more consistent approvals.


2:40 PM – 3:10 PM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Break
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


3:10 PM – 4:00 PM

General Session 4 – On the Hill NOW: Year-End Legislative Outlook

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Todd Buchanan, President
Greater Texas Capital Corporation
Renée Bender, SVP Government Relations
National Association of Development Companies

Join Todd, NADCO Legislative & PAC Committee Chair, and Renée, NADCO SVP, Government Relations to get the latest on what’s happening in Washington, what’s moving in the 504 space, and much more. Trivia will be involved, and prizes will be won!


5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

NOW Shell-ebration

Marriott Harbor Beach

Oceanview Terrace

Shell-ebrate good times, come on!!
There's a party goin' on right here
With NADCO staff, the SBA team, CDC colleagues, partners, and sponsors
A dedication to last throughout the years
So bring your good times and your laughter too
We gonna Shell-ebrate and party with you!

Shell-ebrate good times with live music, caricaturists, giant jenga, corn hole, photo ops, specialty cocktails and mocktails, eats and much more!


9:00 PM

IMPORTANT: Our Shell-ebration must close at 9pm. The sea turtles need their beauty rest so all the sound and lights must turn off. You can take the party inside to the 3030 bar or head down Seabreeze Blvd to visit some local establishments.


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Friday, October 17
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM

NOW Registration Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer


Exhibits Open
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Breakfast
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

General Session 5 – Oversight Strategies NOW: Top Tips for FY26 Success

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Elaine Fairman, Executive Director
Business Expansion Funding Corp.
Wayne Williams, EVP – Regulatory Affairs and Training
National Association of Development Companies
Moderator:
Hilda Kennedy, President
AmPac Business Capital

Stay ahead of the curve with timely updates and actionable insights for effective oversight in FY26. From annual report expectations to emerging SMART review patterns and CA SBLC updates, this session is packed with practical tips and strategies to help you manage risk and drive performance.


10:00 AM – 10:30 AM

NOW Marketplace & Networking Break
Exhibitor Marketplace – Grand Ballroom


10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

General Session 6 – Collaborative Solutions NOW: Partnering with the Processing & Servicing Centers

Caribbean Ballroom
Speakers:
Evan Shaw, SVP - External Affairs
National Association of Development Companies
Gregg Swanson, SVP Chief Credit Officer
Evergreen Business Capital
Moderator:
Bill Habermeyer, President & CEO
Florida Business Development Corporation

Get the latest scoop on 504 loan processing and servicing, explore updates on loan package quality, top screen-out trends, as well as servicing action insights. Bring your questions, suggestions, and ideas.


11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Lunch on your own


12:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Registration Open: Specialty Workshop
Ocean Ballroom Foyer


12:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Specialty Workshop:

SBA 504 Partner Buyout

Ocean Ballroom Salons 1, 3

Panel of Experts:
Briana Rickertsen, Production Manager
B:Side Capital
Evan Shaw, SVP – External Affairs
National Association of Development Companies
Wayne Williams, EVP – Regulatory Affairs and Training
National Association of Development Companies

Partner buyouts are some of the most nuanced and misunderstood transactions in SBA lending. This workshop is designed to help you confidently structure and navigate these complex deals—from eligibility to execution.
We’ll explore real-world case studies, dissect SBA SOP guidance, and walk through creative structuring techniques that meet both borrower needs and SBA requirements.

NOTE: There is a separate registration fee for the workshop.


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