How CLFP Certification Benefits Equipment Finance Companies

As we celebrate CLFP Day on October 8, we wanted to take a moment to highlight the importance of the Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) designation and what it means for the equipment finance industry.

In equipment financing, expertise matters. The CLFP designation is recognized by the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) as the premier credential for equipment leasing and finance professionals, demonstrating a commitment to industry knowledge, continuing education, and ethical business practices. Today, the CLFP community is approaching 2,000 active CLFPs and CLFP Associates, representing professionals from more than 300 member companies across the industry. As the community continues to grow, the designation remains a respected benchmark of excellence for individuals committed to advancing their careers and elevating industry standards.

The Power of the CLFP Community

The CLFP designation is more than a credential, it’s a community dedicated to helping others succeed. The CLFP Foundation is supported by more than 200 active volunteers, including Board members, Academy instructors, mentors, committee members, Ambassadors, and Navigators. These professionals volunteer their time to mentor candidates, share industry knowledge, and help develop the next generation of equipment finance leaders.

The strength of this community is reflected in its continued growth and commitment to supporting one another. According to Mel Vinson, CLFP, Vice President, Academies and Development for the CLFP Foundation:

In the past five years, the CLFP Community has nearly doubled in size thanks to the dedication of our members supporting initiatives and candidates pursuing the certification, and to the overwhelming support of member companies who believe in the mission of building a better industry together. It has been an incredible joy to see so many people across a multitude of companies, geographies, and demographics pursue this certification so passionately and share so much pride in reaching the highest achievement our industry has to offer. To see such expansive growth indicates that the certification is truly something special, and the community is a very unique place to be. The greatest part of being a CLFP is the way this community consistently shows up for one another and builds on decades of dedication together.

By earning a CLFP, you’re joining a network of professionals who are committed to collaboration, professional growth, and advancing the equipment finance industry. More than a designation, the CLFP represents a community that invests in its members’ success and works together to strengthen the future of the industry.

Why CLFPs Matter

Working with CLFP-certified professionals provides several benefits:

  • Proven expertise in equipment financing, leasing structures, and industry best practices.
  • Commitment to professional growth through ongoing education and development.
  • High ethical standards backed by the CLFP Foundation’s code of conduct.
  • Greater confidence for customers who can trust they’re working with knowledgeable finance professionals.

AP’s Commitment to Excellence

At AP Equipment Financing, we believe investing in our people is one of the best ways to serve our customers. That’s why we’re proud to have 28 Certified Lease & Finance Professionals (CLFPs) on our team with two of those earning their CLFP Associate until they reach 3 years in the industry.

Our commitment to the CLFP designation dates back to 2008, and we’ve been helping businesses secure equipment financing solutions since 1998. By investing in professional education and industry expertise, we ensure our customers have access to knowledgeable financing professionals who can help them make informed decisions.

As we celebrate CLFP Day on October 8, we’re proud to recognize the professionals who have earned this respected designation and the companies that support their growth. The CLFP certification helps strengthen individuals, organizations, and the equipment finance industry as a whole. If you’ve been considering pursuing your CLFP, there’s no better time to take the next step and join this growing community of industry leaders.


About AP Equipment Financing
Founded in 1998 and based in Bend, Oregon, AP Equipment Financing is a subsidiary of Tokyo Century (USA) Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Tokyo Century Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, has 7,800 employees, and offers specialty leasing and other high value-added financial services in more than 30 countries. AP Fleet Management is a division of AP Equipment Financing.  

AP Equipment Financing is renowned for its reliability, consistently delivering innovative financial services and comprehensive  expertise to ensure customer satisfaction. The affiliation with Tokyo Century Corporation grants AP the financial strength and resources of a large organization, while enabling them to uphold the swift and personalized service characteristic of an agile independent enterprise.