The Great Lakes Lenders Conference is the premier small business lending event in the Midwest, hosted by the Michigan SBDC and the SBA District offices of Cleveland, Columbus, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. Entering its 22nd year in 2020, the 2019 Conference was the largest in history with over 400 attendees. The conference features keynote speakers such as SBA Administrator Linda McMahon, Associate Administrator William Manger, experts from the Federal Reserve, and Great Lakes business leaders.
Who attends the GLLC?
The Conference is attended by individuals and organizations that are involved with delivering capital to small business. This includes bank executives, loan officers, credit analysts, underwriters, documentation specialists, loan service providers, attorneys, business consultants, NAGGL representatives, SBA staff and other individuals that support small business.
Where is the GLLC?
The 2020 Conference will be hosted at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The venue is located at 400 Renaissance Drive, Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243.
When is the GLLC?
The 2020 conference dates are July 22-23. Conference registration, exhibitor set-up, and independently organized social events are hosted on Tuesday, July 21. The evening of Wednesday, July 22, features the GLLC Networking Reception.
How do I sponsor the GLLC?
Sponsors of the GLLC seek to engage with the Conference audience, raise awareness of services offered to the lending community, and provide philanthropic support to a program that contributes to the growth of the Great Lakes economy and small business community. Contact Joshua Marko for additional information regarding sponsorship. You may contact Josh at (616) 331-7373 or markojos@gvsu.edu
Can I attend the conference as an exhibitor?
The GLLC features an exhibit area with 35 vendors. Space is limited and table location is provided on a first-come-first-serve basis. Exhibitors also receive one complimentary conference registration. Sign up as an exhibitor on the registration page.
How do I select which workshops I would like to attend?
There will be 7 breakout sessions during the conference for attendees to choose from. The workshops are offered on a first come, first serve basis. Find more information on the Workshops or Agenda page.
How does my institution become eligible for an SBA award?
Contact your local SBA District Office for additional information regarding the SBA Lender Awards.
What is the cost to attend? How do I register for the conference?
Conference registration is $320 for early bird registration ($370 standard). You may find additional information on the registration page.
What is the cancellation policy?
Conference attendee registrations may be cancelled within 30 days of the conference. Exhibitor registrations are non-refundable.