Auto Finance News is pleased to announce that applications are open for the 2025 Demo Challenge at Auto Finance Summit East, taking place May 11-13 at JW Mariott Nashville.

As technology plays an increasingly critical role in auto finance, the ninth annual Demo Challenge leads the way with a platform for startups across financial services and mobility to showcase their cutting-edge technologies before a large audience of auto lending and leasing executives.

View the full agenda here.

Fintechs founded in 2022 or later with a focus on consumer finance are invited to submit an application that will be considered for inclusion. All participating startups are required to present a live demo at the event.

Apply to participate in the Demo Showcase here.

Past participants in the demo showcase include:

• AI compliance platform Kobalt Labs;
• Wholesale EV auction platform Plug; and
• AI-powered underwriting platform Karus AI.

Auto Finance Summit East 2026 brings auto lending, leasing and fintech leaders together to explore emerging technology, strategy and the future of auto finance. Attendees can participate in meaningful networking and forward-looking sessions on innovations such as e-contracting, AI and machine learning.

Learn more and register for Auto Finance Summit East 2026 here.