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Chad Eberly Recognized for Excellence in Specialty Finance

In an industry where innovation and leadership are critical, Chad Eberly, the General Manager of Encore Funding, has made a significant impact. Recently honored with the 2026 ABF Journal Legends & Leaders Award in the NextGen category, Eberly's contributions to specialty finance have garnered recognition among peers and industry leaders alike.

Encore Funding specializes in alternative lending, providing essential capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs across various sectors, particularly staffing and transportation. Since its inception, the firm has been pivotal in helping businesses navigate the complexities of financial resources, especially in areas often overlooked by traditional funding sources.

Eberly co-founded Encore Funding after gaining extensive experience at PwC, where he worked with major banking clients, hedge funds, and insurance companies. His well-rounded background equipped him with the insights necessary for understanding the nuances of the finance industry. As soon as he joined Encore, he started building the operational infrastructure that would become the backbone of the firm.

The Legends & Leaders Award presented by ABF Journal
ecognizes individuals who exemplify excellence and have set high standards in the industry through exceptional leadership, innovative practices, and a mastery of deal-making. For Eberly, this award is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the collective success of the Encore team and their dedication to client service.

Eberly believes in a fundamentally relationship-driven approach to specialty finance. "This recognition is a reflection of the team we've built and the clients we've had the privilege of serving," Eberly stated. He emphasizes that integrity and customer service are at the heart of Encore's operations, guiding their interactions with clients and partners.

In recent times, Eberly's efforts to forge stronger partnerships with banks have enabled Encore to be recognized as a go-to alternative financier for institutions dealing with clients that may not fit traditional credit models. He sees this unique positioning as a winning formula for generating high-quality leads and helping businesses thrive.

Eberly's philosophy centers around a disciplined focus on four key pillars: credit, new clients, existing clients, and team development. This framework is essential to Encore's sustainability and future growth, allowing the firm to navigate the changing landscape of finance adeptly.

A staunch advocate for small and medium-sized businesses, Eberly is committed to ensuring they receive the financial support they require. He asserts that many traditional lending institutions do not sufficiently serve this sector, leaving them in need of alternative finance solutions.

"I believe the industry must improve in educating small and medium-sized businesses about their alternative finance options," he explained. Eberly argues that these businesses often benefit from the flexibility and support that comes with alternative financing, as it tends to be more adaptable during various economic conditions.

With a focus on enhancing access to such solutions, Eberly has dedicated himself to expanding the scope of Encore's offerings. His vision is to empower businesses with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive, particularly during challenging times.

The 2026 ABF Journal Legends & Leaders award recipients list, including Eberly's profile, is available in the journal's digital publication, showcasing the talents and contributions of esteemed professionals in the finance sector. As Eberly continues to lead Encore Funding towards new horizons, his achievements serve as an inspiration to those in the specialty finance industry, affirming the value of strong relationships and innovative solutions in fostering growth.