The 10th Annual Finance Forward Symposium: Empowering Women in Real Estate Finance

CREFC's 10th Annual Finance Forward Symposium

The CRE Finance Council (CREFC) is thrilled to announce that it will host its 10th Annual Finance Forward Symposium on October 1, 2026, in the heart of New York City. This significant event celebrates a decade of progress and empowerment in the commercial real estate finance industry, particularly focusing on women's leadership and development within this crucial sector.

The symposium will gather a diverse group of professionals from the sector, covering all career levels, to share insights on industry trends, engage in professional development, and enjoy valuable networking opportunities. A major highlight of the day will be a keynote delivered by Evy Poumpouras, a former U.S. Secret Service Special Agent and an experienced communicator. She will shed light on various aspects of human intelligence, focusing on important skills such as communication, leadership, and resilience, which are critical in high-stakes situations.

One of the unique features of this year’s event is a fast-paced series of roundtable discussions, termed "Table Talks," where participants can exchange innovative ideas and practical strategies tailored to elevate their careers in commercial real estate finance. This segment is designed to foster connections among attendees, enabling them to learn from one another in an interactive format.

Furthermore, the symposium will address the rapidly evolving landscape of commercial real estate finance through a session named "Market Crossroads." This discussion will delve into the current challenges and opportunities in the market, especially as new competitors emerge and regulatory landscapes shift, urging participants to adopt creative solutions and capital structures amidst cash flow stress.

Another thought-provoking session entitled "A Mosaic of Stories" will explore adaptive reuse and redevelopment projects. This conversation will focus on how to uncover hidden value in underutilized assets while navigating regulatory complexities, offering real-world lessons to successfully execute innovative projects.

Event Logistics

Date: October 1, 2026
Location: Citi, 45 Hubert Street, New York, NY 10013

In conjunction with the symposium, CREFC members are invited to a special guest bartending fundraiser, benefiting Living Beyond Breast Cancer, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Printers Alley, New York City. Industry leaders will step behind the bar to support this vital cause, competing in shifts to raise funds for the charity. The team that raises the most will receive bragging rights, adding a fun twist to a meaningful event.

To participate in the fundraiser, separate registration is required, which also includes a donation to the charity, along with food and beverage coverage for the evening.

The significance of this symposium is underscored by the excitement surrounding its 10th anniversary. Jeehae Lee, the Senior Managing Director at Bridge Investment Group and the chair of CREFC's Women’s Network for 2026-2027, expressed her anticipation for the event, stating, "Reaching the 10th year of the Women's Network Symposium is an exciting milestone, reflecting the industry’s commitment to learning, connecting, and growing together."

Through this symposium, CREFC continues its mission of supporting the professional growth and visibility of women in commercial real estate finance. The event serves not only as a platform for valuable education but also as a celebration of the achievements and contributions of women to the industry. As CREFC advances into another decade, the emphasis on empowerment, innovation, and collaboration remains paramount.

For more information about the symposium and registration details, please visit CREFC’s official website.

Join us in celebrating this milestone and look forward to an enriching experience on October 1st!