Strategic partnership will expand cross-border collaboration, enhance industry standards, and promote responsible growth for U.S. and Canadian financial institutions

Toronto, Canada (March 19, 2026) – The American Fintech Council (AFC), the largest U.S. industry association representing both responsible fintech companies and innovative banks, and  the Canadian Lenders Association, the largest finance organization in Canada representing banks, credit unions, fintechs, and specialty finance providers, announced a strategic partnership to advance cross-border collaboration between the United States and Canada.

This partnership comes at a pivotal moment for both countries’ fintech ecosystem, including the rollout of Canada’s open banking framework, an evolving regulatory landscape in the U.S., and both countries refining AI underwriting frameworks. As fintech and alternative lending models scale across jurisdictions, firms increasingly require structured pathways to navigate regulatory complexity and competitive dynamics. AFC and CLA’s partnership establishes a framework to support market entry, regulatory dialogue, and commercial engagement between the two largest financial markets in North America.

“As financial services continue to evolve across North America, collaboration between industry leaders is essential,” said Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. “The Canadian Lenders Association brings deep expertise in borrower-centric standards, innovative underwriting, and responsible access to credit. We are excited to partner with CLA to advance thoughtful public policy, drive sustainable growth, and reinforce strong consumer protections across our respective markets.”

“This partnership creates a practical bridge between the Canadian and U.S. fintech ecosystems,” said Gary Schwartz, President & CEO of the Canadian Lenders Association. “By aligning dialogue, market access, and policy engagement, we are strengthening responsible cross-border growth for our members.”

Through this partnership, AFC and the CLA will advance cross-border collaboration by supporting U.S. fintechs entering Canada and Canadian institutions engaging the U.S. market. They will also develop joint thought leadership initiatives, including policy papers, research briefs, and executive roundtables focused on regulatory alignment, innovation, and responsible lending. Additionally, AFC and CLA will host and co-promote events and forums in both countries, providing direct opportunities for dialogue among lenders, fintech leaders, regulators, and policymakers.

About the American Fintech Council
A standards-based organization, the American Fintech Council (AFC) is the largest and most diverse trade association representing financial technology (fintech) companies and innovative banks. On behalf of over 150 member companies and partners, AFC promotes a transparent, inclusive, and customer-centric financial system by supporting responsible innovation in financial services and encouraging sound public policy. AFC members foster competition in consumer finance and pioneer products to better serve underserved consumer segments and geographies.

About the Canadian Lenders Association
The Canadian Lenders Association (CLA) represents banks, credit unions, non bank lenders, fintechs, and ecosystem partners committed to innovation, transparency, and responsible access to credit for Canadians. The CLA provides advocacy, research, peer collaboration platforms, and sector-specific events that support stronger consumer and business lending outcomes nationwide.

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