Shay Kleinschmidt Named Coleman SBA Franchise Lender Professional of the Year

February 4, 2026

Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher

Shay Kleinschmidt Named Coleman SBA Franchise Lender Professional of the Year

Shay Kleinschmidt was named SBA Franchise Lender Professional of the Year, recognizing her significant contributions to expanding responsible access to capital and advancing best practices in franchise finance. Through her strategic lender relationships and funding platform development, she has helped scale franchise lending production, strengthen franchisor and lender collaboration, and improve approval outcomes for franchisees nationwide. Shay is a respected industry thought leader and serves on the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Supplier Forum Advisory Board, helping shape policy, standards, and sustainable growth across franchising. Her recent promotion to Executive Vice President of Business Development reflects her continued impact in building strategic partnerships, identifying new growth opportunities, and advancing innovation within franchise funding.