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For subprime auto dealers and industry professionals navigating an increasingly complex auto finance environment, leadership and collaboration remain essential. As market dynamics evolve, trade organizations continue to play a critical role in supporting education, best practices, and long‑term stability across the industry.
Arlington, Texas — June 9, 2026 — Agora Data, Inc., a leading non-prime fintech platform, today announced that Matt Burke, co-founder and President and Chief Operating Officer of Agora Data, has been named 2026 President of the National Auto Finance Association (NAF Association).
Leadership at a Defining Moment for the Industry
Burke steps into the role during a milestone year for the National Auto Finance Association as it marks its 30th anniversary. Over three decades, the association has focused on advancing education, encouraging collaboration, and promoting responsible growth across the auto finance ecosystem.
As regulatory expectations, technology adoption, and customer behavior continue to shift, the association’s mission remains centered on helping members stay informed, connected, and prepared. Burke’s appointment reflects both continuity and forward momentum during a period of meaningful change.
Read the full press release here.
Read additional coverage in Auto Finance News.
A Track Record Across Operations, Risk, and Growth
At Agora Data, Burke oversees corporate operations including due diligence, risk, and reporting. He also serves as CEO and co-founder of Center Street Finance. Across his career in consumer finance, Burke has sourced more than $5 billion in non-prime contracts and built deep experience helping dealers and lenders optimize originations to support growth.
His professional background spans portfolio acquisitions, risk management, collections, compliance, and product development. This operational breadth provides perspective that aligns closely with the challenges facing today’s auto finance organizations. Before co-founding Agora Data, Burke held leadership roles at SFG Finance, where he led brand management and special projects. During that time, he contributed to the development and launch of new financial products designed to support dealers and finance companies.
Longstanding Involvement With the NAF Association
Burke has served on the NAF Association Board of Directors since 2019 and has held multiple leadership roles, including Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. His long‑term involvement with the organization has given him direct insight into the challenges and priorities facing members across the auto finance industry.
Jennifer Martin, Executive Director of the National Auto Finance Association, noted that Burke brings a strong combination of operational leadership and forward‑looking industry perspective to the role. His experience across originations, risk, and product development, combined with active engagement in NAF leadership, positions him well to guide the association as it continues to evolve.
A Focus on Collaboration and Shared Learning
In accepting the role, Burke emphasized the importance of relationships and collaboration within the industry. While technology advancements, changing customer expectations, and increased complexity continue to reshape auto finance, the value of shared learning and peer engagement remains constant.
He also highlighted the momentum NAF has built through its programs and member engagement, expressing interest in building on that foundation to help members remain informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
Supporting Members Through Expanded Programs
The NAF Association continues to expand its resources to support members operating in a rapidly evolving environment. These offerings include NAF Networks, the Learning Library, the Annual Survey Report, Executive Exchange, and a range of compliance education and professional development initiatives.
As the association enters its next chapter, leadership remains focused on reinforcing best practices, promoting transparency, and supporting responsible growth across the industry.
For subprime auto dealers and industry partners alike, Burke’s appointment underscores the association’s commitment to experienced leadership and long‑term value creation.