Navigating Payments 2025 — Why You Should Be There
Published on August 13, 2025
FEATURING:
Jennifer Miller, Senior Director of Business Development
Angi Farren, President & CEO
Kimberly Ellis, Senior Director of Member Services
The payments industry is evolving faster than ever, and staying ahead means more than just following trends — it means engaging with peers, experts, and the latest innovations. That’s exactly what UMACHA’s annual Navigating Payments conference delivers for the payments community across financial institutions, fintech providers, corporate end users, payment system operators, and more.
Scheduled for September 16–17, 2025, at the Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center, MN, this event brings the industry together for two days of learning, networking, and collaboration.
Why Navigating Payments Stands Out
Navigating Payments strikes a perfect balance: with around 350 attendees, it’s large enough to provide rich networking opportunities yet intimate enough to foster meaningful connections. As Jennifer Miller explains, “We have a Midwest-focused intimacy with national impact. Our diverse lineup of local and national experts delivers both cutting-edge insights and practical perspectives.”
But it’s not just about content. “We emphasize a crafted attendee experience,” Jennifer adds. “From panel discussions and gamification via a mobile app to prize drawings and social receptions, everything is designed to spark authentic connections.” One beloved tradition is the “UMACHA Gives Back” initiative, supporting local charities like CEAP and Ronald McDonald House Charities. This year’s highlight? A delightful Puppy Party featuring rescue pups onsite.
(Not many payments conferences are this groovy. UMACHA staff are pictured with 1974 lighting to celebrate UMACHA’s 50th anniversary during Navigating Payments 2024.)
Who Should Attend?
Whether you’re new to payments or a seasoned professional, Navigating Payments 2025 is designed for you. Jennifer notes, “From front-line staff to senior leaders, our sessions cover foundational, advanced, and innovative topics to help you grow your skills and stay ahead of industry trends.” Attendees will also benefit from the popular Professional Development Early Bird Breakouts which are focused on personal and career growth.
(Navigating Payments 2024 attendees observing a general session.)
This Year’s Theme: “The Journey Continues”
Payments are a constantly evolving journey, and this year’s theme reflects that ongoing evolution. Kimberly Ellis shares, “We’re continuing to look at the future of payments. Instant payments and new fraud monitoring requirements in the ACH Network are on the horizon, and we’ll have sessions focused on these critical topics.”
Get Ready to Connect and Learn
Kimberly is most excited to “spend two full days with our members and partners. Virtual events are great, but nothing beats the in-person conversations—the sharing of challenges, successes, and even summer adventures.”
(UMACHA CEO, Angi Farren, pictured with “Fred’s Friends” at Navigating Payments 2024.)
Takeaways That Matter
Post-conference, attendees can expect tangible benefits. “I hope members walk away with new network connections and at least one key takeaway to improve their organization,” Kimberly says. “Whether it’s answers to payments questions or resources to find them, this conference aims to empower.”
Don’t Miss This Year’s Keynote Speakers
A standout at the conference this year is Lee Wetherington, Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at Jack Henry. “Known for his passion and forward-looking insights on banking and payments, Lee’s sessions are always a conference highlight,” said Angi Farren.
We are also pleased to have Mike Timoney join us as a keynote speaker. Mike is Vice President for Secure Payments at the Federal Reserve, and he brings extensive expertise in understanding the payments and fraud landscape and identifying opportunities to strengthen security.
Ready to Join?
Navigating Payments 2025 is your opportunity to engage with the payments community, gain practical knowledge, and build connections that last beyond the event. Don’t miss this chance to be part of UMACHA’s premier annual conference.
Learn more about Navigating Payments or register today and keep your payments journey moving forward.
Stay connected with Jennifer Miller, Angi Farren, Kimberly Ellis and UMACHA on LinkedIn!