The Five Star Story
Five Star Financial began with a shared vision to create a company where relationships are at the heart of everything we do. With over 20 years of combined experience in equipment finance, Aubrey Bowman founded AB Funding in 2020, while Nate Ford launched Milestone Capital in 2021. In January 2025, they joined forces to create Five Star Financial. These two industry veterans set out to build a vendor-driven, customer-first business that prioritizes partnerships.
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Our mission is simple: to be a trusted partner to both customers and equipment vendors. We provide flexible financing solutions that help businesses thrive, while enabling vendors to grow by seamlessly integrating financing into their sales process. At Five Star, we are committed to building a company where our partners, customers, and employees feel valued, empowered, and supported; where careers can flourish, and where success is shared by all.​
Five Star Executive Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Get to know the dedicated leaders who are committed to driving your success with innovative solutions and a customer-first approach.
COO/Co-Founder
Nate Ford
With 15+ years in equipment finance, Nate provides tailored financing solutions across industries like agriculture, software, trucking, and restaurants. He excels at building vendor programs, creating strategic partnerships, and structuring deals that drive growth.
As a former VP and SVP, he's led teams, boosted sales, and guided clients through complex financial decisions, earning a reputation as a trusted industry partner.
Originally from San Diego, he's now based in Texas, serving businesses nationwide with a commitment to long-term success.
CEO
Aubrey Bowman
Aubrey entered the equipment finance industry in 2017, quickly developing a passion for helping small businesses secure the capital they need to grow. In 2020, he founded AB Funding to better connect customers with essential equipment.
Now, with deep industry experience and connections, Aubrey is committed to disrupting equipment finance with integrity, transparency, and a people-first approach at Five Star Financial.
Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, cooking, music, ice skating, snowboarding, and disc golf with his beautiful wife and three daughters.
Chief Growth Officer
Sandra VanBuren
Sandra has 20+ years of experience in operations, accounting, and strategic management in foodservice, distribution, and financial services. She has driven revenue growth and client relationships at TimePayment, SEFA, and Glencore Ltd. With a strong background in the foodservice industry, she understands the unique challenges businesses face and helps create financial solutions that drive success. She is passionate about building partnerships and business growth.
Outside of work, she enjoys Florida sunshine with her family and a good bourbon.
224-344-2910
Vice President of Marketing and Business Development
Kim Lorang
Dedicated to helping business owners grow through strategic marketing, Kim brings deep foodservice industry expertise and a collaborative approach to Five Star. She strengthens partnerships by aligning marketing efforts with vendor goals, ensuring impactful, growth-driven strategies. Her vendor-centric approach reinforces the value of partnerships, making her an essential bridge between our team and the businesses we support. In her free time, she loves exploring new towns with her family and discovering new shops and restaurants in the process!
224-344-2910
Five Star Account Managers
You’re in capable hands with Five Star Finance's Account Managers. Each team member has extensive experience in financing, with a strong focus on direct vendor relationships. They are committed to prioritizing speed, transparency, and exceptional customer service, ensuring efficient and effective solutions. Their dedication is key to our ability to deliver reliable results for both our customers and vendor partners.
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