The Highnote 2026 Invitational: Connecting the Industry on the Course

Presented by Visa, with curated experiences from Rain and First Citizens Innovation Banking

During Money20/20 week in Las Vegas, Highnote brought leaders from across payments and fintech out of the conference halls and onto the course at Serket Golf Club for the Highnote 2026 Invitational, presented by Visa. Bankers, card program operators, investors and the Highnote team spent the day playing, talking and getting to know each other away from the booth and the badge scanners.

The video above captures the day. Here is a closer look at what made it work.

Why we host the Invitational

Money20/20 packs the industry into one place for a few days, but most conversations there happen in fifteen-minute blocks. The Invitational gives those relationships room. A round of golf is a long time to talk about what you are building, what is getting in the way, and what comes next.

“We’ve got a shotgun start, so big scramble tournament. We’re looking forward to a great day today on this lovely course in Las Vegas, presented by Visa and our partners Rain and First Citizens. Going out, having some fun, talking about financial services and technology, and most of all, having some fun.”

John MacIlwaine, CEO, Highnote

A golf clinic for every skill level

Not everyone arrives with a single-digit handicap, and that was the point. As part of its participation, First Citizens Innovation Banking hosted a golf clinic on the range, where guests worked on their swing before heading out. The clinic put a spotlight on women in fintech and gave newer players an easy way into the day.

“I’m all about the networking, the birdies, and the fun.”

Joanne Hoang, Director, Fintech, First Citizens Innovation Banking

“Anytime you get to play golf for work, I’m excited about that. Banks and fintechs working together is where the idea actually happens.”

Nick Christian, Head of Fintech and Specialty Finance, First Citizens Innovation Banking

Curated experiences from Rain

Rain kept the energy up all day. Its specialty bars on the par 3s and par 5s served cocktails designed for the event, and Rain hosted the longest drive and closest to the pin competitions, giving every foursome something to play for.

Presented by Visa

Visa served as presenting sponsor, and its team joined guests on the course and in the clubhouse throughout the day.

“Each and every day we all work together as an industry, both Visa and partners like Highnote, so that we can deliver a seamless payment experience that feels like that sweet 40-foot putt.”

Jim Filice, VP, Head of Money Movement, Visa

Voices from the course

“Getting in front of somebody, being able to shake their hand, have a little bit of fun with them is really what events like this are all about.”

David Galvan, Head of Issuing Sales, Highnote

“The gameplay was awesome. The competition was awesome. And it’s so great to be able to spend time with people that are like you, that are obsessed with the same space as you. It was loose. It was fun. And I wish I could run it back right now.”

Drew Glover, General Partner, Fiat Ventures

Connecting the industry. Shaping tomorrow.

Highnote is built for the companies launching and scaling card programs, and the Invitational is one more way we show up for them. Thank you to Visa, Rain and First Citizens Innovation Banking for making the day possible, and to every guest who joined us in Las Vegas.

We are already looking forward to next year. Connect with the Highnote team to be notified first when dates and registration details are announced.