The Apprentice's Troy McClain Joins National Mortgage Institute™ and Launches New Educational Programs

ORLANDO, FLA. (April 18, 2007) Troy McClain, whose street smarts and business savvy made him one of Donald Trump's most popular The Apprentice contestants, announced today that he is lending his successful business tips, as well as his name, to the Orlando-based National Mortgage Institute™.

The National Mortgage Institute™, working closely with Pinnacle Financial Corp., also based in Orlando, will begin a series of three-day, educational training programs in June. The programs are endorsed by well-respected industry leaders Barry Habib, CEO of Mortgage Market Guide, and Todd Duncan, founder of The Duncan Group. Additionally, Pinnacle Financial Corp. was named the nation's "most ethical mortgage lender."

The Mortgage Planner Training™ educational program is aimed at real estate beginners to seasoned professionals. Participants will receive in-depth training and insights on mortgage planning; and upon completion, they will have an opportunity to become a mortgage planner, loan originator or loan officer for Pinnacle or other lenders, contingent upon meeting company guidelines.

"There are tremendous money-making opportunities in today's real estate market, if you know how to find them," McClain said. "If you understand how credit and lending works, you can help people find the means to buy their dream house and make money doing it."

Part of the training will include McClain's "4 C's of Lending," which covers the secrets behind credit, capacity, collateral and character. The Mortgage Planning workshop will debut in Orlando, Fla., on May 20th.

About National Mortgage Institute™. National Mortgage Institute™ (NMI) is based in Orlando, Fla., and works with Pinnacle Financial Corp. to provide mortgage-related educational programs. In 2006, Pinnacle received Consumer Advocate Harj Gill's Seal of Approval as the nation's most ethical lender. NMI has the support of industry leaders, including Barry Habib, CEO of Mortgage Market Guide, and Todd Duncan, founder of The Duncan Group. For more information go to www.nationalmortgageinstitute.com or contact Janet Horvath-Pino, Executive Vice President, at 407-206-6512.