CUCollaborate Blog

News & Insight From the Credit Union Industry

Critical Issues Facing Credit Unions: Key Takeaways from Industry Leaders

Advocacy

As we approach the 2026 midterm elections, credit unions face significant challenges that will shape the industry's future. Our recent virtual town hall brought together leaders from across the credit union movement to discuss advocacy priorities, regulatory concerns, and effective engagement strategies. Here are the essential insights from this critical conversation.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Oct 23

2025

Critical Issues Facing Credit Unions: Key Takeaways from Industry Leaders

Advocacy

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Oct 23

2025

Maximizing the Benefits of LID: Strategic Approaches to Attainment and Retention

Low-Income Designation

Discover practical ways to qualify for and maintain the NCUA’s Low-Income Designation while maximizing its benefits.

Lara Gooding

Published

Oct 21

2025

Critical Issues Facing Credit Unions: Key Takeaways from Industry Leaders

Advocacy

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Oct 23

2025

Maximizing the Benefits of LID: Strategic Approaches to Attainment and Retention

Low-Income Designation

Discover practical ways to qualify for and maintain the NCUA’s Low-Income Designation while maximizing its benefits.

Lara Gooding

Published

Oct 21

2025

Recent Changes to the CDFI Fund and the Need for Advocacy

CDFI Fund

Recent changes to the CDFI Fund require advocacy to ensure that the fund continues its critical mission.

Sam Brownell

Published

Oct 14

2025

2025 CDRLF Grant Funding Announced: Is Your Credit Union Ready to Apply?

New Credit Union Loan Fund

Discover how low-income-designated credit unions can secure funding through the National Credit Union Administration's 2025 Community Development Revolving Loan Fund (CDRLF) grant program and how strategic planning can maximize your chances of success.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Oct 1

2025

Credit Union Mergers: Board Member Fiduciary Duties & Strategic Planning

Credit Union Mergers

Explore credit union mergers, fiduciary duties, and board responsibilities. Learn how to evaluate merger partners, protect member interests, and implement data-driven strategies.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Sep 29

2025

The Hidden Power of Federal Multiple Common Bond Credit Unions

Field of Membership Expansion

Discover how Federal Multiple Common Bond charters and underserved areas help credit unions expand field of membership and grow beyond community limits.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Sep 22

2025

CUCollaborate and The Element Group Bring Transformative Branching Services to Credit Unions

Press Release

Partnership Combines Data-Driven Market Analysis with Award-Winning Design-Build Services

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Aug 28

2025

a photograph of the seal of the national credit union association on a building

Updated NCUA Data Increases LID Eligibility to 62% of U.S.

Low-Income Designation

The updated workbook opens new opportunities for credit unions to qualify for the low-income designation and access related benefits.

Luis G. Dopico and Trevor Moos

Published

Jul 23

2025

Collaborative SEO: A Lead-Generation Game Plan for Smaller Credit Unions

Marketing Strategies & Tactics

Collaborative SEO hub routes high-intent searchers to credit unions they’re eligible to join—pay only for confirmed members or loans.

Sam Brownell

Published

Jun 26

2025

a mirrored image of the capitol building in washington dc on rippling water

Regulatory Shakeup Fails to Slow Charter Growth in Q1 2025

Field of Membership Expansion

Charter and FOM approvals rose in Q1 2025 despite NCUA uncertainty. See the year-over-year trends driving credit union growth.

Chris Tissue

Published

Jun 5

2025

a man and woman dancing with their dog in a home renovation

TGUC Partnership Helps Credit Unions Grow Through Embedded Home Financing

Business & Growth Strategies

Discover how credit unions can grow lending and support their goals with flexible home improvement financing solutions.

Ben Hering

Published

May 16

2025

A top-down image of a neighborhood taken from the sky

Beyond Boundaries: A Fresh Look at Credit Union Market Expansion

Field of Membership Expansion

Learn how credit unions can use data-driven strategies to rethink Field of Membership, align growth with mission, and expand with purpose.

Emily Hughes

Published

May 13

2025

two people reviewing documents at a desk with a laptop and calculator on the desk

How Credit Unions Can Compete in Embedded Secured Lending

Business & Growth Strategies

Explore how CUCollaborate, LoanStar, and GreenLyne help credit unions expand HELOC lending with embedded secured lending technology.

Ben Hering

Published

May 8

2025

A black and white image of two people grasping hands in a handshake

Credit Union Mergers Can Make the World a Better Place

Mergers

Ensuring credit union mergers are in members’ best interests.

Sam Brownell

Published

Apr 30

2025

TGUC and CUCollaborate Partner to Boost Lending Access

Company News

New partnership connects CDFI credit unions with borrowers through flexible home improvement lending solutions.

Ben Hering

Published

Apr 25

2025

Woman at desk on phone writing on a pad of paper

Future-Ready Lending: How Truvion's Loan Solutions Support Credit Unions

Business & Growth Strategies

Learn how Truvion helps credit unions grow membership and lending with CDFI-aligned solutions across mortgages, personal loans, and small business.

Ben Hering

Published

Apr 23

2025

Impact Reporting and SEG Strategies for Credit Unions

Business & Growth Strategies

Learn how credit unions use data-driven impact reports to drive advocacy, boost SEG engagement, and support strategic growth efforts.

Ben Hering and Deliana Gamez

Published

Apr 18

2025

Truvion Partners with CUCollaborate to Bring Mortgage and Commercial Lending to Credit Unions

Company News

Truvion and CUCollaborate Support Credit Unions’ CDFI and LID Goals Through Unique Lending Products

Ben Hering

Published

Apr 9

2025

Two women discuss while sitting at a table together in front of a laptop computer

Busting the Myth of the Decline of SEGs

Business & Growth Strategies

SEGs aren’t dead—they’re evolving. Learn why they remain one of the most effective, strategic growth channels for credit unions today.

Deliana Gamez

Published

Apr 8

2025

A man and woman meeting with a female advisor, the man shaking the advisors hand

Maximizing Your Credit Union’s Potential with a Low-Income Designation

Low-Income Designation

Learn how credit unions can qualify for and benefit from a Low-Income Designation with insights and tools from industry experts in this webinar.

Jason Rusten and Lara Gooding

Published

Apr 4

2025

An image of a sprawling region of developed land, taken from a plane or high up in a building, overlooking.

Rethinking Credit Union Growth: Unlocking Market Expansion Opportunities

Field of Membership Expansion

Learn actionable insights on market expansion strategies for credit unions. Simplify growth, optimize field of membership, and measure impact.

Emily Hughes and Chris Tissue

Published

Mar 27

2025

CDFI Fund Moving Forward Amid Trump Executive Order

CDFI Fund

The Executive Order targets the reduction of non-statutory components of various federal programs, including the CDFI Fund.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 24

2025

A crowded university library with many students working dilligently at long tables

Position Your Credit Union for Long-Term Success with LendKey's Student Lending

Business & Growth Strategies

Discover how our new partnership with LendKey empowers credit unions to attract younger members and expand through student lending.

Ben Hering

Published

Mar 14

2025

How Mergers of Equals Actually Work in Credit Unions

Mergers

Learn how MOEs are structured, key factors to address, and how to ensure a merger that benefits members, employees, and stakeholders.

Kevin McBreen

Published

Mar 11

2025

CUCollaborate and LendKey Partner to Help Credit Unions Attract Student Borrowers

Company News

CUCollaborate announces a new strategic partnership with LendKey Technologies.

Ben Hering

Published

Mar 7

2025

Three hanging lightbulbs, two are illuminated

Top 3 Reasons to Leverage Impact Reporting at Your Next SEG or Community Partner Meeting

Business & Growth Strategies

CUCollaborate’s Impact Reporting Software makes it easy to turn raw data into compelling insights that drive engagement and financial inclusion.

Deliana Gamez

Published

Mar 4

2025

An image of an asphalt street with a white arrow pointing upwards

Retaining Low-Income Designation: A Guide for Credit Unions

Low-Income Designation

Maintaining LID status is critical for credit unions looking to expand impact and access key benefits, this guide provides key strategies.

Moriah Taylor

Published

Feb 28

2025

A laptop computer and the arms of two people writing notes and pointing at something on the laptop.

Embedded Financing Strategies for 2025 with LoanStar

Business & Growth Strategies

Learn how embedded financing helps credit unions grow, attract new members, and expand lending with LoanStar Technologies.

Ben Hering

Published

Feb 27

2025

Supporting Credit Union Advocacy Through Project Zip Code

Business & Growth Strategies

Credit unions can use Project Zip Code and impact reporting to strengthen advocacy, showcase their value, and protect their mission with data-driven insights.

Ben Hering

Published

Feb 13

2025

I woman with a red marker drawing on a clear surface with a chart going up and to the right.

Growing Small Credit Unions in 2025: Strategies for Success

Business & Growth Strategies

Small credit unions can grow by utilizing regulatory relief, grants, and FOM expansion. Learn key strategies to bolster financial stability and impact.

Chris Tissue

Published

Feb 10

2025

A row of 4 colorful pawn chess pieces next to one another.

Defending Credit Unions: The Power of Data and Collective Action

Industry News

Credit unions must unite to protect their mission. See how advocacy, collaboration, and Project Zip Code amplify their voice with lawmakers.

Ben Hering

Published

Feb 3

2025

CUCollaborate Expands Team for 2025 with Strategic Hires

Company News

CUCollaborate adds four strategic hires to enhance advisory, business development, and marketing support for credit unions.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Jan 31

2025

A photo of an LED light which says "OPEN"

CDFI Grant Freeze Lifted—What It Means for Credit Unions

CDFI Fund

After a brief freeze on federal grants and loans, the CDFI Fund has lifted restrictions, allowing FA and TA award applications to proceed.

Jeff Bailey

Published

Jan 29

2025

A human arm and hand grasping a gold medal with the number 1 on it, the image has a bright yellow background

Winning Credit Unions Are Diversifying Their Business Development Strategies

Business & Growth Strategies

Discover how credit unions are diversifying business development strategies. Overcome growth challenges, build partnerships, and drive expansion.

Deliana Gamez

Published

Jan 23

2025

A generated image of the US Treasury with open gates

CDFI Fund Opens 2025 FA and TA Awards Application Round

CDFI Fund

Navigate the CDFI Fund’s 2025 FA and TA application process with key deadlines, eligibility criteria, and funding strategies.

Jeff Bailey

Published

Jan 17

2025

A human hand resting on top of a neat stack of cash

Preparing for the CDFI Fund’s 2025 Financial Assistance and Technical Assistance Programs

CDFI Fund

Discover how credit unions can leverage the CDFI Fund's 2025 FA and TA programs to secure funding, drive growth, and expand their impact.

Jeff Bailey

Published

Jan 14

2025

An image of a caucasian man holding an automobile key fob in his hand, grasped at the end of his fingers.

Grow Membership Through Personal Loan Refinancing with NALN

Low-Income Designation

Learn how the NALN's innovative personal loan refinancing solutions have helped credit unions grow membership and achieve lending goals.

Ben Hering

Published

Jan 9

2025

A top down view of a geographic region with housing, roads, and infrastructure

Maximizing Growth Opportunities Through Field of Membership Optimization

Field of Membership Expansion

Explore key strategies on how credit unions achieved sustainable growth through Field of Membership optimization in 2025.

Emily Hughes and Chris Tissue

Published

Dec 19

2024

A human hand with a small green seedling and sprout rising from the center of the palm.

Four Business Development Strategies for Credit Unions in 2025

Business & Growth Strategies

Discover four key business development strategies for credit unions, like engaging digital-first members to fostering a mission-driven sales culture.

Deliana Gamez

Published

Dec 3

2024

What Credit Unions Need to Know About the CDFI Fund’s New Strategic Direction for 2025 and Beyond

CDFI Fund

Explore the CDFI Fund’s updated strategic direction for 2025, including certification changes and grant opportunities.

Jeff Bailey

Published

Nov 25

2024

Advocating for Credit Unions: Key Legislative Priorities for the End of 2024

Industry News

Review the legislative priorities from America's Credit Unions as the 118th Congress wraps up, and proposed bills that support credit union growth.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Nov 19

2024

A road sign depicting two lanes merging into one

Why Credit Unions Should Consider Joining a Merger Network

Mergers

Discover how CUCollaborate’s Merger Network supports credit unions at any growth stage with data-driven strategic partnerships.

Kevin McBreen & Luis Dopico

Published

Nov 13

2024

CDFI Strategic Planning Webinar Fall 2024

CDFI Fund

Explore how CDFI certification helps credit unions expand community impact and secure funding.

Jeff Bailey

Published

Oct 30

2024

How Credit Unions Can Strategically Approach Target Market Lending for CDFI Certification

CDFI Fund

For credit unions currently CDFI Certified or considering certification, understanding how to meet Target Market lending requirements is crucial.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Oct 24

2024

Ensuring a Merger Will Actually Benefit Your Members

Mergers

How can credit unions ensure that their members benefit from voluntary mergers?

Sam Brownell, CEO and Founder, and Luis G. Dopico PhD, Partner and Chief Economist at CUCollaborate

Published

Sep 6

2024

Investing in the Future of Credit Unions: A New Funding Initiative

Banking Technology & Innovation

CUCollaborate proposes creating a fund dedicated to supporting the launch of new credit unions.

Sam Brownell, CEO and Founder, and Luis G. Dopico PhD, Partner and Chief Economist at CUCollaborate

Published

Aug 13

2024

NCUA LID Workbook Updates: Insights and Opportunities for Credit Unions

Low-Income Designation

At the end of June, the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) published their 2022 LID workbook

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Jul 29

2024

You Can’t Talk Growth Without Talking Charters

Federal & State Charters

In the credit union world, charters are everything.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Jun 26

2024

LoanStar Technologies and CUCollaborate Form Strategic Partnership

Banking Technology & Innovation

LoanStar and CUCollaborate Partner to Help Credit Unions Retain Low-Income Designation and CDFI Certification through Merchant Lending Programs

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Jun 12

2024

How to Know Which Merger Partner is Best for Your Credit Union

Mergers

Discover key factors in choosing the right merger partner for your credit union. Learn how strategic alignment can drive growth and long-term success.

Sam Brownell

Published

May 17

2024

Growing Credit Unions with Low-Income Designation

Low-Income Designation

CUCollaborate is committed to helping credit unions attain and retain Low-Income Designation

CUCollaborate Team

Published

May 2

2024

CDFI Certification Updates: Primary Mission

CDFI Fund

Revised CDFI application requirements and how your credit union can prepare for them.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Apr 18

2024

Enough Room for Growth?

Business & Growth Strategies

This blog post will be the first in a series of three where we explore the three primary reasons we see for charter and/or field of membership changes.

Chris Tissue

Published

Apr 4

2024

Embrace Impact Reporting!

Business & Growth Strategies

Credit unions can leverage our metrics and impact reporting to quantify their societal and economic contributions beyond traditional benchmarks.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Apr 1

2024

Grow Your Credit Union with Strategic Insights

Business & Growth Strategies

We offer a suite of analytical services empowering credit unions with data-driven insights for strategic growth, member retention, and informed decision-making.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 28

2024

Photo of a collage celebrating women's history month.

Celebrating CUCollaborate's Trailblazers and Changemakers this Women's History Month

Company News

Celebrate Women's History Month with CUCollaborate

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 27

2024

HCUA and CUCollaborate Align to Expand Reach of Healthcare Credit Unions

Company News

Explore how the HCUA and CUCollaborate partnership is driving growth, innovation, and enhanced service for healthcare credit unions.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 11

2024

Celebrating Women's History Month

Industry News

Meet three trailblazers who helped shape the cooperative landscape.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 6

2024

Mapping 2.0 is Here!

Banking Technology & Innovation

The transition to Mapping 2.0 marks a significant leap forward for credit unions.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Mar 1

2024

AACUC and CUCollaborate Band Together to Support Credit Union Growth Through Impact Analytics

Company News

CUCollaborate partnered with the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) to strengthen credit union expansion efforts and enhance outreach to underserved communities, driving meaningful impact and financial inclusion.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Feb 27

2024

National Auto Loan Network and CUCollaborate Partner

Company News

NALN and CUCollaborate Partner to Help Credit Unions Retain Low-Income Designation and CDFI Certification

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Dec 26

2023

Photo of a presentation slide displaying "Updated CDFI Certification Requirements"

CUCollaborate Hosts CDFI Informational Webinar

CDFI Fund

Learn how CUCollaborate's CDFI Informational Webinar helps credit unions navigate certification, funding opportunities, and strategic growth.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Dec 21

2023

CFPB’s Chopra: Overdraft Rule Wouldn’t Harm Liquidity

CFPB

Bureau director says consumers still could use overdrafts as source of available assets.

David Baumann

Published

Dec 1

2023

House Republicans Bluntly Voicing Their Contempt for CFPB

CFPB

GOP members take aim at agency at house hearing.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 30

2023

As Interchange Bill Languishes, Supporters and Opponents Get Creative

Industry News

Lobbying over legislation that would change the rules governing the credit card processing system is continuing unabated—and a bit offbeat.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 29

2023

NCUA to Resume Assessing Civil Penalties for Late Call Reports

Industry News

Agency had suspended late fees during the pandemic.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 28

2023

Climate Advocates Call for NCUA to Establish ‘Resilience Office’

NCUA

Groups push for increased budget focus on climate issues.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 28

2023

House to Vote on Plan to Kill CFPB Small Business Rule

CFPB

The Senate already passed the measure, but president has threatened veto.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 27

2023

CFPB’s Chopra Heads to Capitol Hill Amid Public Support for Agency

CFPB

A new poll shows likely voters support the agency.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 27

2023

NASCUS: Contributions of State Regulators Overlooked in NCUA Budget

NCUA

Acknowledgement of state fees is relegated to footnote.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 24

2023

CU Trades, Consumer Groups Clash Over CFPB Arbitration Petition

Industry News

Financial trade groups contend agency is prohibited from issuing rule.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 22

2023

NCUA Inspector General Auditing CU Chartering Process

Industry News

IG wants to know if streamlining is working.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 21

2023

Coalition Intensifying Lobbying on Interchange Bill

Industry News

With similar names, it’s difficult to sort out who stands for what.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 20

2023

Budget Hearing: CU Trades Clash with Harper Over Agency Priorities

Industry News

Budget Hearing: CU Trades Clash with Harper Over Agency Priorities

David Baumann

Published

Nov 17

2023

NCUA: Large Credit Unions Showing Signs of Stress

NCUA

Liquidity, interest rates and credit risk contributing to problem.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 16

2023

GOP Rep. Hill Wants to Examine Bank Purchases by Credit Unions

Industry News

House committee vice chairman raises tax questions during hearing.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 16

2023

Harper Submits Familiar Legislative Wish List to Senate Committee

NCUA

NCUA Chairman renews request for third-party supervision, CLF changes.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 15

2023

CU Trades: NCUA Doesn’t Need Beefed Up Consumer Protection Exams

NCUA

Comments from CUNA and NAFCU come in advance of Thursday’s hearing.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 14

2023

House Votes Show Support for CDFI, CFPB

Industry News

FY24 Financial Services appropriations bill pulled for unrelated reasons.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 13

2023

CU Trades Support Proposed CFPB Digital Wallet, Payment Rule

CFPB

Rule would enforce consumer protection laws at nonbank firms.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 9

2023

NCUA Charters Young Community FCU in Kentucky

NCUA

Charter is the third issued by the agency this year.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 8

2023

House to Consider Abolishing CFPB, CDFI Program

Industry News

Votes will focus on amendments to FY24 Financial Services spending bill.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 8

2023

Senate Banking Committee Advances Otsuka Nomination to NCUA Board

NCUA

Nomination now goes to the full Senate.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 7

2023

CFPB: States Are Subjecting Credit Unions to Reinvestment Laws

CFPB

Federal government does not include credit unions in CRA rules.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 7

2023

Exterior of the Department of the Treasury.

CDFI Fund Outlines Steps to Take Ahead of FA Award Announcement

CDFI Fund

Application will be released soon.

CUCollaborate Team

Published

Nov 6

2023

Banks Renew Fight Over Military Base Rent Benefits for Credit Unions

Industry News

Banks deserve said benefit that credit unions receive, witness says.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 3

2023

CUNA-NAFCU Merger Approved

Industry News

America’s Credit Unions will be formed on Jan. 1, 2024.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 2

2023

NCUA: In 2022, CUs Provided More Mortgages Than Banks to Targeted Populations

NCUA

Study used complex formula developed by FHFA.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 2

2023

GOP Senators: Lending Guidance Based on Immigration Status Is Irresponsible

Industry News

Senators call on CFPB, DoJ to withdraw controversial guidance.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 1

2023

House Republicans Push Amendments to Eliminate CDFI, CFPB

CDFI Fund

Members propose amendments to Financial Services funding measure.

David Baumann

Published

Nov 1

2023

GAO: Blacks, Hispanics Face Higher Interest Rates, Fees on Credit Cards

Industry News

New report comes as credit card companies come under fire.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 31

2023

A marijuana leaf atop a hundred dollar bill.

Marijuana Businesses Sue to Gain Access to Financial Services

Industry News

Massachusetts businesses say federal law interferes with intrastate commerce.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 30

2023

NCUA Proposes 11% Increase in Operating Budget

NCUA

If approved, plan calls for 28 new positions at the agency.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 27

2023

CU Trades Blast Proposed Debit Swipe Fee Cut

Industry News

Decision comes as Congress considers credit card interchange plan.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 27

2023

Harper: Credit Unions Must Cut Fees to Remain Competitive

NCUA

NCUA Chairman says banks are slashing overdraft, NSF fees.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 26

2023

Dems Push Consumer Protection Legislation Ahead of Potential Shutdown

Industry News

Guidance would impact credit unions and banks.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 25

2023

Navy Federal: NCUA’s Denial of Share Insurance Is National Security Matter

NCUA

Attorneys for the credit union contend that agency may insure deposits for overseas program.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 24

2023

A person examining their personal financial data on a tablet.

Credit Unions, Community Bankers Agree: CFPB Data Rule Needs Work

CFPB

Trade groups say move toward ‘open banking’ is fraught with peril.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 23

2023

NCUA Board Nominee: Credit Unions Should Manage Climate Risks

NCUA

Tanya Otsuka testifies at confirmation hearing.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 20

2023

CFPB Proposes Rule to Ease Consumer Access to Financial Data

CFPB

Long-awaited proposal aims to create competition in financial industry.

David Baumann

Published

Oct 19

2023