Stay Connected: What’s Ahead for Small Credit Unions

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 19, 2026

Small credit unions play a vital role in the Credit Union Movement, providing personalized service and meeting the unique needs of members and communities across the GoWest region. This fall, GoWest has even more opportunities for small credit unions to connect, learn and access resources designed to help them succeed.

From peer-to-peer Roundtables and the next Small Credit Union Accelerator Program cohort to a dedicated Small Credit Union Summit at MAXX, small credit union leaders will have several opportunities to share ideas, explore challenges and shape the future of the Movement together.

Small Credit Union Roundtable — Aug. 21

GoWest’s Small Credit Union Roundtables give leaders a dedicated space to connect with peers, share best practices, celebrate successes and engage in open dialogue about the priorities and challenges facing small credit unions.

The next Roundtable is happening Friday, Aug. 21, from 9–10 a.m. PT / 10–11 a.m. MT via Zoom.

This month, Jeff Ramos and Jeff Terry from TruStage will join the roundtable for a timely conversation, and as always, there will be time to ask questions, share what’s happening at your credit union, and learn from one another.

Roundtables are designed to be candid and collaborative, giving leaders the opportunity to learn from one another and bring forward the issues that matter most to their organizations.

Small Credit Union Accelerator Program Opens for New Cohort — Sept. 1-30

Small credit unions looking for more targeted support can apply for the next cohort of GoWest’s Small Credit Union Accelerator Program from Sept. 1–30.

The multi-year initiative is tailored for credit unions with assets up to $250 million and provides access to expert support in areas including coaching, marketing, digital strategy and operational development.

Through a variety of cohort models, participating credit unions can focus on areas such as board and CEO alignment, strategic differentiation, staff development and training. The program is designed to provide practical support while helping small credit unions build capacity and strengthen their organizations for the future.

The next enrollment period opens Sept. 1 and runs through Sept. 30. Explore the Accelerator Program cohort models and enrollment information.

Small Credit Union Summit at MAXX — Oct. 7

Small credit union leaders will also have a dedicated opportunity to connect in-person at MAXX 2026 during the Small Credit Union Summit on Oct. 7 in Denver.

The Summit will create space for candid conversation, practical insights and peer learning focused on the opportunities and challenges small credit unions are navigating today.

The session will feature two moderated panel discussions. The first will bring together small credit union leaders to discuss what is working, what is changing and where additional support is needed. The second will explore how credit unions of all sizes can collaborate more intentionally through partnerships, shared resources and other strategies that strengthen the broader Credit Union Movement.

Following the panels, participants will take part in an interactive roundtable discussion designed to surface common challenges, promising ideas and opportunities to better support small credit union success across the GoWest region.

Participants will leave with ideas for adapting to industry change, exploring partnership opportunities, and identifying practical strategies and resources to support their organizations.

Building a Stronger Future Together

Each of these opportunities offers a different way for small credit unions to engage — whether through an ongoing peer conversation, a deeper Accelerator experience or an in-person gathering at MAXX.

If you have questions about GoWest’s small credit union resources, please reach out to Paige Beffort, Director, Credit Union Development.

Posted in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Regional Member News, Small Credit Unions, Top Headlines, Washington, Wyoming.