Empowering Credit Unions in the Fintech Frontier

In the rapidly evolving landscape of fintech partnerships, the convergence of innovation and collaboration holds immense promise for credit unions. At the forefront of this transformative wave stands Curql Accelerate, a pioneering initiative launched in 2024 with a clear mission: to bridge the gap between fintech startups and credit unions. Launched by Curql and powered by gener8tor, this accelerator program represents a groundbreaking opportunity for credit unions to harness the forces of innovation and secure their position in the competitive financial services industry.

What is Curql Accelerate?

Curql Accelerate is a strategic initiative designed to empower fintech with the tools, resources, and expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the modern credit union landscape. By providing crucial mentorship and fundraising support, the program offers a lifeline to early-stage startups, guiding them from conception to realization and positioning them for success within the credit union ecosystem.

How Curql Accelerate Taps Underrepresented Founders

Curql Accelerate harnesses the potential of underrepresented founders by actively encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate and achieved 80% underrepresented founders in the first cohort. Through breaking down traditional barriers and creating a level playing field for all, Curql Accelerate aims to drive innovation and bring fresh perspectives to the forefront of the fintech revolution.

What’s in it for fintech?

1. Mentorship: Benefit from the experience of industry veterans.

2. Target Audience Feedback: Gain insights directly from potential users.

3. On-Sites: Engage in hands-on experiences at key locations.

4. Fundraising Support: Secure essential funding.

5. Access to the Curql Network: Connect with influential peers and leaders.

Investments In
Curql Accelerate Fintech

As part of the program, each startup receives a $100,000 investment, catalyzing growth and innovation. Additionally, startups benefit from mentorship provided by seasoned veterans within the credit union industry, who offer invaluable insights and guidance throughout the program.

The Heart of the
Program - Community

Navigating the fintech landscape can be daunting for startups, but with Curql Accelerate's comprehensive support, startups are armed with the expertise and resources needed to secure the mentorship and community necessary for their expansion. By providing startups with the tools and guidance needed to succeed, Curql Accelerate provides the opportunity for credit unions play a leading role in shaping fintech for the credit union industry.

Bringing Fintech to Credit Unions from Coast to Coast

Our journey with the first Curql Accelerate cohort took us to three distinct destinations: East Lansing, MI (MSUFCU), Jacksonville, FL (VyStar CU), and Olympia, WA (WSECU). At each location, fintech startups Casap, Peacefully, Privacy Lock, Ranqx, and Spiral engaged with esteemed credit union executives. The days were filled with enriching interactions, including insightful discussions during Power Hour fireside chats and Mentor Swarm sessions. From the scholastic college town of East Lansing to the bustling urban landscapes of Jacksonville, and finally to the serene surroundings of Olympia, each destination provided a unique backdrop for learning by asking questions, listening to answers, and exchanging ideas.

 

Risk Assessment Is In The Details

 

Credit unions face the challenge of meeting member demands while navigating resource limitations. Curql recognizes the importance of technology complementing the human touch rather than displacing staff. During the first cohort, strategic partnerships underwent rigorous risk assessment to safeguard credit union interests, emphasizing security and scalability. Detailed discussions delved into the intricacies of deployment timelines, integration processes, and sustainability assessments, ensuring that each partnership was aligned with the long-term goals of the credit unions involved.

 

Demo Day

Our final stop - the big day the cohort was working towards - was Demo Day at Transformation Thursday, an event hosted by NACUSO, Mitchell Stankovic & Associates, and Curql in Orlando, FL. It was a true highlight for the cohort, as each fintech took the stage to present their solutions to a large, live credit union audience. Seeing our portfolio companies shine was a proud moment for all of us at Curql Accelerate. A special highlight was witnessing and celebrating Casap winning the NACUSO Next Big Idea competition, demonstrating exceptional creativity and drive, and their recognition was well-deserved. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do—fostering innovation that directly impacts the credit union industry.

Accelerator Impact in Numbers

Behind the scenes of enriching interactions lies a realm of data that unveils the true impact of Curql Accelerate.

• 37 Office Hours
• 108 Applications
• 41 Interviews
• 5 Supported Companies
• $8.6 million raised post-program
• 5 new jobs created
• A perfect 100 NPS score

What's Next?

As we look ahead to the future of Curql Accelerate, anticipation runs high for the continuation of our exploration into the dynamic world of bringing fintech to credit unions. Through fostering fresh connections and uncovering transformative learnings, we remain committed to driving positive change within the credit union industry, one innovative idea at a time. For both credit unions and fintech, Curql Accelerate represents an unparalleled opportunity to stay at the forefront of innovation and secure its position in the rapidly evolving financial services landscape. With its emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, Curql Accelerate is not just shaping the future of fintech start-ups—it's revolutionizing what fintech accelerators can be for credit unions. Learn more at www.curql.com and https://www.gener8tor.com/investment-accelerators/curql.