Cooperative Connection Monthly News

September 30, 2026 | Issue 9

Financial Education: At the Right Moment

Using data and AI to deliver financial guidance when members need it most

Financial education has long been part of the credit union mission. Today, data and AI are creating an opportunity to make that education more personal, relevant and timely by recognizing when members may be approaching an important financial decision.

Whether someone is preparing to buy a car, purchase a home, manage debt, support a family or plan for retirement, financial needs change throughout every stage of life. The opportunity is to use member insights not simply to predict the next product they may need, but to understand when timely guidance could help them make a better decision.

The relationships, expertise and trust are already there. Used thoughtfully, technology can help ensure that when members reach an important financial crossroads, their credit union is there with the right information at the right moment.

Read the full blog to explore how AI and data can help make financial education more timely, relevant and valuable for members.

Reach the full blog from our EVP & COO, Melissa Pomeroy

Pocketnest: Pioneering the Future of Finance

Pocketnest, a Reseda Group company, helps credit unions deliver financial wellness guidance through their digital banking experience. Its AI-powered platform combines financial data, behavioral science and personalized recommendations to help members take action across 10 areas of financial wellness. The white-labeled experience is designed to deepen engagement while giving greater insight into member needs. By making financial guidance more relevant and accessible, Pocketnest helps credit unions strengthen relationships while supporting better financial outcomes.

Learn more about Pocketnest and meet them at APEX 2026 next month

Today's Debt Reality: Help Consumers Take Control

Household debt continues to climb, while consumers carrying credit card balances lack a plan for paying them down. At the same time, demand for personalized guidance is growing, creating an opportunity for credit unions to play an active role in helping manage debt. By using existing data to deliver tailored recommendations, proactive insights, and practical tools, you can help consumers understand their options and take steps toward repayment. The result can be stronger financial outcomes for members and deeper, more trusted relationships with your credit union.

Salus and People’s Credit Union Partner to Reach the Next Generation

Fintech partnerships are giving credit unions new ways to meet younger members’ evolving needs. More institutions are turning to outside partners to expand digital capabilities, introduce services and move faster than they may be able to on their own.

CCUA member People’s Credit Union recently partnered with Salus to introduce four solutions aimed at addressing financial challenges facing Gen Z and millennial members. The offerings include earned wage access, microloans, rent reporting to help members build credit, and predictive analytics designed to support member service teams.

For People’s, the partnership provides tools for members facing an unexpected expense or a gap between paychecks. Rent reporting also gives members an opportunity to strengthen credit histories through existing monthly payments.

The collaboration highlights how fintech partnerships help credit unions expand resources available to members while maintaining the relationships that set them apart. By working with partners like Salus, credit unions can respond more quickly to changing needs and offer solutions designed for the financial realities younger generations face today.

Want to learn more about Salus? Credit unions interested in exploring how Salus can support their members can contact solutions@ccua.org or visit www.ccua.org/salus.