You may submit your nominee for consideration in any of the applicable 35 categories below.
Please keep in mind that each nomination must be unique to the specific category. Within each submission, outline how the nominee exemplifies the relevant characteristics and accomplishments. Submitters may nominate a candidate for more than one category, however, you must submit a separate nomination for each category.

Credit Unions

We are excited to introduce this new category that recognizes credit unions that are redefining the role of the branch by delivering exceptional, member-centric experiences tailored to their communities. Honorees demonstrate how physical locations are evolving beyond transactions into dynamic spaces for advice, education, connection and trust-building. 
These awards celebrate innovative branch strategies that align with changing consumer behaviors, blending digital convenience with meaningful human interaction, while enhancing accessibility, financial inclusion and community impact. Whether through new formats, technology integration, specialized services or unique partnerships, recipients showcase how branches remain a vital touchpoint in the member journey. 
Winners in this category exemplify how thoughtful design, strategic vision and frontline execution come together to create engaging, high-value experiences that strengthen relationships and position the credit union for long-term relevance and growth. 
We will recognize one Brand Experience credit union in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories:  

  • Branch Experience ($4 billion and higher) 

  • Branch Experience ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • Branch Experience ($1 billion and below) 

This category honors credit unions that embody the very heart of the movement, people helping people, through an unwavering commitment to the communities they serve. These organizations go beyond financial services to uplift lives, strengthen neighborhoods and create meaningful opportunities for individuals and families. 
Honorees are making a real difference where it matters most, championing financial well-being, expanding access, and building lasting partnerships that drive positive change. Their work reflects a deep understanding that success is measured not just in growth, but in impact. These credit unions set the standard for what it means to lead with purpose, demonstrating that community impact isn’t just part of the mission...it is the mission. 
We will recognize one Community Impact credit union in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories: 

  • Community Impact Credit Union ($4 billion and higher) 

  • Community Impact Credit Union ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • Community Impact Credit Union ($1 billion and below) 

This category celebrates the creativity, passion and purpose-driven work of credit union marketing teams who bring the movement to life every day. These professionals do more than promote products, they tell stories that inspire trust, deepen relationships and showcase the true value of people helping people. 
From bold brand campaigns and engaging social media to podcasts, video and community-driven initiatives, honorees demonstrate how powerful storytelling and thoughtful strategy can connect with members in meaningful ways. Their work reflects a deep understanding of their communities, amplifying voices, building belonging and turning everyday interactions into lasting impressions. 
These credit unions exemplify how marketing can be a force for growth and good: strengthening brand visibility, attracting new members and reinforcing the mission at the heart of the industry. 
Submissions should highlight how marketing efforts increased awareness, deepened engagement, expanded membership or supported broader organizational goals. 
We will recognize one Excellence in Marketing credit union in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories: 

  • Excellence in Credit Union Marketing ($4 billion and higher) 

  • Excellence in Credit Union Marketing ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • Excellence in Credit Union Marketing ($1 billion and below)

This category recognizes exceptional Presidents/CEOs who lead their credit unions with vision, integrity, and innovation. Honorees demonstrate strong strategic leadership, guiding their credit unions through industry challenges while driving growth, member value and community impact.  
Recipients set the standard for excellence by fostering high-performing cultures, building trust, and positioning their credit unions for long-term success while upholding the cooperative principles.   
We will recognize one President/CEO professional in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories:  

  • President/CEO ($4 billion and higher) 

  • President/CEO ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • President/CEO ($1 billion and below) 

This category recognizes those outstanding credit union executives in the C-Suite who not only support the President/CEO, but who play a critical role in shaping strategy and driving organizational performance. Honorees demonstrate leadership within their areas of expertise, delivering measurable impact through innovation, operational excellence and enhanced member value. 
Recipients exemplify strong execution, cross-functional collaboration and a commitment to advancing their credit union’s mission, strengthening both organizational success and community impact (all while making their boss look good).  
We will recognize one C-suite professional in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories: 

  • C-Suite ($4 billion and higher) 

  • C-Suite ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • C-Suite ($1 billion and below) 

This category celebrates credit unions that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible through technology, reimagining how they serve members, operate efficiently and compete in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. These awards honor organizations that are not just adopting innovation, but leading it, bringing bold ideas to life through thoughtful execution, strategic vision and measurable impact. 
From artificial intelligence and digital transformation to emerging areas like cryptocurrency and stablecoins, honorees demonstrate how credit unions are embracing the future while staying grounded in their mission to serve members with trust, security and accessibility. 
We will recognize one credit union in each of the following three Innovation in Technology nomination categories:  

  • Advances in AI – This award celebrates pioneering use of artificial intelligence to enhance decision-making, personalize member experiences and improve operational efficiency. Honorees showcase how AI is being applied in practical, impactful ways across the organization. 

  • Cryptocurrency & Stablecoin Innovation – This award honors credit unions that are thoughtfully exploring and implementing digital asset strategies, from crypto access and custody to stablecoin use cases and blockchain-driven solutions. Honorees demonstrate how they are navigating this emerging space with a focus on security, compliance and member value, helping bridge the gap between traditional finance and the future of money. 

  • Technology Project/Rollout – This award recognizes an outstanding technology initiative and seamless implementation that enhances operations and the member experience. This may include core conversions, digital transformations or strategic fintech partnerships, demonstrating strong execution and measurable results. 

This category honors the next generation of credit union leaders, dynamic, driven professionals who are already making a meaningful impact early in their careers. These rising stars embody the future of the movement, bringing fresh ideas, bold thinking and an unwavering commitment to serving members and communities. 
Honorees stand out for their exceptional contributions, leadership potential and passion for innovation. Whether driving new initiatives, elevating team performance or embracing emerging trends, they consistently go above and beyond to strengthen their organizations and move the industry forward. Their energy, creativity and purpose-driven mindset not only deliver results today, but inspire those around them and signal a bright, exciting future for the credit union movement. 
We will recognize one Rising Star individual in each of the following credit union asset size nomination categories:  

  • Rising Star Individual ($4 billion and higher) 

  • Rising Star Individual ($1 billion to $4 billion) 

  • Rising Star Individual ($1 billion and below) 

Credit Union Partners / Fintech / Trade Associations / CUSOs

These categories recognize consulting firms and organizations that serve as trusted partners to credit unions, helping them navigate complexity, seize opportunity, and deliver on their mission. These organizations go beyond traditional advisory roles, bringing deep industry expertise, innovative thinking, and a collaborative, results-driven approach to every engagement. 
Honorees demonstrate how their work has driven meaningful outcomes for credit unions, strengthening performance, enhancing member experience and positioning organizations for long-term success. Whether supporting strategic initiatives or leading transformative change, these consulting organizations exemplify the power of partnership in advancing the credit union movement. 
Submissions must include at least one client case study that clearly demonstrates measurable results and the organization’s role in delivering impact. 
There are six Consulting Excellence nomination categories. We will recognize one organization in each of the following categories: 

  • Credit Union Operations 
    This award honors consulting firms that have helped credit unions optimize operations, improve efficiency and enhance day-to-day performance. From process redesign to technology integration and workflow improvements, honorees deliver practical solutions that strengthen organizational effectiveness and scalability. 

  • Marketing 
    This award recognizes consulting firms that elevate how credit unions tell their story and connect with members. Honorees bring creativity and strategy together to drive brand growth, engagement and measurable results through campaigns, content and market positioning. 

  • Human Resources 
    This award celebrates consulting firms that help credit unions build strong, resilient and people-first organizations. Honorees support talent development, leadership growth, culture transformation and workforce strategy to ensure teams are equipped to succeed. 

  • Legal/Compliance 
    This award honors consulting firms that guide credit unions through an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Honorees provide expert counsel that ensures compliance, mitigates risk and supports confident, forward-looking decision-making. 

  • Strategic Planning 
    This award recognizes consulting firms that help credit unions define and execute their long-term vision. Honorees bring clarity, insight and structure to strategic planning, enabling organizations to align priorities, drive growth and adapt to a changing landscape. 

  • Mergers & Acquisitions 
    This award celebrates consulting firms that successfully guide credit unions through mergers, acquisitions and partnerships. Honorees demonstrate expertise in navigating complexity, aligning stakeholders and ensuring smooth transitions that create long-term value for members and communities. 

This category honors an exceptional individual consultant whose work is making a profound and lasting impact on the credit union movement. These are the trusted advisors who stand alongside credit union leaders, not just offering guidance, but helping turn vision into reality, navigate complexity with confidence and unlock new possibilities for growth and service. 
Honorees bring a rare combination of expertise, passion and purpose to their work, delivering insights that strengthen organizations, elevate member experiences and empower teams to succeed. Their influence is felt far beyond a single project—shaping strategy, inspiring innovation and helping credit unions better serve the people and communities that rely on them every day. 
The recipient of this award represents the very best of partnership, someone whose dedication, integrity and commitment to the mission of credit unions leaves a lasting mark on every organization they touch and on the industry as a whole. These are the people you're happy to see at a credit union event. 
We will recognize one individual for this Consultant of the Year nomination category. 
 

This category honors exceptional leaders from third-party organizations who play a vital role in advancing and strengthening the credit union movement. These individuals are more than service providers, they are strategic partners, advocates and innovators who help credit unions navigate change, unlock opportunity and better serve their members. 
Honorees demonstrate a deep understanding of the industry, delivering solutions, guidance and leadership that drive growth, improve efficiency and elevate the member experience. Their work reflects a commitment to collaboration, trust and shared success, helping credit unions thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive landscape. We love these people and appreciate that they are in our credit union lives. 
 We will recognize one individual in each of the following three Executive Leadership nomination categories:  

  • CUSO – This award recognizes a Credit Union Service Organization leader who exemplifies innovation, collaboration and measurable impact. Honorees deliver solutions that extend the capabilities of credit unions, helping them operate more effectively and better serve their members. 

  • Credit Union Leagues & Trade Groups – This award honors a leader who is a powerful advocate for the credit union movement, championing the interests of credit unions through policy, education and industry leadership. Honorees bring people and ideas together, strengthening the collective voice and advancing the future of the industry. 

  • Technology Vendor – This award recognizes a leader from a technology company who is helping credit unions modernize, compete and innovate. Honorees deliver forward-thinking solutions that enhance digital experiences, improve operations and position credit unions for long-term success.  

 

This category celebrates the organizations powering the next wave of innovation for credit unions, delivering bold ideas, smart technology and real-world solutions that help institutions better serve their members and compete in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. These awards recognize partners who aren’t just keeping up with change, but actively shaping what’s next. 
From artificial intelligence to digital assets and payments, honorees demonstrate how forward-thinking products can enhance member experiences, improve efficiency and unlock new opportunities for growth. Their work reflects a balance of innovation and practicality, bringing cutting-edge capabilities to life in ways that are secure, scalable and built for the unique needs of credit unions. 
We will recognize one organization in each of the following three Product Innovation nomination categories:  

  • Advances in AI – This award recognizes an organization delivering impactful AI-driven solutions that enhance personalization, streamline operations and improve decision-making. Honorees are helping credit unions turn data into action and intelligence into real member value. 

  • Cryptocurrency & Stablecoin Innovation – This award honors organizations helping credit unions thoughtfully explore and implement digital asset solutions, from crypto access and custody to stablecoin use cases and blockchain-powered infrastructure. Honorees are bridging the gap between traditional finance and the future of money with a focus on security, compliance and member trust. 

  • Payments Solutions – This award celebrates organizations delivering innovative, secure and seamless payment experiences. From modern card programs to real-time payments and digital wallets, honorees are helping credit unions meet members wherever, and however, they choose to pay. 

This category celebrates an emerging leader from a third-party organization who is already making a meaningful impact on the credit union industry. These rising stars are helping shape the future of the movement, bringing fresh thinking, innovative solutions and a deep commitment to supporting credit unions and the members they serve. 
Honorees stand out for their talent, drive and ability to deliver real results, whether through advancing technology, strengthening partnerships or helping credit unions navigate a rapidly changing landscape. Their work reflects not only professional excellence, but also a passion for collaboration and a belief in the unique mission of credit unions. 
The recipient of this award represents the next generation of industry leadership, someone whose energy, creativity and vision are helping move credit unions forward and setting the stage for what’s to come. 
We will recognize one Rising Star individual for this nomination category.