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

This award will honor credit unions that exemplify outstanding commitment to serving and enhancing the communities it operates in. This accolade celebrates initiatives that address pressing local needs, promote financial literacy and foster economic empowerment. The credit unions have demonstrated a deep understanding of community dynamics, forging meaningful partnerships and delivering innovative programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families. Their dedication to social responsibility sets a benchmark for excellence within the credit union movement.
There are three Community Impact nomination categories for credit unions. We will be recognizing one nominee in each of the following credit union asset size 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)

For these awards, we will recognize exceptional leaders in the positions of CEO, CFO and COO who have steered their credit union with vision, integrity and innovation. These awards celebrate the CEOs, CFOs and COOs who’ve demonstrated outstanding commitment to member service, community impact and organizational growth. The recipient of each award has exhibited strategic acumen in navigating industry challenges while fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within their team. Their leadership inspires trust, drives sustainable success and sets a benchmark for excellence in the credit union sector.
There are nine Executive Leadership nomination categories for individuals. We will be recognizing a CEO, CFO and COO in each of the following credit union asset size categories:

  • CEO ($4 billion and higher)
  • CFO ($4 billion and higher)
  • COO ($4 billion and higher)
     
  • CEO ($1 billion to $4 billion)
  • CFO ($1 billion to $4 billion)
  • COO ($1 billion to $4 billion)
     
  • CEO ($1 billion and below)
  • CFO ($1 billion and below)
  • COO ($1 billion and below)

This award honors credit unions that demonstrate exceptional creativity, strategy, and impact in their marketing initiatives. From brand campaigns and social media strategies to digital media, podcasts, commercials, and other public-facing channels, this accolade recognizes marketing teams that amplify the credit union mission while driving measurable results. Winning credit unions will have successfully leveraged innovative storytelling, data-informed execution, and dynamic content to connect their brand with diverse audiences—building loyalty, increasing visibility, and deepening community engagement. Eligible campaigns may include, but are not limited to, broadcast and streaming ads, influencer partnerships, podcast series, community initiatives, digital-first campaigns, and experiential marketing. Submissions should demonstrate how these efforts strengthened brand awareness, increased membership, or supported the credit union’s overall business goals.
There are three Excellence in Marketing nomination categories for credit unions. We will be recognizing one nominee in each of the following credit union asset size categories:

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

This award will honor forward-thinking credit union CTO/CIOs who leverage technological advancements to enhance member experiences and operational efficiency. This accolade celebrates these professionals’ pioneering initiatives in digital banking, fintech partnerships and innovative solutions that streamline processes and drive financial inclusion. The recipients demonstrate a commitment to embracing emerging technologies, such as AI, blockchain and mobile platforms, to deliver seamless services and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. Their innovative approaches set a new standard for excellence in the industry.
There are three Innovation in Technology nomination categories for individuals. We will be recognizing one ‘CTO/CIO of the Year’ in each of the following credit union asset size categories:

  • Innovation in Technology CTO/CIO of the Year ($4 billion and higher)
  • Innovation in Technology CTO/CIO of the Year ($1 billion to $4 billion)
  • Innovation in Technology CTO/CIO of the Year ($1 billion and below)

The following awards celebrate the credit unions that are on the leading edge of technological innovation for the industry. These accolades honor those who redefine banking experiences through seamless rollouts, advanced AI integration, mobile banking advancements and robust cybersecurity measures, setting new standards for technological innovation and security in the industry.
There are four Innovation in Technology nomination categories for credit unions. We will be recognizing one nominee in each of the following categories:

  • Advances in AI – This award celebrates pioneering advances in AI that revolutionize operations, personalization and decision-making within the credit union.
  • Excellence in Cybersecurity – This award honors exceptional achievements in cybersecurity, safeguarding member data and infrastructure through cutting-edge technologies and strategies.
  • Mobile Banking – This award celebrates a credit union’s mobile banking solutions that revolutionize user experiences, security and accessibility in the digital realm.
  • Technology Project/Rollout – This award recognizes an outstanding project and seamless rollout that leverages technology to enhance operations and member experiences. This may include a core conversion, digital transformation or strategic fintech partnership. Nominated projects may include a combination of mobile banking, AI and/or cybersecurity initiatives, while our three other Innovation in Technology awards are limited to initiatives focused on the area noted in the award’s title.

This award will honor dynamic young professionals in the credit union industry who are making significant strides in their career. This accolade celebrates their exceptional achievements, leadership potential and dedication to driving innovation and positive change. The recipients demonstrate a keen understanding of emerging trends, exhibit strong work ethic and actively contribute to the growth and success of their credit union. Their passion, drive and vision inspire others and signal a promising future within the financial services sector.
There are three Rising Star nomination categories for individuals. We will be recognizing one individual in each of the following credit union asset size categories:

  • Rising Star Individual ($4 billion and higher)
  • Rising Star Individual ($1 billion to $4 billion)
  • Rising Star Individual ($1 billion and below)

Third-Party / Fintech / Trade Associations / CUSOs

The following awards will honor the leaders of third-party vendors, fintech companies, CUSOs, credit union leagues, trade groups and other credit union service providers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to supporting and enhancing the credit union industry. This award celebrates people that drive innovation, efficiency and member value. Recipients demonstrate a deep understanding of credit union needs, providing cutting-edge solutions that empower institutions to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Their partnership approach fosters trust, fosters growth and sets a benchmark for excellence in fintech integration within the credit union sector. 
There are five Executive Leadership nomination categories for individuals that work at third-party vendors, fintech companies, trade associations or CUSOs. We will be recognizing one individual in each of the following categories:

  • CUSOs – This award will recognize a Credit Union Service Organization leader who exemplifies innovation, collaboration and impact in providing valuable services and solutions to credit unions, driving industry growth and success.
  • Credit Union Leagues – This award will celebrate a leader of a credit union league who demonstrates outstanding commitment to serving and advancing the interests of member credit unions through advocacy, education and collaboration.
  • Service Provider (Non-Tech) – This award will celebrate a leader of insurance organizations, wealth management firms, executive placement agencies, marketing and PR firms, or consultants for their invaluable contributions, expertise and support in advancing credit unions' goals and success. *This award covers Insurance, wealth management, executive placement, marketing, public relations (consultant or firm).
  • Technology Vendor – This award recognizes a leader from a company that provides innovative technology products/services tailored to credit union needs.
  • Trade Association – This award will honor a leader dedicated to empowering credit unions through advocacy, education and networking, fostering growth, innovation and collaboration within the industry.

 

The following awards will recognize organizations serving credit unions that demonstrate excellence in mobile banking, core processing/conversion, AI advancements and credit/debit payment solutions. This accolade celebrates cutting-edge solutions that redefine member experiences, drive operational efficiency and push the boundaries of technological innovation within the credit union industry, setting new standards for excellence and competitive advantage.
There are four Product Innovation nomination categories. We will be recognizing one nominee in each of the following categories:

  • Advances in AI – This award acknowledges an organization that leads in delivering AI-driven solutions tailored to credit unions, revolutionizing member engagement, operational efficiency and decision-making processes.
  • Core Processing/Conversion – This award recognizes an organization that excels in providing credit unions with innovative, reliable and efficient core processing and conversion solutions, driving operational excellence and member satisfaction.
  • Credit/Debit Payments Solutions – This award honors an organization providing credit unions with innovative and secure payment solutions that enhance member convenience, drive revenue growth and ensure transactional efficiency.
  • Mobile Banking – This award honors an organization providing exceptional mobile banking solutions tailored to the unique needs of credit unions, revolutionizing member experiences and accessibility on-the-go.

This award celebrates the outstanding contributions of a young professional within third-party vendors and fintech organizations serving credit unions. This accolade recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional talent, innovation and dedication in driving technological advancements and fostering collaborative partnerships within the credit union sector. The recipient embodies the future of leadership, exhibiting a passion for innovation, a commitment to excellence, and a vision for shaping the future of financial services.
We will recognize one Rising Star individual within third-party vendors and fintech organizations serving credit unions.