CU Direct, a strategic partner of the New York Credit Union Association and the nation’s leading credit union lending technology provider, has partnered with Filene Research Institute to support Filene’s renowned i³ program.

Filene i³ (Ideas, Innovation, Implementation) brings together credit union professionals to brainstorm, test and create products, processes and business models to better serve member needs. These product, service and business model innovations help credit unions build operational efficiency, generate loans, mobilize savings, reach communities and strengthen membership.

“We are excited for the collaboration and development of future credit union leaders through CU Direct’s support of the i³program.” said Filene President/CEO Mark Meyer. “With more than 200 innovative concepts and solutions from 260 program participants under its belt, Filene i3 has already helped save consumers millions of dollars, brought new efficiencies to credit unions and even changed a few laws.”

Filene is opening a talent outpost within CU Direct’s Irvine Campus, adjacent to their Innovation Lab. This physical link will keep Filene connected to CU Direct’s innovation work and enable Filene to be closer to member credit unions on the west coast.

“CU Direct is on the leading edge of innovative technology for credit unions, and we know this work is a collaborative sport, so it makes sense for us to partner with Filene to strengthen the opportunities available to growing, innovation-minded credit unions,” said Tony Boutelle, CU Direct president/CEO.

Filene’s i³ program will begin recruiting participants for the 2019 class in June.

To learn more about the i³ program, visit Filene’s website. Interested applicants can visit the interest form to be notified first when applications open.