New Connections. New Solutions. NEW IDEAS.

New Ideas delivered fresh perspectives, meaningful connections, and practical strategies, inspiring professionals across the Dakotas to lead, innovate, and make an even greater impact.

The 2026 New Ideas Conference once again proved why it remains a must-attend event for credit union professionals across the Dakotas. Bringing together a dynamic mix of returning attendees and first-time participants, this year's conference was filled with energy, engagement, innovative thinking, and practical strategies that attendees could immediately take back to their credit unions.

From the moment the conference began, there was a sense of excitement and enthusiasm throughout the room. Professionals from North and South Dakota came together to learn from one another, challenge conventional thinking, and explore new approaches to the opportunities and challenges facing today's credit union movement.
A key highlight of this year's event was an outstanding lineup of speakers who delivered timely, relevant, and thought-provoking presentations. Sessions covered a broad range of topics, from communications and marketing strategies to data-driven decision-making and emerging industry trends. The variety of content ensured there was something valuable for every attendee, regardless of role or experience level.,
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Just as important as the topics themselves was the level of engagement from attendees. Throughout the conference, participants asked thoughtful questions, shared experiences, and actively contributed to discussions. In fact, one speaker specifically commented on how engaged and invested the audience was, a reflection of the dedication and professionalism that credit union leaders across the Dakotas consistently demonstrate.

Attendees didn't leave with just ideas. They left with practical, actionable takeaways. Whether it was a new communication strategy, an operational improvement, a member engagement initiative, or a fresh perspective on industry challenges, participants gained tools and insights they can begin implementing immediately within their organizations.

The conference also featured valuable conversations with industry partners. A special thank you goes to Bank of North Dakota for sharing insights on stablecoins and to our partner Rippleshot for leading discussions surrounding fraud prevention. Their expertise helped attendees better understand emerging issues and opportunities that continue to shape the financial services landscape.

Beyond the educational sessions, New Ideas provided countless opportunities for networking and relationship-building. The event welcomed a great mix of familiar faces and new attendees, creating an environment where fresh perspectives met experienced leadership. These connections are one of the hallmarks of the conference and a major reason participants continue to return year after year.

Of course, learning wasn't the only thing on the agenda. A little friendly competition emerged around the cornhole boards as attendees stayed after sessions to relax, connect, and enjoy time together. These informal moments often spark some of the most meaningful conversations and help strengthen the relationships that make the credit union community so unique.

Early feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive and reinforces the value of the conference experience:
"It was a great event with plenty of information to take back home to our credit union."

"I have always enjoyed the New Ideas Conference, but this year was exceptionally great! I got so much out of the event and look forward to implementing many of the ideas. GREAT speakers!"
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"It was my first time attending. I had a great time and learned a lot."

Comments like these capture what makes New Ideas such a special event. It is more than a conference. It is a place where professionals come together to learn, share ideas, challenge their thinking, and return to their credit unions inspired and equipped to make an even greater impact.

Thank you to our attendees, speakers, sponsors, and partners for helping make New Ideas 2026 such a success. Your participation, enthusiasm, and willingness to share ideas created an experience that will continue to benefit credit unions long after the conference concluded.

If you attended New Ideas and have not yet completed the post-event survey, please check your email and share your feedback. Survey responses help us continue improving the conference experience, and everyone who completes the survey will be entered for a chance to win a $50 gift card.
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As we reflect on another outstanding year, we're already looking ahead to the future. If the energy, engagement, and innovation on display this year were any indication, New Ideas will continue to be a source of inspiration for credit union professionals throughout the Dakotas for years to come.