New Ideas Conference to Deliver Fresh Strategies

Don't miss New Ideas Conference September 23-24! ​Learn from industry experts on AI, marketing, member engagement, fintech, communication, and leadership. Register by August 21 to save $50.

Your Dakota Credit Union Association's New Ideas Conference returns September 23-24 in Mandan, N.D., bringing together credit union professionals for two days of innovative strategies, practical solutions, and meaningful networking designed specifically for Dakota credit unions!

This year's conference features an outstanding lineup of industry experts covering today's most relevant topics, from member communication and marketing to artificial intelligence, fintech, leadership, and member engagement. Whether you're looking to strengthen your marketing efforts, improve member experiences, embrace emerging technology, or develop stronger communication skills, New Ideas offers actionable insights you can take back to your credit union.

Speak Your Members' Language
The conference opens with Samantha Cherney of Mission Brands, whose session, "They Want a Car, Not a Lender," challenges credit unions to rethink how they communicate with members. Cherney explores the disconnect between industry terminology and the language consumers actually use, offering practical ways to create messaging that is more relatable, engaging, and effective.

Smarter Marketing for Stronger Growth
Then, Matt Oakley will share "Market Growth: Insights for Credit Union Marketing," examining how today's most successful marketing strategies combine trusted branding with consumer intelligence, digital targeting, and coordinated campaigns. Attendees will learn how to better identify prospective members, improve campaign performance, and drive measurable growth through data-informed marketing.

Turning AI and Analytics into Business Results
Artificial intelligence continues to dominate industry conversations—but how can credit unions move beyond the hype? Melissa Pomeroy's session, "The Data Strategy Loop: Aligning AI and Analytics to Business Outcomes," provides a practical framework for connecting strategic goals with data, analytics, automation, and AI. Using real-world credit union examples, attendees will learn how to identify meaningful AI opportunities that improve efficiency, growth, risk management, and member impact.

Winning with the Human Edge
Digital competitors continue to reshape financial services, but Chris Lorence believes credit unions possess something technology can't replace. In "The Human Edge: Winning Brand Awareness Against Robinhood, SoFi & Digital-Only Disruptors," Lorence explores why authentic relationships, trust, and community remain credit unions' greatest competitive advantage and how organizations can leverage those strengths to remain top-of-mind when consumers make financial decisions.

Innovation in Action
The afternoon FinTech Showcase Panel will highlight emerging technology partners and innovative solutions that are helping credit unions improve operations, enhance member experiences, and solve everyday business challenges.

Attendees will also have opportunities to exchange ideas with peers during the interactive Idea Marketplace, followed by a networking social to continue conversations and build valuable industry connections.

Building the Next Generation of Members
Day two will begin with Harrison Hochman, who will explore strategies for creating lasting relationships with younger generations in "From Transactions to Relationships: Building Lifelong Member Loyalty with Gen Z & Millennials." His session will focus on understanding evolving member expectations and building engagement that extends well beyond individual transactions.

Communication That Creates Connection
Before the 1.5 day conference concludes with new "Solutions Sessions," Deb Schuelke's will first join us for her interactive presentation, "Communication That Works: The Human Edge in Every Conversation." Through practical exercises and real-world credit union scenarios, attendees will learn techniques for communicating with greater clarity, empathy, and confidence while strengthening relationships with members, coworkers, and teams.

Attendees can also take advantage of two complimentary pre-conference opportunities on September 22. Participate in DakCU's Leadership Exchange featuring America's Credit Unions President & CEO Scott Simpson, followed by an afternoon advocacy workshop designed to strengthen your advocacy knowledge, connect with industry leaders, and engage with peers before the conference officially begins!

DakCU Summit Crashers from the past three years can continue their leadership journey with an exclusive 50% discount on New Ideas Conference registration. Simply use promo code Crasher Special when registering, or if you select Bill Me Later, DakCU will automatically adjust your invoice to reflect the discounted registration rate.*

Register Today

Early bird registration ends soon on August 21, giving attendees the opportunity to save $50 before regular pricing begins. We look forward to seeing you in Mandan this September!

*This exclusive offer is available only to Summit Crashers from the past three years. Registrations using the code that do not meet eligibility requirements will be adjusted to the full registration rate.*