New Ideas Registration Now Open

New Ideas Conference returns September 23–24 with industry experts sharing strategies on growth, data, leadership, member relationships and innovation. Plus, join Scott Simpson’s Leadership Exchange on the 22!

​The New Ideas Conference is back this fall with a lineup designed to challenge conventional thinking, spark conversations and provide credit unions with practical ideas they can bring back to their teams.

Taking place September 23-24, 2026, in Mandan, North Dakota, this year’s conference will bring together industry leaders, innovators and thought partners to explore the strategies shaping the future of credit unions, from data and artificial intelligence to member growth, communication, leadership and innovation.

With six speakers confirmed and additional details being finalized, attendees can expect a powerful mix of strategic insight and actionable takeaways. This year’s sessions will focus on helping credit unions better understand their members, strengthen relationships and identify opportunities for growth.

Speakers include:
Christopher Lorence, Consultant and CMO • Fractional Edge Marketing
A nationally recognized financial services leader, Christopher brings more than 20 years of executive experience in marketing, strategic communications, brand development and market growth. Christopher will be returning for his fourth New Ideas Conference after becoming a favorite among attendees for his engaging style and thought-provoking discussions!

Melissa Pomeroy, EVP and Chief Operating Officer • Cooperative Credit Union Association
Melissa will challenge credit unions to look beyond the hype surrounding artificial intelligence and focus on the foundation that makes innovation successful: quality data. Her session will provide practical guidance for moving from buzzwords to meaningful results.

Matt Oakley, Chief Operating Officer • Iowa Credit Union League
Matt will dive into growth strategies and how credit unions can use data and insights to attract new members, deepen relationships and create sustainable growth. His session about market growth will explore how the right information can lead to better decisions and stronger member engagement.

Samantha Cherney, Senior Director, Brand & Marketing • Mission Brands Consulting
Samantha will challenge credit unions to rethink what it means to truly know their members. Her session, They Want a Car Not a Lender, will explore how understanding member needs, behaviors and experiences can create stronger relationships and better financial outcomes.

Deb Schuelke, Senior Consultant • Rose Group International
An expert in leadership communication, Deb will focus on the connection between effective communication and organizational success. Her session will help leaders strengthen communication, alignment and culture within their organizations.

Harrison Hochman, Co-Founder and CEO • Sparrow
Harrison will explore how credit unions can move beyond transactions and build lasting member loyalty. His session will provide a roadmap for creating deeper engagement and transforming members into advocates.

In addition to these sessions, attendees will hear from a fintech panel featuring innovative companies focused on helping credit unions improve member experiences, solve challenges and prepare for what’s next. Attendees will also have opportunities to network, exchange ideas and continue conversations during the evening social following the first day of sessions.

Extend Your New Ideas Experience with the Scott Simpson Leadership Exchange
New Ideas attendees will also have the opportunity to attend the afternoon and evening events on September 22 in Bismarck featuring Scott Simpson, president and CEO of America’s Credit Unions, at no additional cost.

1. Advocacy Training Session
   1. This highly requested training opportunity was developed in response to feedback from credit unions and CEOs looking for additional advocacy education and engagement opportunities.
2. Leadership Exchange Social & Fireside Chat
   1. Attendees can also join an evening social and fireside chat with Scott Simpson and DakCU President & CEO Joe Keller for an informal conversation focused on leadership, the future of credit unions and industry priorities.

These September 22 pre-conference add-on opportunities provide an additional way for New Ideas attendees to connect, learn and engage before the conference officially begins. They are both options included within New Ideas attendee registration.

Learn more and Register Now.

Special Opportunity for Summit Crashers
For the second year, Summit Crashers will receive 50% off New Ideas Conference registration. After the success of the inaugural Crasher opportunity, DakCU is excited to continue encouraging emerging leaders to participate in professional development opportunities and connect with credit union peers from across the Dakotas.

New Ideas is built around one simple goal: bringing people together to discover ideas that inspire action. We hope you’ll join us this fall and leave with strategies, connections and inspiration to help your credit union continue moving forward.

Previous crashers can claim their discount by entering the promo code: Crasher Special during registration, or by selecting “Bill Me Later” at checkout. We’ll adjust your invoice to reflect the half-off Crasher rate.

*This promotion is available exclusively to Summit Crashers from the past three years. If a non-Crasher registers using the coupon code, the invoice will be adjusted to reflect the full registration value.*