Corporate Central Expands Support for Emerging Credit Unions, Welcomes Two De Novo Members

MILWAUKEE, WI – April 29, 2026 – Corporate Central continues to invest in the future of the credit union movement, proudly welcoming two de novo credit union members while expanding support for initiatives working toward becoming fully chartered institutions.

As communities across the country work to establish new credit unions, these forming entities face complex regulatory, operational, and capital requirements before receiving an official charter. Corporate Central recognized an opportunity to align its vision and mission with the future of the movement by ensuring these emerging organizations have a strong cooperative partner from the start.

“Our commitment is to the long-term strength of the credit union movement,” said Jesse Kohl, Senior Vice President Corporate Development. “Supporting entities that are actively seeking to become credit unions is fully aligned with who we are and what we stand for. We believe that when new credit unions succeed, the entire movement benefits.”

Supporting the Path to Charter

Forming a new credit union requires significant planning, capital, and regulatory approval. Recognizing these challenges, Corporate Central took a proactive step by amending its membership bylaws to support organizations earlier in their journey.

Following board approval and authorization from the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Corporate Central introduced an associate membership designed specifically for credit union initiatives.

The Seattle University Credit Union Initiative joined as an Associate Member in November 2025, marking the beginning of this expanded approach. Then, in February 2026, George Washington University Credit Union Initiative joined as an Associate Member.

“This was a thoughtful and strategic decision,” said Pete Paulson, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “If we want to see more credit unions serving communities, we must be willing to support them before they officially open their doors.”

Building a Strong Foundation

Through associate membership, credit union initiatives gain access to key financial tools and collaborative support as they prepare for charter approval. Corporate Central provides deposit and investment solutions to help these organizations build the capital required to launch successfully.

In addition to balance sheet support, Corporate Central collaborates with these initiatives to explore long term strategies, including student lending programs, helping position them for meaningful and sustainable impact once operational.

“Corporate Central has been an incredible partner throughout our journey,” said Cisco Malpartida Smith, Chair of the Board for both the Seattle University Credit Union Initiative and the George Washington University Credit Union Initiative. “When we began this work, we reached out to nearly every corporate in the country, and most told us they could only serve a fully chartered credit union or CUSO—being a credit union in formation wasn’t enough. Corporate Central was different: they acknowledged they faced the same limitation, then proactively moved to amend their bylaws, update their policies and forms, secure regulatory approval, and obtain board approval so they could support us as de novo initiatives. That level of commitment is remarkable and has truly earned our appreciation and loyalty—they really do walk the talk.”

A Commitment to the Future of the Movement

With two de novo credit unions now part of its membership, Corporate Central continues to demonstrate leadership in fostering the next generation of credit unions.

“We are proud to support these organizations at such a critical stage,” added Kohl. “Helping them build capital, establish infrastructure, and prepare for launch is an investment in the future of cooperative finance.”

Corporate Central remains dedicated to empowering credit unions at every stage of their lifecycle and to strengthening communities nationwide.

For more information about Corporate Central and its services for emerging and newly chartered credit unions, visit corpcu.com.

Helping Members to be Wildly Successful

About Corporate Central Credit Union

Corporate Central Credit Union is a federally insured financial cooperative built on the values of commitment to service, fiscal responsibility, and respect for the individual. We cultivate a culture of respect, ethics, teamwork, and innovation. We are "Helping Members to be Wildly Successful" by delivering industry knowledge and expertise to help credit unions achieve their strategic objectives and compete in today’s evolving financial services industry. We are motivated to passionately serve our members and strive to learn, create, and innovate daily. Please visit corpcu.com to learn more, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.