Firefighters First Credit Union and IgniteFI Spark Leadership Engagement and Innovation Through Firecracker Focus Workshop

Interactive innovation experience brings credit union leaders together to explore fintech solutions, collaborate on strategic priorities, and turn ideas into action.

MADISON, WI — October 26, 2026 — Firefighters First Credit Union partnered with IgniteFI to host a customized Firecracker Focus innovation workshop, bringing together approximately 70 credit union leaders for an interactive experience focused on fintech innovation, strategic collaboration, and organizational growth.

The workshop provided an opportunity for Firefighters First Credit Union leaders to actively participate in evaluating emerging financial technology solutions, exploring opportunities for improvement, and identifying actionable next steps aligned with the credit union's strategic priorities.

Unlike traditional fintech showcases, Firecracker Focus combines curated fintech presentations with facilitated, cross-functional workshops designed to move beyond awareness and toward execution.

IgniteFI worked with Firefighters First Credit Union to identify strategic priorities and pre-screen fintech companies whose solutions aligned with the credit union's objectives. Four selected fintechs were invited to deliver tailored presentations, providing leadership with insight into innovative solutions and potential business applications.

Following the presentations, credit union participants engaged in facilitated breakout sessions to assess current-state challenges, envision future-state opportunities, evaluate organizational impact, and identify potential next steps.

Leadership Engagement Takes Center Stage

A defining feature of the workshop was the enthusiastic participation of Firefighters First Credit Union leaders. Through interactive, cross-functional breakout sessions, participants shared perspectives, explored practical applications of emerging technologies, and contributed ideas for addressing organizational challenges. The collaborative format gave leaders an active voice in the innovation process while strengthening connections across departments.

"What stood out most was how engaged our team was throughout the entire experience," said Dixie Abramian, President/CEO, Firefighters First Credit Union. "Our leaders really enjoyed being part of the process rather than simply listening to presentations. The

opportunity to share ideas, collaborate with colleagues, and help shape potential solutions made the workshop both energizing and valuable."

Connecting Innovation to Strategic Action

Beyond exploring fintech capabilities, Firecracker Focus encouraged participants to consider how emerging solutions could support broader organizational objectives.

Through facilitated strategic exercises, participants examined opportunities across departments, discussed potential operational and member experience improvements, and explored practical steps for moving promising ideas forward.

"Firecracker Focus is designed to help credit unions move beyond simply discovering new technology and start connecting innovation to meaningful business outcomes," said Julie J. Esser, Founder and CEO of IgniteFI. "What makes the experience especially powerful is the opportunity for credit union leadership to contribute their perspectives and collaborate across the organization. When people are engaged in the process, innovation becomes something they help shape rather than something that simply happens around them."

"Firecracker Focus gave our team an opportunity to think differently about innovation and how it connects to our strategic priorities," said Jeffrey Staw, Chief Information & Innovation Officer, Firefighters First Credit Union. "The enthusiasm and participation from our leadership team reinforced the importance of involving people across the organization in these conversations. It created a sense of ownership and excitement around the opportunities ahead."

The workshop reinforced the value of bringing leadership together to explore new possibilities, strengthen cross-functional collaboration, and build organizational alignment around innovation initiatives.

Firecracker Focus is available as a one-time workshop or ongoing quarterly engagement, allowing credit unions to address specific challenges, evaluate relevant fintech solutions, and maintain momentum across strategic initiatives. For more information about Firecracker Focus, visit www.ignitefi.com/firecracker-focus/.

About Firefighters First Credit Union

Since 1935, firefighters and their families have counted on Firefighters First Credit Union to support their financial well-being. The Credit Union is committed to delivering legendary service and premier products that advance its mission of improving the financial lives of the Fire Family nationwide. Visit www.firefightersfirstcu.org.

About IgniteFI

IgniteFI is a fintech advisory and growth services firm focused on connecting financial technology innovation with the credit union industry. Through strategic advisory, business development, marketing, and curated innovation programs, IgniteFI helps fintech companies and credit unions build meaningful partnerships and turn opportunities into action. Visit www.ignitefi.com