Next Big Idea Competition

Big ideas don’t change the industry on their own—execution does. 

NACUSO’s Next Big Idea Competition is designed to do more than surface exciting concepts. It exists to identify, support, and accelerate ideas that create real, measurable impact for credit unions, their members, and the communities they serve. 

Hosted during 2026 Reimagine, this competition is our take on Shark Tank—but with a credit union twist. It’s collaborative, mission-driven, and focused on turning innovation into action as we Build Tomorrow – Today.

More Than a Pitch. Support That Lasts. 

Winning isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting point. Top ideas receive ongoing support, industry exposure, and up to $10,000 in prizes to help move from concept to reality. 

APPLY NOW

How It Works 

  1. Apply by January 30, 11:59 PM CST 
  2. A NACUSO selection committee reviews applications and selects a group of finalists
  3. Finalists are notified by February 28 and paired with NACUSO staff and/or board member coaches to prepare
  4. Finalists pitches happen live at Reimagine 2026 
  5. Conference attendees help select the winners 

Even if your idea isn’t selected as a finalist, applying opens the door to future partnership and visibility opportunities with NACUSO. We encourage all applicants to attend Reimagine and experience firsthand how NACUSO helps ideas grow. 

You Should Apply If Your Idea… 

  • Delivers a “wow” factor while solving real credit union challenges 
  • Is accessible and scalable across institutions of different sizes
  • Demonstrates innovation, collaboration, and sustainability
  • Reflects the credit union philosophy of people helping people
  • Improves financial well-being for individuals and communities 

Not sure you’re a fit? Apply anyway. 

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Rules & Eligibility 

Ideas must: 

  • Be applicable within the credit union system (not limited to financial products) 
  • Deliver industry-level impact (consumer-facing or operational) 
  • Be technologically feasible and compliant with current regulations 
  • Clearly differentiate from existing market solutions 
  • Not have participated in or won another credit union industry competition in the past calendar year 

Prizes & Ongoing Support 

All winners receive continued guidance and promotion—because winning is just the beginning. 

1st Place 

  • $10,000 cash prize 
  • 1-year NACUSO membership 
  • Feature in a NACUSO podcast or workshop 
  • Active promotion across NACUSO channels 

2nd Place 

  • 1-year NACUSO membership
  • Active promotion across NACUSO channels 

3rd Place 

  • 1-year NACUSO membership 
  • Active promotion across NACUSO channels 
APPLY NOW