If you’ve ever left a conference inspired but wishing the conversations had gone deeper, CU Unplugged was built for you.
CU Unplugged is an industry-first, participant-powered “unconference” created specifically for the credit union community.
No scripted keynotes. No pre-set panels.
Instead, it’s a space where credit union executives, technology leaders, and innovators come together to talk honestly about what’s working, what’s not, and what comes next. And it’s led by credit unions, for credit unions.
“At CU Unplugged, the agenda isn’t handed to the attendees; the attendees are given full rein to create it,” said Anthony Hernandez, Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) President/ CEO. “That’s what makes this event so empowering. Credit union leaders see industry challenges first-hand, and are the ones driving conversations and shaping real solutions.”
So, you’re registered, your room’s booked. What can you expect to experience?
When attendees arrive at CU Unplugged on March 30, 2026, in San Francisco, they’ll collectively build the agenda in real time. Participants will propose topics, vote on what matters most, and then break into highly interactive sessions. They’ll be free to move between rooms, join conversations that resonate, or shift gears if a new topic sparks their interest. No pressure. No preparation required.
Attendees are encouraged to show up with a challenge they want feedback on, a project they’re working through, or a question they haven’t had space to explore or discuss with other leaders. Others may simply come ready to listen, learn, and contribute when it feels right. The idea of the unconference is that it builds itself around the very people in the room.
“This idea came from listening to credit unions tell us they wanted less polish and more progress,” said John Best, CEO of Best Innovation Group. “CU Unplugged creates the conditions for candid dialogue and real-world problem solving, without hierarchy, without scripts, and without barriers.”
Every breakout session is automatically captured using AI-powered scribing, so insights aren’t lost, even from sessions you couldn’t attend. After the event, participants receive summaries of the conversations, extending the value well beyond the room.
But CU Unplugged isn’t just about sessions. It’s about connection.
Expect organic conversations, small collaborative groups, evening meetups, and plenty of chances to build partnerships with leaders and peers who are navigating the same challenges you are.
If you’ve never experienced an unconference before, you’re in for a treat.
CU Unplugged is designed to feel welcoming, flexible, and energizing.
If you’re looking for authentic collaboration, practical insight, and conversations that actually move the industry forward, CU Unplugged is exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
Join us in driving bold ideas that will shape a stronger, more successful future for the credit union industry! Secure your spot at cu-unplugged.com.
