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NACUSO’S Next Big Idea competition accepting entries through October 1

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (September 27, 2021) — The National Association of Credit Union Services Organizations (NACUSO), the only trade association focused on growing and protecting the CUSO movement, is accepting entries for the 2021 Next Big Idea Competition through October 1, 2021.

The Next Big Idea Competition is NACUSO’s version of the popular TV Show “Shark Tank” designed to showcase innovation, collaboration, and advancements among the credit union industry. 2021 marks the ninth year of the competition, and the second year in which CO-OP Financial Services sponsors a cash prize pool totaling $10,000. The award for first place is set at $7,500 with second place set to receive $2,500.

The competition provides a platform for visionaries to present their ideas and initiatives that will drive the movement forward; advancing the service and solutions provided by credit unions. Contestants are encouraged to submit ideas or initiatives that meet the following criteria: improve earnings, enhance member service, deliver new products and services to members, and/or improve delivery channels to members. These initiatives can be at any stage in development such as early stage and in need of investment, ready to be delivered, or already in motion currently growing and changing the industry.

A selection committee will select finalists to compete, and by October 8 all entries will be notified of their competition status. The Next Big Idea Competition will be held in-person at the NACUSO Network Conference in Las Vegas this November. On the afternoon of November 9, the selected contestants will have seven minutes to present on stage followed by eight minutes of questions from guest judges. At the end of the presentations, the audience will vote to instantly select the winners.

To submit an idea or review important information related to the 2021 Next Big Idea Competition, visit www.nacusonetwork.com/nextbigidea. The deadline for submissions is October 1st, 2021.

About NACUSO

The National Association of Credit Union Service Organizations (NACUSO) is a leading advocate for the credit union movement, dedicated to advancing innovation, collaboration, and sustainability within the industry. With a diverse membership representing a wide range of credit union service organizations, NACUSO is committed to driving positive change and empowering credit unions to thrive in a dynamic financial landscape.