Networking at the CU Growth & Innovation Summit isn’t an afterthought—it’s a strategic part of the experience. From curated conversations to casual connections, every moment is intentionally designed to spark real value for credit union leaders.
Expand your professional network through exclusive, executive-level events crafted to create authentic engagement, collaboration, and long-term partnerships.
Whether you’re a credit union executive, a tech strategist, or an innovation leader, CUGI brings together the right people around the right conversations in the right environment.
We’ve thoughtfully designed a variety of high-impact ways to connect—before, during, and after the summit. These touchpoints are tailored for professionals leading transformation across technology, operations, lending, member experience, and strategic growth.
This isn’t just networking. It’s relationship-building with purpose.
Engage in real conversations—not lectures.
These small, moderated groups bring together professionals facing shared challenges—from digital transformation to operational efficiency, member engagement, AI adoption, and risk management.
Every session is carefully curated by topic and attendee role, ensuring that you’re seated with peers who speak your language. Walk away with practical ideas, real-world solutions, and new contacts to call after the summit.
This is where some of the most meaningful, problem-solving conversations happen—executive to executive.
Monday, February 9, 2026 | Opening Night
Our evening reception sets the tone for the summit—warm, energetic, and intentionally designed to connect leaders before the sessions begin.
Held in an inviting space steps from the main conference floor, this reception includes hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and curated conversation starters to make introductions easy and impactful. It’s the perfect setting to meet speakers, connect with sponsors, and reintroduce yourself to peers you’ve seen across the industry.
Expect more than a cocktail in hand—expect new ideas, strategic introductions, and memorable conversations.
Unstructured moments with surprising impact.
Between sessions, our mid-day networking breaks—held in the exhibit hall—are stocked with premium snacks, espresso stations, and comfortable seating areas where you can decompress or reconnect.
Designed for senior attendees, these breaks allow time for serendipitous introductions, deeper follow-ups, or casual conversations that often lead to long-term professional relationships.
Sometimes the best ideas happen between the sessions.
For deeper engagement and exclusive access, our VIP experience offers premium networking moments not available to general attendees.
This is ideal for leaders looking to build high-value relationships in a private, executive-level setting.
Upgrade to VIP for maximum connection, comfort, and credibility.
Our official summit app keeps your networking organized and efficient.
This is ideal for leaders who want to maximize efficiency, stay organized, and build intentional connections throughout the event.
Use the app to streamline your experience and strengthen your network—without missing a moment.
CUGI is more than a conference—it’s a network. Every element of the summit is crafted to connect you with strategic partners, forward-thinking peers, and industry experts who can help you accelerate growth and innovation at your credit union.
You won’t just attend.
You’ll connect.
You’ll collaborate.
You’ll lead the conversations that move the industry forward.
Ready to grow your network? Join us at CUGI 2026.
