Record-breaking exhibit hall and dynamic programming highlight this year's convention; APEX 2027 registration now open at 2026 rates
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
UNCASVILLE, CT — APEX 2026 brought together 1,000 credit union leaders, industry partners, sponsors, exhibitors, and speakers at Mohegan Sun, marking another milestone for the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) and Connecticut’s Credit Unions (CTCU). Held October 13–16, the annual convention united representatives from Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island for an engaging program focused on advancing the credit union movement through education, innovation, and meaningful connections.
Under the theme Peak of Possibility, APEX 2026 challenged attendees to think beyond today's opportunities and explore new approaches to leadership, technology, and member engagement. From thought-provoking keynote presentations to hands-on learning experiences and a record-breaking exhibit hall, the convention provided opportunities for attendees to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and discover solutions to support their organizations and the communities they serve.
TruStage, the title sponsor of APEX 2026, played an important role in supporting the convention and its mission to bring the credit union community together. Joining TruStage were convention sponsors cuVoyant, MemberClose, and SRM, whose contributions helped make possible a dynamic program of education, networking, and industry engagement. Together, these partnerships reinforced the shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and the continued success of the credit union movement.
The convention featured a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers who addressed some of the most important opportunities and challenges facing today's leaders. Phil Gwoke, generational expert and CEO of BridgeWorks, opened the program with insights into connecting across generations and engaging the next generation of credit union members and talent. Cybersecurity expert and ethical hacker Bryan Seely examined emerging fraud tactics and the evolving threat landscape, while Boston Celtics legend and Basketball Hall of Famer Kevin McHale shared lessons in leadership, teamwork, and perseverance from his storied career. Scott Simpson, President and CEO of America's Credit Unions, delivered the closing keynote, offering a national perspective on the priorities and future of the credit union movement.
A major highlight of APEX 2026 was its largest exhibit hall to date, featuring 130 exhibitors representing a broad range of business partners, service providers, and emerging fintech companies. The expanded marketplace created opportunities for credit union decision-makers to connect directly with solution providers, explore emerging technologies, and identify new ways to strengthen operations and enhance the member experience.
The exhibit hall also served as a hub for education and innovation through the return of the Solutions Stage, facilitated by Mark Sievewright, Founder of CU Leadership. The stage featured live technology demonstrations, interactive Learning Labs, fintech presentations, and practical case studies addressing topics such as artificial intelligence, fraud prevention, compliance, and digital transformation. The Fintech Foothills and Solutions Summit further expanded opportunities for attendees to engage with emerging innovators and established industry partners.
"APEX 2026 demonstrated what is possible when we bring together the knowledge, experience, and collective strength of our credit union community," said Ron McLean, President and CEO of CCUA. "With 1,000 participants, our largest exhibit hall to date, and outstanding engagement throughout the convention, we continue to build an experience that delivers meaningful value to our members and partners. The connections made, ideas exchanged, and opportunities explored at APEX reinforce the importance of working together to advance the credit union movement."
“APEX 2026 was a tremendous celebration of the credit union movement. From recognizing the incredible work of our credit unions and the impact they make for their members, to learning and connecting alongside peers from across the region, the energy throughout the convention was remarkable,” said Christopher Whalen, Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Solutions for Connecticut’s Credit Unions. “Together, CCUA and CTCU are demonstrating cooperative collaboration in action and delivering greater value to our members.”
The continued success and growth of APEX reflect the strong partnership between CCUA and CTCU, whose shared commitment to serving credit unions across the five-state region has helped establish the convention as a leading industry gathering in the Northeast.
Looking Ahead to APEX 2027
Building on this year's momentum, registration for APEX 2027 is now open, with attendees able to secure their place at 2026 rates for a limited time. The convention will return to Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, October 12–15, 2027, continuing to bring together credit union leaders, innovators, and partners from across the Northeast.
For additional information and to take advantage of current registration rates, visit www.ccua.org/apex27.
The Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) is the leading regional trade organization, acting as the advocate for nearly 200 credit unions spanning Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. These member credit unions collectively manage assets exceeding $75 billion, serving a combined membership of over 5 million consumers. Visit www.ccua.org for more information.
Connecticut’s Credit Unions is the united voice and resource hub for credit unions across the state. Since 1935, the association has worked alongside its members to strengthen their ability to serve people, businesses, and communities with integrity, innovation, and care. Learn more at www.ctcreditunions.org.
Janelle Mullen
Vice President of Member Engagement
Email: jmullen@ccua.org