WASHINGTON—The Defense Credit Union Council, in partnership with Best Innovation Group, on Monday announced the launch of CU Unplugged, a new industry event aimed at rethinking how credit union leaders collaborate, share ideas, and develop solutions to emerging challenges.
The inaugural CU Unplugged conference is scheduled for March 30 through April 2, 2026, and will be hosted by signature sponsor Visa at its Market Support Center at Mission Rock in San Francisco. DCUC said the event will feature a new format designed to move beyond traditional conference structures and foster deeper engagement among participants.
DCUC emphasized the event is “not a conference, not a workshop.”
“It is an unconference, built entirely by and for the people in the room,” DCUC explained.
DCUC said CU Unplugged brings together a curated group of credit union leaders, technologists, and innovators who share one goal: to accelerate the future of financial services.
“In a dramatic break from traditional conferences, CU Unplugged offers no pre-set agenda, no keynote speakers, and no passive sessions. Instead, attendees will drive the conversations in real time, choosing the topics, shaping the discussions, and setting the direction of the event,” the trade group said.
“CU Unplugged is about elevating the voices of the people doing the work every day,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president/CEO. “Our industry faces complex challenges, and we need a space where leaders can step away from the scripted format and have real, hard-hitting conversations. This event gives credit union professionals the freedom to collaborate, innovate, and design solutions together. It’s truly unlike anything else out there.”
DCUC said the agenda is expected to cover a broad range of topics, including AI governance, cybersecurity, payments and digital member experience, as well as emerging threats, operational pressures, and the challenges currently facing credit union leaders.
“Innovation happens in conversations between people who are passionate, curious, and unafraid to rethink what’s possible,” said John Best, CEO of Best Innovation Group. “CU Unplugged gives the industry a new kind of forum, where ideas can collide, evolve, and turn into real-world action. We’re excited to help create an environment where the future of credit unions can be openly built.”
Learn more and register to secure a limited spot by visiting www.cu-unplugged.com.