ABCUL Technology & Change Special Interest Group to Explore AI in Credit Unions

Friday 30 May 2025

ABCUL has announced the next session of its Technology & Change Special Interest Group (SIG), taking place on Wednesday 18 June 2025, from 12:00 to 13:30. This member-exclusive webinar will focus on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in credit unions and the opportunities and challenges it presents.

The Technology & Change SIG was launched by ABCUL to provide a dedicated space for credit union professionals to connect, collaborate, and navigate the evolving digital landscape together. Created in response to sector demand, the SIG supports credit unions in adapting to innovation and managing change effectively, sharing real-world insights and strategies in a peer-led environment.

“Our Technology & Change Special Interest Group is about creating space for meaningful collaboration and action,” said Debbie Smith Hands, ABCUL’s Head of Member Engagement. “As the landscape evolves rapidly, ABCUL is pushing forward with a clear agenda for innovation and digital advancement. This group enables our members to share what works, learn from one another, and approach emerging technologies like AI with both ambition and purpose.”

The June session will examine how credit unions can responsibly and effectively implement AI to improve operational efficiency, enhance member services, and support strategic decision-making.

Featured speaker Matt Howarth, Co-founder of Reason Digital, returns following his highly rated session at the 2025 ABCUL Annual Conference. He will provide practical insights on:

• The Do’s and Don’ts of AI – Best practices for ethical adoption;
• Tools & Technologies – Practical examples already making a difference;
• Strategy in Practice – Case studies of AI in action within credit unions.

The second half of the session will include a live case study from Mike Barry of First Rate Credit Union, who will share how his team is already leveraging AI tools to improve service delivery and efficiency. Members will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences and learn from peers across the sector.

This session is open to all ABCUL member credit unions, whether involved in digital strategy, operations, or innovation projects.