Katie BaileyGiving Tuesday is a reminder of how generosity can strengthen communities, and the Credit Union Impact Foundation brings that spirit to life every day through programs that support credit union employees, volunteers, and emerging leaders across our region.
Professional Development Grants
Professional Development Grants help credit union CEOs, staff, board members, and supervisory committee members access education that strengthens their skills and enhances member service. These grants are especially valuable for smaller credit unions or those with financial challenges, often covering tuition and travel for key learning opportunities. By removing cost barriers, the Foundation helps ensure credit unions can continue growing, innovating, and serving their communities. Requests must be submitted at least 30 days before the event.
When disasters strike, the Foundation activates Disaster Relief Grants to support credit union employees and volunteers facing urgent hardship. These grants provide fast, direct assistance so individuals can meet immediate needs during difficult times. Applications open only after the Foundation announces that requests are being accepted for a specific disaster.
Community Impact Grants powered by Vizo Financial
The Community Impact Grant Program, powered by Vizo Financial, supports projects that strengthen the financial health and stability of credit union members and their communities. This program highlights financial literacy as an essential part of member wellness and helps credit unions deliver practical, measurable results. Community Impact Grants also provide support for credit unions pursuing Community Development Financial Institution certification or applying for CDFI Fund grants. Grant awards can be up to $5,000 for credit unions and up to $1,500 for Chapters.
Credit Union Development Grants
Credit Union Development Grants help credit unions enhance operations by supporting staff and volunteer development, technology adoption, operational improvements, and innovative projects. These grants provide up to $2,500 in funding to help credit unions strengthen internal capabilities and continue serving members with excellence.
Kelsie Davis Memorial Leadership Journey Scholarship
In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, we also honor the generosity and legacy of Kelsie Davis. The Kelsie Davis Memorial Leadership Journey Scholarship supports emerging leaders with a two-year professional development pathway that includes EMERGE, Leadership College, and the Executive Institute. Five scholarships will be awarded each year to candidates with at least three years of credit union experience who are nominated by their CEO or senior leader. Applications are open from November 1 through December 15, with awardees announced by December 31.
On Giving Tuesday, these programs reflect what our movement represents. They invest in people, strengthen the credit union workforce, and help communities recover and rebuild.
Credit unions can learn more or apply by visiting the Credit Union Impact Foundation’s Grants page.
