Filene Research Institute

Through independent research and innovation, the Filene Research Institute explores issues vital to the future of credit unions and consumer finance.


Innovation Blog

  1. Welcome 17 + 5 New i3 Members!

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    The Filene Research Institute has selected a total of 22 exceptional credit union executives to join the Institute’s i3 (Ideas, Innovation, Implementation) program, which fosters the development of new ideas and innovations for credit unions. Each member will serve a two-year term and participate in semi-annual meetings arranged by Filene. The next meeting will be held September 29 – October 2, 2009 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

    Although the recruitment process was targeted toward adding 15 new U. S. members, 17 individuals representing 12 states were selected due to an exceptional pool of candidates. In addition, for the first time i3 will include a five-person Canadian team representing three provinces.

    “Filene is very excited to continue our strong history of ideation in the U.S. while expanding to include broader participation from Canada. We are eager to continue our collaboration with our friends to the north and explore their financial model at our fall meeting,” says Denise Gabel, Filene’s chief innovation officer.

    Currently i3 members are working on topics such as the American Dream, sustainability, and income generation. i3’s most recent blockbuster is an anonymous debt management tool for members. Credit unions can test drive Debt in Focus and tap into the service by contacting us.

    Over 60 applications from qualified credit union executives were received. The selection process evaluated innovative aptitude, experience, and other key factors including present position, leadership abilities, motivation, geography, and type of credit union. “Innovation is a people business,” says Gabel. “Having such a rich talent pool in these challenging economic times illustrates the industry’s strong commitment in building a better tomorrow.”

    Congratulations to the following new i3 members:

    categories » Innovation

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