What This Initiative Is
The Small-Asset Strategic Success Playbook initiative is a new MCUL effort designed specifically for Michigan credit unions with assets under $400 million. Its purpose is to provide a clear, practical framework for running a strong, sustainable, independent credit union in today’s environment.
Rather than positioning merger as the default path, this project focuses on strengthening your business model and expanding the options available to your credit union and your members.
SAS Playbook Kickoff Session | Feb. 2026
Engage With the Initiative
Select the date that best fits your schedule (attendance at one session only is needed).
TBD
SAS Playbook Development Review | Aug. 24
We are hosting one final listening session to review a new draft section of the playbook and gather feedback on its structure, flow, practicality and value for credit unions under $400MM. Your input will help us confirm that the playbook serves as an effective business planning resource for executive teams before we move into full production.
During the session, we will evaluate whether the section provides the right mix of strategic direction, practical guidance, examples, priorities, projects, KPIs and 90-day execution planning.
Who It’s For
This work is tailored to:
- CEOs of Michigan credit unions under $400M
- Senior leadership teams
- Boards of Directors of those credit unions
If you’re leading a smaller or mid‑sized credit union and navigating growth, efficiency, regulation, technology, or succession, this initiative is built for you.
How the Playbook Will Be Built
The playbook is being developed in three phases:
-
Discovery & Insight (Q1–Q2 2026)
CEO survey and virtual CEO listening sessions to understand the most pressing challenges and opportunities for sub‑$400M credit unions. -
Playbook Development (Q2–Q4 2026)
Translating insights into a structured, practical playbook that covers strategy, financial sustainability, member relevance, operations, technology, governance, talent, and risk. -
Review & Delivery (Q4 2026)
Leadership review, targeted CEO feedback, and delivery of an MCUL‑branded digital playbook you can easily share and use.
Your participation during the discovery phase is essential. The stronger the input, the stronger and more relevant the final resource will be.
What Credit Unions Will Gain
The Strategic Success Playbook is being designed to:
- Help you clarify your strategy and long‑term direction
- Support sustainable financial performance and growth
- Provide practical tools for board and leadership discussions
- Highlight right‑sized technology and vendor approaches
- Offer options for staying strong and independent—even in a consolidating market
Ultimately, this initiative reinforces MCUL’s role as your strategic partner: listening first, then responding with tools that reflect your reality.
Use this page as your hub for:
- Project background and updates
- Upcoming surveys, listening sessions, and other engagement opportunities
- Progress toward the final playbook and key milestones

