Five fintech startups selected for Curql’s second accelerator cohort
These next-gen solutions poised to drive competitiveness and relevancy for credit unions
DES MOINES, IA (October 1, 2024) — Curql, a collective of credit unions jointly investing in fintech, is once again making strides to bring forward-thinking fintech solutions to the industry. Earlier this year, Curql kicked off its first fintech accelerator cohort, designed to help credit unions explore emerging financial technology while helping entrepreneurs advance their go-to-market strategy for credit unions. Now, Curql has unveiled the next chapter: a new cohort of fintech startups, along with a series of on-site cohort events where credit unions and fintech will collaborate closely to develop solutions that drive the credit union mission forward.
Partnering with Credit Unions to Drive Progress
The new Curql Accelerate cohort fintech companies are Coverbase, Gestalt, IDgo, Penny Finance, and Traduality. With the cohort, Curql Accelerate will guide each fintech startup toward greater growth with structured programs and opportunities among credit unions. Meanwhile, gener8tor, a nationally ranked venture capital firm and accelerator, is powering the cohort. gener8tor has managed more than 250 accelerators and more than $2 billion in funds.
The five Curql Accelerate cohort startups will each participate in three on-site events. On September 16 through 19, the cohort was in Raleigh, North Carolina, where they engaged with Coastal Credit Union stakeholders. From October 7 through 10, the startups will venture to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, where they will visit Affinity Plus Credit Union. Then, from October 28 to 31, the cohort will connect with Desert Financial Credit Union in Phoenix, Arizona.
Working Together to Amplify Progress
During each on-site event, the fintech leaders and credit union executives will come together for networking happy hours, interactive Q&A sessions, mentor swarms, and more. These events are designed to build strong, lasting relationships by allowing credit union teams to step away from their daily routines and collaboratively explore new ways to enhance their technology. In turn, fintech founders gain invaluable insights into credit unions’ specific needs, helping shape their product direction to better address those requirements. The on-site opportunities provide startups with a deeper understanding of credit unions’ unique challenges, ensuring their fintech solutions are tailored for maximum impact.
12 Weeks of Tailored Support for Growth
In addition to these on-site opportunities, the cohort companies will receive 12 weeks of structured, mentorship-style programming and extensive networking resources.
“This second Curql Accelerate cohort is positioned to energize the industry, bringing everything from risk management, authentication, and data organization to financial planning and language tools, said Curql Collective CEO Nick Evens. “But what’s really exciting is the collaboration among these startups, investor credit unions, and our team at Curql. Together, we are amplifying innovation, and we are so excited to see how this cohort will help these startups and our industry move forward.”
Building on a Strong Foundation
Curql’s first accelerator cohort delivered outstanding results, with startups experiencing growth and credit unions gaining access to new solutions that made a meaningful difference. With the launch of this new cohort, Curql is deepening its commitment to driving progress in the credit union space and fostering partnerships that will shape the future of the industry. Read more about this cohort in our latest blog post.
About Curql Collective
Curql Collective is a collaborative ecosystem built by credit unions, for credit unions, where innovation meets purpose. With the backing of over 120 progressive credit unions, Curql invests in and accelerates the development of fintech solutions that empower credit unions to better serve their members and stay competitive in a rapidly changing financial landscape. Through Curql Fund I, Curql Fund II, and Curql Accelerate, Curql has partnered with over 40 fintech companies to bring transformative technologies directly to the credit union movement. Together, Curql is creating opportunities for growth, enhancing member experiences, and driving meaningful change across the industry. For more information, please visit https://www.curql.com/credit-unions/.
About gener8tor
gener8tor is a global venture firm and accelerator network that supports startups, workers, employers, artists and musicians across race, place and gender. gener8tor partners with corporations, governments, universities and nonprofits to operate accelerator programs and conferences in 47 communities across 23 states and four countries. Fast Company named gener8tor one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021 and 2022. The International Trade Council recognized gener8tor as the Global Venture Capital Firm of the Year in 2022 and was also recognized as an Inc. Magazine 2023 Best in Business and 2023 Power Partner. For more information, please visit www.gener8tor.com.
