Commonwealth Credit Union (CCU) and Zest AI are coming together to develop CU Lending Collective. Which is said to be a first-of-its-kind platform that enables small credit unions to benefit from AI-powered lending. This platform will allow these small credit unions to fulfill modernization needs while being cost-efficient and compliant. CU Lending Collective will allow small credit unions to benefit from its proprietary AI models. As they are effective in assessing credit risk. For consumer products such as auto loans, personal loans, credit cards, and many other products. There will also be regulatory compliance assistance, operational guidance, and technological support provided by Zest AI itself.
“This partnership represents a significant opportunity to level the playing field for small credit unions. Those that want to innovate but lack the scale of larger institutions, not just through advanced AI. But through the operational expertise required to put it to work,” said Jaynel Christensen, Executive Vice President of Commonwealth Credit Union. “Since partnering with Zest AI, we’ve delivered loan growth exceeding 14% in 2025. While maintaining strong delinquency and charge-off performance. By establishing the CU Lending Collective, we can share Commonwealth’s proven lending results, powered by Zest’s technology. To help small credit unions expand credit responsibly in their communities.”
Supporting Responsible Growth with AI-Powered Underwriting
CU Lending Collective will further provide hands-on guidance. For credit unions looking to adopt AI-powered underwriting. While strengthening compliance in a webinar titled “Inside the CU Lending Collective,” on February 25, 2026. As a result of this partnership, Commonwealth Credit Union. Zest AI is making a dramatic shift in how small credit unions are taking the leap forward. With expanded lending responsibly while retaining robust risk management practices.
“Small credit unions are the backbone of community lending, yet they are often locked out. Of the most advanced financial technology,”said Mike de Vere, CEO at Zest AI. “Adopting AI-powered lending is essential to help small institutions scale responsibly and serve more members. This partnership with Commonwealth Credit Union allows us to deliver proven AI technology already used. By hundreds of credit unions in a way that is practical, affordable, and purpose-built for small credit unions.”
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News Source: Businesswire.com
