For Credit Unions

Winning NACUSO’s Next Big Idea: What We Learned and What’s Next for Goodbuy

When Goodbuy was named the winner of NACUSO’s 2025 Next Big Idea competition, it wasn’t just a recognition of our vision—it was a validation of our mission. Standing on that stage in front of hundreds of credit union leaders was both thrilling and humbling, but it was only the beginning.

What We Learned
  1. The Credit Union Industry Is Ready for Innovation:
    • Our win reinforced that credit unions are actively seeking new ways to engage their members and support their communities. It’s not just about financial services—it’s about delivering value that aligns with their members’ values.
  2. Small Businesses Are the Key to Member Engagement
    • Our marketplace approach connects members with values-aligned, independent small businesses. We saw firsthand that this resonates not just with credit unions but with their members who want to shop in ways that matter.
  3. Collaboration Is Everything
    • From our incredible coaches to the supportive NACUSO community, we learned the power of partnership. Winning wasn’t just about our idea—it was about the feedback, encouragement, and insights we received along the way.
What’s Next: Our Vision for 2025

As we continue to scale, our focus is clear:

  • Expanding Our Credit Union Network:
    • We’re already engaging with several innovative credit unions eager to bring Goodbuy to their members.
  • Enhancing the Platform:
    • Our product roadmap includes loyalty point integration, making it even easier for members to save while supporting small businesses.
  • Deepening Impact:
    • We’re committed to driving meaningful impact for both members and local businesses, creating a cycle of community support.

Winning NACUSO’s Next Big Idea is an incredible milestone, but it’s just the start. We’re building a future where every credit union can deliver authentic, community-centered value—and we can’t wait to see where this journey takes us.

Author

Cary Telander Fortin
Co-Founder, goodbuy
Cary has always been an entrepreneur and collaborator. She co-founded her first company, New Minimalism: Decluttering + Redesign, in 2013, helping people see beautiful potential for their homes, and lives beyond fast fashion and mindless consumption. What Cary brings to goodbuy is her focus on community building, on living deeply into brand values, and an endless well of empathy and love for small business owners and consumers doing their best to shop intentionally in this hectic world.