If you ask anyone who’s attended, the Tristate Collaborative Leadership Conference isn’t just another industry event — it’s where credit union leaders go to recharge, connect, and sharpen their edge. Designed specifically for credit union professionals, this conference brings together leaders from four states — Montana, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Wisconsin — creating a unique multi-state exchange of ideas you won’t get anywhere else.
At its core, the conference is built on a simple idea: leadership isn’t developed in isolation. It happens through shared experiences, honest conversations, and learning from peers who understand both the opportunities and challenges facing credit unions today. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, the Tristate Conference gives you access to perspectives beyond your own market — helping you think bigger, lead smarter, and bring fresh energy back to your organization.
Plenty of conferences promise inspiration. The Tristate Conference delivers it—along with practical takeaways you can use right away. Over two days, attendees dive into topics like leadership development, advocacy, marketing, and the future of the credit union movement, all tailored to the real-world environment credit unions operate in.
What really sets this conference apart is the collaborative, cross-state dynamic. You’re not just hearing from speakers — you’re building relationships with leaders who are navigating similar challenges in different markets. That kind of connection often leads to the best ideas (and sometimes, the best solutions).
But don’t take our word for it. Here’s what Montana’s Credit Unions board chair, Jeremy Presta, said about the event:
“The Tristate Leadership Conference is a great example of credit unions coming together to share best practices, engage with our credit union partners, and learn from all the amazing speakers. This, all in the hopes of serving our members in the best ways possible.”
This year’s conference will take place August 4–5 at the Hyatt Regency in Bloomington, MN — and it’s shaping up to be one of the strongest lineups yet.
Attendees can expect:
You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to connect — from roundtable discussions to networking receptions — because some of the most valuable moments happen between sessions.
Registration for the 2026 conference is now open, and spots are expected to fill quickly. You can secure your place by visiting the registration page on the newly designed Tristate Collaborative website.
If you’re planning to attend, be sure to reserve your hotel early. A group rate is available through July 13 with discounted rooms offered at $154 per night for conference participants.
At a time when our industry is evolving rapidly, opportunities to learn and network matter more than ever. Past Tristate Leadership Conferences prove that when leaders from different states come together, share ideas, and challenge each other, the entire industry gets stronger. And that ultimately benefits the members and communities we serve every day.
So if you’re looking for fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and a reminder of why this work matters — the Tristate Leadership Conference is worth your time.