The CRIF User conference was a fantastic time with current Credit Unions, Corporate Partnerships, as well as Auto Dealerships. Having some of CRIF’s auto dealerships (some of the largest in the country) was new this year and was very well received by all. Thanks to everyone who participated, as we had a meaningful time with each other and a lot of fun as well.
CRIF Select recently hosted its biggest client event yet, bringing together credit unions, leading vendors, and auto dealers from across the country for the 2025 CRIF Select User Forum.
Held at the Vinoy Resort in downtown St. Petersburg, FL, the conference theme was “Setting Sail to the Future of Auto Finance,” and the event was packed with energy, innovation, and a shared optimism about the future of indirect lending — even in a shifting economic landscape.
The September forum, including its record attendance, underscored the momentum the CRIF Select community is seeing as member-owned financial cooperatives strive to attract new business and serve their existing member base with seamless service at the best rates in their individual markets.
Credit Unions Are Charging Forward
While indirect lending is softening across the broader auto-lending industry, CRIF clients are seeing a different story play out. Conversations with credit union leaders revealed a strong sense of optimism and opportunity.
Far from pulling back, attendees were focused on expanding their indirect lending programs and sharpening their strategies. CRIF Select, meanwhile, shared how our tools, techniques, and teamwork were helping forward-looking cooperatives take advantage of opportunities the market still presents.
3 Key Takeaways Credit Unions Should Know
- Indirect Lending Is Still A Growth Engine — Every lender in attendance expressed a desire to grow their programs, not shrink them. Despite industry headwinds, credit unions in the CRIF network are seeing strong performance and real potential they’re now leveraging.
- Technology Is Non-Negotiable — From AI to automation, the indirect lending space is evolving rapidly. Adopting smarter tech isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential to staying competitive.
- Market Competitiveness Demands Strategic Focus — Credit unions need to stay sharp on loan structure, rates, funding durations, dealer relationships, and promotional campaigns. Success means getting all of these right.
Tech Tools Built For Lending Now And Beyond
The conference had a particular focus on CRIF Select’s two major strategies for supporting and growing credit union auto lending.
CRIF Foundation Framework
A cutting-edge suite of business process management tools that automate the entire lending lifecycle, from data capture to booking, the CRIF Foundation Framework (CFF) helps credit unions:
- Streamline operations.
- Connect all systems and participants.
- Tailor workflows to their specific credit process needs.
Digital Onboard Verification
Powered by AI, Digital Onboard Verification (DOV) is CRIF’s fastest-ever identity verification solution, delivering 99% fraud protection in less than two minutes. Key features include:
- Biometric identity verification with facial recognition.
- Real-time results for faster approvals.
- Lower operational costs and reduced compliance risk.
- A smoother, faster, and safer onboarding experience.
For credit unions, these tools mean higher efficiency, stronger fraud defense, and better member experiences.
Conversations That Mattered
The theme this year — Setting Sail to the Future of Auto Finance — was more than just a nod to the Tampa Bay venue. It reflects the mindset of CRIF’s user community: ready to move forward, adapt, and lead in a competitive environment.
Attendees dug into the strategic role of dealer insights, shared tech investment experiences, and discussed how to remain agile in a crowded lending marketplace.
One standout session came from Phil Lucas, vice president of strategy at Accolade Advisory, who broke down how to build a competitive pricing framework. His talk left lenders with real, tactical ideas they could implement immediately.
Celebrating Credit Union Excellence
CRIF’s biannual awards ceremony was another highlight of the event, honoring standout credit union partners:
- 5Point Credit Union — 2025 Dashing Debut Award
In just over a year with CRIF, 5Point Credit Union ($1.0B, Nederland, TX) didn’t just meet expectations—they crushed them, surpassing previous performance benchmarks in record time. - Directions Credit Union — 2025 Next Level Achievement Award
A CRIF partner since 2007, Directions Credit Union ($1.4B, Toledo, OH) continues to raise the bar—both in member service and market impact, particularly through its leasing success with CULA. - iThink Financial Credit Union — 2025 Growth Driver Award
iThink Financial Credit Union ($2.2B, Delray Beach, FL) is blazing a trail across the Southeast, expanding rapidly through purpose-driven programs and strategic growth in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas.
Until Next Time: The Value Of Community
Ultimately, the conference was about building relationships — among and between lenders, dealers, and with the CRIF team. This event created new lines of communication that are already driving collaboration and innovation in indirect lending.
We’re already planning the next chapter: The 2027 CRIF Select User Forum.
Meanwhile, check out these links to learn more about our loan origination, digital Onboarding, and decision engine solutions.
And to learn more about CRIF Select and our dynamic user community, go to www.crif.us , email us at sales@crif.com or call (866) 885-6029.
