Washington, D.C., August 28, 2025 – CUCollaborate, a leading credit union consulting firm specializing in data analytics and strategic planning, today announced a formal partnership with The Element Group, a premier design-build firm focused on financial institution branch development. The partnership creates a comprehensive solution for credit unions seeking to optimize their physical footprint through data-driven location analysis and intentional branch design.
The announcement comes at a critical time for the credit union industry, as leaders work to balance digital transformation with the continued importance of physical presence. Recent industry data shows that the overwhelming majority of credit union members live within five miles of a branch, and members who move beyond this radius are significantly more likely to close their accounts.
"At The Element Group, our mission has always been to create intentional, engaging spaces that strengthen connections between credit unions and their members," said Nate Baldasaro and William Foley, Founders of The Element Group. "Partnering with CUCollaborate allows us to expand that impact by pairing their deep, data-driven insights with our design-build expertise. Together, we’re empowering credit unions to make smarter decisions about where and how they grow, ensuring every branch not only reflects their brand but also meets members where they are."
"Credit unions are looking to partner with full-service vendors that provide holistic solutions to their complex growth challenges," added Sam Brownell, Founder and CEO of CUCollaborate. "Our partnership with The Element Group will allow us to support credit unions throughout the entirety of their branching journey."
About CUCollaborate
CUCollaborate is a data and analytics CUSO that helps credit unions maximize growth, impact, and performance. We empower credit unions to adapt and thrive by combining proprietary data and technology with deep subject matter expertise to drive smarter strategic decision-making. Our creative strategies, rooted in our unique technical approach powered by data-driven insights, enable credit unions to stay competitive, optimize performance, and expand their impact in an evolving financial landscape.
About The Element Group
The Element Group is a full-service design-build firm dedicated to transforming community banks and credit unions nationwide. With the motto “Every Bit Matters,” the firm specializes in delivering memorable and future-facing retail branch environments that help financial institutions stand out and grow. From architectural and interior design to graphic design, digital signage, promotional products, and training, The Element Group offers a collaborative, end-to-end solution tailored to each client’s unique goals.
Press Release
