MADISON, Wis.—Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions (WFCU) and the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU) have opened the application portal for the 2026 International Credit Union Development Educators (ICUDE) designation.
The ICUDE designation recognizes Credit Union Development Educators (CUDEs) who extend their leadership beyond borders by engaging with the global cooperative movement, the organizations said.
CUDEs interested in deepening their international experience and impact are encouraged to submit their applications by April 10.
“The ICUDE experience is designed for CUDEs who want to broaden their perspective and apply global insights locally,” the organizations said, adding that participants gain opportunities to:
- Strengthen their role as global cooperative leaders
- Build relationships with CUDE peers from around the world
- Translate international learning into meaningful action within their credit unions and communities.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate continued engagement in development education by completing the following components:
- Hold an active CUDE designation from one of the following national or regional DE programs: Africa DE, operated by the African Confederation of Co-operative Savings & Credit Associations (ACCOSCA); Asia DE, operated by the Association of Asian Confederation of Credit Unions (ACCU); CanadaDE, operated by the International Centre of Co-op Management (ICCM) at Saint Mary’s University; Caribbean DE (CaribDE). European DE (DEEU), operated by the Association of British Credit Unions, Ltd. (ABCUL); Philippines DE, operated by VICTO National, and United States DE, operated by the National Credit Union Foundation.
- Complete an independent study project aligned with DE learning principles and submit a 500-word written summary.
- Earn an additional DE designation outside their home country.
- Participate in a global credit union event, such as the World Credit Union Conference.
Review and Recognition
The organizations said applications will first be reviewed by national or regional CUDE program directors, with final selections confirmed by WFCU. Individuals selected for the ICUDE Class of 2026 will be formally recognized during the World Credit Union Conference, taking place July 2026 in Sydney, Australia.
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