NEW YORK — The Zelle Network said it is expanding its program aimed at increasing access to digital payments for minority depository institutions, building on partnerships with Velera and adding a new collaboration with Jack Henry.
According to a statemen from Zelle, the initiative — now in its second year — is designed to help minority depository institution (MDI) banks and credit unions adopt real-time payments technology and better serve their communities.
The company said it is renewing its work with Velera, a payments credit union service organization, to continue bringing Zelle capabilities to MDI credit unions. At the same time, Zelle said it expanding the program through a new partnership with Jack Henry to reach additional MDI banks and credit unions.
“For many minority communities, MDIs play an essential role in providing access to safe, reliable financial services,” Denise Leonhard, general manager of Zelle, said in a statement. “By continuing our work with Velera and expanding the program through Jack Henry, we’re helping more MDI banks and credit unions offer a reliable digital payments experience.”
Goal is to Reduce Barriers
The MDI access program was launched in 2025 with Velera and is intended to reduce barriers for smaller, community-based financial institutions that often face challenges adopting new technology, the company said.
Amy Evans, senior vice president of strategic solutions at Velera, said feedback from participating credit unions has been strong. “From the start, this program has been about removing barriers and helping MDIs offer the same trusted digital experiences as larger institutions,” Evans said in the statement.
The addition of Jack Henry is expected to broaden the program’s reach, as more financial institutions seek to meet growing consumer demand for faster payments.
More Than 2,300 Participants
“Real-time payments are quickly becoming a baseline expectation,” Tede Forman, president of Jack Henry Payment Solutions, said in the statement. “Through our collaboration with Zelle, we’re helping banks and credit unions that serve MDI communities modernize their payment offerings.”
Zelle said more than 2,300 financial institutions now participate in its network, with about 95% of them community banks or credit unions. The company said the expanded program reflects a longer-term effort to support institutions of varying sizes while increasing access to digital payment tools for consumers and small businesses.
