Rocky Hill, CT — March 20, 2025 — DaLand CUSO, a leading innovator in financial technology solutions for credit unions, proudly announces Blaze Credit Union as its second-largest shareholder. This strategic partnership strengthens DaLand's commitment to delivering transformative solutions tailored to the needs of credit unions.
Blaze Credit Union joins Principal Owner St. Cloud Financial Credit Union, along with Altra Credit Union and DaLand employees, in advancing DaLand’s mission to equip credit unions with cutting-edge digital asset solutions and member-centric innovations. With the addition of $4.5 billion in assets and 250,000 members from Blaze, DaLand's credit union ownership group now represents a collective asset base exceeding $7.2 billion in cumulative assets and over 400,000 members. This ownership structure ensures that DaLand’s solutions are built by credit unions, for credit unions—reinforcing the cooperative model and driving long-term industry success.
A Powerful Coalition for the Future of Credit Unions
“Our growing ownership base reflects the trust and strategic alignment we have with forward-thinking credit unions like Blaze,” said Jed Meyer, Board Chair of DaLand CUSO. “Together, we are setting the foundation for the future of financial services, ensuring credit unions have access to the digital tools they need to compete, grow, and serve their members effectively.”
Blaze Credit Union’s leadership shares this enthusiasm for innovation and collaboration.
“Investing in DaLand CUSO is an investment in the future of our members and the broader credit union movement,” said Dan Stoltz, Blaze Credit Union CEO/President. “As digital transformation reshapes financial services, we recognize the importance of being at the forefront of that change—ensuring our members have access to the most secure, efficient, and member-first solutions available.”
DaLand CUSO’s CEO also emphasized the significance of Blaze joining its ownership group.
“The future of financial technology belongs to those who build it,” said Jeff Levesque, CEO at DaLand CUSO. “Blaze Credit Union’s investment not only strengthens our collective ability to innovate but also ensures that credit unions remain at the helm of shaping solutions that put members first.”
This investment underscores the industry’s shift toward core-centric innovation, where credit unions are taking a proactive role in developing technology that keeps them plugged into the future of money. CUSO stands for Credit Union Service Organization, which is a separate entity owned by a group of credit unions to provide shared services for their members.
About DaLand CUSO
Since 2011, DaLand CUSO has been a pioneer in the Next Generation CUSO model, collaborating with credit unions to deliver innovative project management and technology-driven solutions. Unlike traditional CUSOs, DaLand operates with a focus on preserving the relevance of community financial institutions by integrating advancements in blockchain, DeFi, AI, and data sciences. Our mission is to empower credit unions to thrive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape while enhancing financial literacy and driving local economic growth. www.DaLandCUSO.com
About Blaze Credit Union
Blaze is a full-service financial institution with Minnesota roots dating back to 1931. Proudly serving nearly 250,000 members, Blaze has 28 branch locations and registers over $4.5B in assets. Blaze is here to help members go for it, whatever their “it” may be, providing guidance along life’s twists and turns. Driven by Midwestern values like community, integrity, and plain old hard work, Blaze Credit Union is committed to providing smart financial products, great rates, and top-tier service as it lives its purpose of creating better lives. For more information, visit blazecu.com.
About Altra Federal Credit Union
Altra Federal Credit Union, originally established in 1931 as Trane Employees Credit Union in La Crosse, WI, has evolved to serve members across all 50 states and worldwide. With nearly $3 billion in assets, Altra is committed to its mission “To create member loyalty by providing products, services, and guidance that enable our members, staff, and communities to prosper.” Their vision, “Helping You Live Your Best Life,” highlights their dedication to empowering members and enhancing their quality of life. For more information, visit www.altra.org.