North Central Area Credit Union (NCACU) and Community Promise Federal Credit Union (CPFCU) are excited to announce their partnership. The cooperative spirit that defines the credit union philosophy makes this partnership an excellent fit and a natural next step for both organizations.
NCACU and CPFCU share a mission of serving members and communities with financial solutions that improve financial well-being. Mark Richter has been a CEO in the credit union industry since 2010, leading another credit union through years of growth and ultimately merging with NCACU in 2023. At that time, he was already guiding the organization to expansion and innovation, and upon the merger became CEO of NCACU. Now, after two years, Richter has continued to drive strong growth, positioning NCACU as an innovative and community-focused financial institution expanding from $230 million in 2023 to over $250 million in assets today.
Together, NCACU and CPFCU will extend financial services into Kalamazoo, expanding the combined credit union’s reach while preserving CPFCU’s community identity. The merger aligns with NCACU’s values of innovation, engagement, and knowledgeable service. Community Promise’s legacy of financial literacy and community outreach will be strengthened by NCACU’s scale, infrastructure, and statewide charter.
KEY POINTS:
- Community Promise Federal Credit Union: CPFCU has worked closely with NCACU to continue the promise it has made to members and the Kalamazoo community. This partnership will allow for additional growth, innovative service options, and increased member support. Both organizations operate on the CU*Answers core system, making for a smooth technical integration. Members will gain access to expanded products and services, streamlined workflows, and additional branches across Michigan.
- North Central Area Credit Union: Under Mark Richter’s leadership, NCACU has demonstrated consistent growth and innovation, growing over $20 million in assets in just two years. The merger represents a low-risk, high-impact opportunity, with minimal disruption to NCACU staff and significant advantages for CPFCU members and employees, stronger back-office support, and enhanced community engagement.
“This is an exciting partnership for our members, staff, and Board of Directors,” says Richter. “Bringing both institutions together allows us to deliver more services to members in Kalamazoo, while expanding technologies, products, and staff opportunities. Our combined culture will strengthen our ability to be innovative, member-focused, and community-driven.”
Steve Witt, NCACU Board Chairperson, adds: “NCACU and CPFCU share a deep commitment to members and communities. This partnership will enhance that commitment, allowing us to grow together and serve more people across Michigan.”
The combined organization will feature seven offices across Northern and West Michigan (six member lobbies and one Administration Building), alongside robust digital banking services that provide members with convenient, innovative ways to manage their finances.
CPFCU will officially partner with NCACU November 1, 2025.
MEDIA CONTACT
North Central Area Credit Union
Tracy Wilson, VP of Marketing and Communications
P: (989) 910-5130
E: twilson@NCACU.org