WYCUP SCHOLARSHIP

A world of opportunity

Empowering Emerging Credit Union Leaders Worldwide

Connect your career to a world of opportunities through the WYCUP Scholarship.

For 25 years, the World Young Credit Union Professionals (WYCUP) Program has supported rising leaders who are committed to strengthening credit unions and financial cooperatives worldwide.

The scholarship recognizes young professionals who demonstrate leadership, passion and a commitment to improving lives through cooperative finance.

Why WYCUP

WYCUP is not just a scholarship — it’s a global leadership experience.

We connect emerging leaders from credit unions around the world, offering:

Global perspectives and peer learning
A strong community of young professionals
Opportunities to shape the future of cooperative finance
A network that transforms local experience into global impact

By investing in young professionals today, credit unions strengthen the movement for tomorrow.

Who Should Apply

The scholarship is designed for:

Professionals 40 years old or younger (as of January 1, 2026)
Employees or volunteers working in credit unions or cooperative financial institutions
Individuals who demonstrate leadership, initiative and commitment to cooperative values
Applicants endorsed by a WOCCU-affiliated credit union or organization (List of WOCCU members)

Preference is given to applicants involved in local YP networks or helping develop them.

What Scholars Receive

WYCUP Scholars receive:

Airfare, hotel and registration for the 2026 World Credit Union Conference (WCUC) in Sydney, Australia — July 19–22, 2026
Participation in the WYCUP & COBA Emerging Leaders’ Summit on July 19
Invitations to a global reception connecting young innovators from 70+ countries
Opportunities for international engagement throughout the year

Selection Process

A panel of WYCUP alumni and staff from the World Council of Credit Unions and Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions will review applications based on:

Demonstrated leadership and initiative
Engagement with the cooperative movement
Clarity of vision and potential for global impact
Fulfillment of eligibility requirements

Ready to Apply?

The WYCUP Scholarship Application Portal opens in early January 2026!

Since a video submission will be part of your application, now is a perfect time to start getting ready. Before you hit “record,” check out these helpful guidelines:

Your video must:

Be recorded horizontally/landscape format
Include English subtitles OR enable auto-captions if speaking another language

Video Questions to Answer:

Describe your role at your credit union/financial cooperative. Why are you an advocate for cooperative finance?
What are you hoping to learn from international peers? How can global engagement support your professional journey?
In 2026, WYCUP is celebrating 25 years of empowering young leaders. Share one way the cooperative movement can stay relevant to the next generation over the next 25 years.

Scholar Responsibilities

Selected scholars commit to:

Participating in monthly WYCUP virtual sessions
Documenting their international engagement
Following us on social media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook
Actively contributing to WYCUP and their local networks
Signing a commitment letter
Securing necessary travel visas (if applicable)

Discover the WYCUP Global Community

Curious how many WYCUP Scholars there are worldwide — and where they come from?

Click on the map to find out!