Utqiaġvik gets a new credit union branch, the northernmost in the world

Utqiaġvik's newest full-service credit union branch opened July 9 inside the AC Stuaqpak store, giving residents of the northernmost U.S. city local access to home and vehicle financing, loans, and financial guidance without leaving town.

The branch is the product of a partnership between Global Credit Union and Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC), the Alaska Native village corporation for Utqiaġvik and the largest city in the North Slope Borough, which serves more than 4,200 Iñupiat shareholders. The two organizations announced the arrangement in December 2024 with a shared goal of expanding in-person financial services on the North Slope, where residents have long had limited options for in-person banking.

"This is the northernmost branch of any credit union in the world. We're proud about this partnership with UIC and the AC Store to be able to bring global services here to this community," said Geoff Lundfelt, president and CEO of Global Credit Union.

Locating the branch inside the AC Stuaqpak store puts banking where residents already go for groceries and other household needs. The addition gives residents greater choice among financial institutions for opening accounts, financing homes or vehicles, and receiving financial guidance. Increased competition can also encourage more competitive products and services, creating lasting benefits for consumers. Global, formerly known as Alaska USA Federal Credit Union, rebranded in 2023 and now serves more than 750,000 members across more than 70 branches.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together community members, local leaders, and partners from UIC, Alaska Commercial Company, and the Alaska Small Business Development Center. UIC President and CEO Dr. Pearl K. Brower framed the branch as part of a broader shareholder-first mandate. "Sometimes that means investing in economic development. Sometimes it means supporting housing, education, or workforce development. And sometimes it means bringing essential services closer to home, so life becomes a little easier for our shareholders and their families," Brower said.

Global is prioritizing local hiring for financial service representative and management positions, creating career pathways for UIC shareholders and other Utqiaġvik residents.