Stablecore has launched a new early access program that allows U.S. credit unions to explore stablecoins and digital assets before deciding whether to offer these services to their members.
The program was announced through a partnership between Stablecore, Circuit (formerly Members Development Company), and Curql, a fintech investment network supported by more than 160 credit unions.
Several credit unions have already joined the initiative, including RBFCU, Stanford Federal Credit Union, and La Capitol Federal Credit Union. Together, these institutions manage around $25 billion in assets.
The goal of the program is simple: give credit unions a chance to test digital asset services in a controlled environment before fully integrating them into their banking platforms.
Participating institutions will be able to explore a range of blockchain-based products, including stablecoin payments, tokenized deposits, Bitcoin services, crypto buying and selling, staking, and other digital asset tools.
According to Stablecore, these services are designed to fit directly into existing digital banking platforms, making the experience familiar and easy for members.
Alex Treece, CEO and co-founder of Stablecore, said credit unions remain trusted financial partners for millions of people. He believes offering digital asset services can help them stay competitive, protect deposits, and continue meeting the changing needs of their members.
Circuit’s Chief Strategy Officer, Ethan Cunningham, said the program gives credit unions a collaborative environment where they can learn about stablecoins and digital assets together while maintaining their member-focused approach.
The initiative also includes educational resources for both staff and members. Stablecore says this will help institutions better understand digital assets and prepare for future adoption.
To strengthen oversight and compliance, the company recently appointed former FDIC regulator Ben Hailey as Head of Risk and Compliance. He will help manage governance, risk management, and regulatory frameworks for partner institutions.
The new program is part of Stablecore’s broader effort to expand digital asset services across the banking sector.
Earlier this year, the company joined the Jack Henry Fintech Integration Network, giving it access to nearly 1,670 banks and credit unions that use the platform’s core banking systems.
In May, Stablecore also became a preferred digital asset technology provider for the Tennessee Bankers Association. The partnership allows more than 175 member banks to access services such as stablecoin accounts, tokenized deposits, crypto-backed lending, payment acceptance, and digital asset accounts.
Interest in stablecoins is growing among financial institutions as regulators continue working on rules for the industry.
In February, the National Credit Union Administration proposed a licensing framework that would require certain credit union-affiliated stablecoin issuers to obtain regulatory approval before launching payment stablecoins. Additional rules covering reserves, liquidity, capital requirements, and risk management are expected in the future.
As digital assets become a bigger part of the financial landscape, programs like Stablecore’s give credit unions an opportunity to learn, test, and prepare without committing to full adoption right away.
