Curql Appoints Eli Vazquez, CEO of BankFund Credit Union, to Board of Managers

Curql Appoints Eli Vazquez, CEO of BankFund Credit Union, to Board of Managers 

DES MOINES, IA — Aug 19, 2025 — Curql, a collective of credit unions jointly investing in fintech, today announced the appointment of Eli Vazquez, CEO and Managing Director of BankFund Credit Union, to its Board of Managers. Vazquez brings more than three decades of leadership experience in the credit union industry, financial services, and strategic innovation. 

Proven Leadership in Credit Unions and Innovation 

As CEO of BankFund Credit Union, Vazquez leads one of the most complex credit unions in the United States, serving staff and families of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund across the globe. Since assuming the role in 2013, he has grown BankFund’s assets from $3.8 billion to $6.5 billion, expanded its lending portfolio by over $1 billion, and championed a digital-first, data-driven approach to member service. His tenure includes introducing the credit union’s first mobile banking solution, building a unified digital banking platform, launching predictive analytics capabilities, and significantly enhancing cybersecurity protections. 

Extensive Industry Experience and Governance Roles 

Prior to BankFund, Vazquez spent seven years at American Airlines Federal Credit Union in executive roles including Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President of Mortgage and Business Lending, and Senior Vice President of Card and Electronic Services. His leadership extended beyond operations into governance, with board service for organizations such as the National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU), the Southwest Regional Payments Association, and the American Airlines Federal Credit Union. Vazquez also served on innovation and advisory groups for Truestage, Engage FI, and Visa USA. 

Curql Leadership Perspective 

“Eli has dedicated his career to ensuring credit unions not only serve their members well today but are positioned for the future,” said Nick Evens, President & CEO of Curql Collective. “His depth of experience, from growing member value to advancing technology and innovation, will help strengthen Curql’s mission of bringing fintech solutions to credit unions so they can better compete and remain relevant. Eli’s perspective will be invaluable as we continue to move forward together.” 

“I’m honored to join Curql’s Board of Managers and serve alongside leaders who share a deep commitment to the credit union movement,” said Vazquez. “Curql’s work, by credit unions and for credit unions, aligns perfectly with my belief in collaboration, innovation, and keeping our industry strong for generations to come. I look forward to contributing to Curql’s efforts to connect credit unions with the fintech solutions that matter most to their members.” 

Commitment to the Credit Union Movement 

Curql’s Board of Managers is composed of experienced credit union executives whose collective expertise spans governance, strategic investment, technology adoption, and member service. Together, they guide Curql’s work in sourcing, vetting, and investing in fintech companies that empower credit unions to thrive in a competitive financial landscape. 

About Curql Collective 
Curql Collective is a fintech investment ecosystem built by credit unions, for credit unions. With the backing of over 160 progressive credit unions, Curql invests in and accelerates the development of fintech solutions that empower credit unions to better serve their members and stay competitive. Curql Fund II closed in 2025 at $360 million (the largest credit union-led fintech fund ever), following the success of Fund I ($252 million closed in 2021). Through Curql Fund I, Curql Fund II, and Curql Accelerate, the collective has partnered with over 50 fintech companies to bring transformative technologies directly to the credit union movement. Together, we’re creating opportunities for growth, enhancing member experiences, and driving meaningful change across the industry. For more information, please visit www.curql.com. 

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