APCO recognizes CUNA as top association in member representation, bipartisanship

APCO Worldwide recognized CUNA as the top-rated association in Washington, D.C., in the areas of “bipartisanship” and “member representation.” The ratings are based on APCO’s TradeMarks Study that helps trade associations measure the extent to which policy leaders believe they are effective in achieving their policy goals.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for areas that we place in the center of our advocacy efforts: bringing our members’ voices directly to policymakers, and working across the aisle on credit union priorities,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. “Our members need us moving credit union priorities forward regardless of which party is in charge. Everything we do is to serve our members, which is why we continue to focus on bringing credit unions a strong voice and presence in the nation’s capital.” 

TradeMarks Study identifies 15 key characteristics that define association effectiveness in achieving advocacy priorities for its members. Fifty trade associations were assessed by more than 300 policy leaders which rated organizations on a TradeMarks Index (TMI)—APCO’s proprietary policy effectiveness score—a 0-100 scale.

The study also revealed bringing a varied set of association members into policy conversation and with one unified voice is a way to identify and build key relationships. 

“Our study shows that the divisions within government, whether between the White House, Senate and House or tension within the Democratic and Republican caucuses, means associations need to bring a set of bipartisan and diverse stakeholders to meetings, events and interactions to ensure that all perspectives are represented yet aligned on a singular message crafted around the ask before policy makers.” said Courtney Crowder, North America chair of advocacy and managing director of APCO’s Washington, D.C., office.

CUNA was among seven other associations identified as top performers. This is the second time CUNA has been recognized for its bipartisanship efforts. 

The Hill covered the announcement Thursday, noting CUNA was named among the most effective trade associations in 2023.