DuPage Credit Union Partners with Upstart for Enhanced Personal Lending Experience

Jason DeGarmo, Chief Lending Officer at DuPage Credit Union, emphasized the institution’s commitment to assisting its members in building strong financial futures. “At DuPage Credit Union, our focus is helping our members build strong financial futures and achieve lasting financial well-being,” stated DeGarmo. He highlighted that a seamless lending experience is pivotal to this mission. Through the partnership with Upstart, DuPage Credit Union aims to simplify the application process and enhance onboarding, which in turn will help deepen the relationship with its members.

The partnership kicked off in January 2026, marking the beginning of DuPage Credit Union's personal lending program expansion through Upstart. Qualified personal loan applicants, who meet the credit union’s established credit policies, will receive customized loan offers via Upstart.com. This transition will lead applicants into a DuPage Credit Union-branded experience for completing their online membership application and loan closing process.

Ed Walters, Vice President of Lending Partnerships at Upstart, expressed enthusiasm about the new collaboration. “We’re excited to welcome DuPage Credit Union to the family of Upstart lending partners,” he remarked. Walters noted that this partnership allows DuPage Credit Union to access a larger pool of qualified borrowers, thereby growing personal loan volume and introducing new members to the credit union. The seamless digital experience provided by Upstart is expected to significantly enhance customer satisfaction and engagement.

Founded in 2012 and based in San Mateo, California, Upstart is an AI-driven lending marketplace that connects millions of consumers with over 100 banks and credit unions. The platform utilizes advanced AI models and cloud applications to deliver superior credit products. Upstart's technology enables lenders to approve more borrowers at lower rates while providing a digital-first experience that meets consumer demand. Remarkably, over 90% of loans processed through Upstart are fully automated, requiring no human intervention.

DuPage Credit Union operates as a not-for-profit financial institution, serving more than 46,000 members across Illinois. The credit union offers a comprehensive suite of banking solutions, including personal loans, vehicle loans, credit cards, and mortgage loans. Membership is available to individuals living or working in several counties, as well as students attending school in DuPage County. With a commitment to member service and financial education, DuPage Credit Union aims to foster financial stability and growth within its community.

The partnership between DuPage Credit Union and Upstart represents a significant step toward modernizing personal lending and enhancing the customer experience. By leveraging Upstart’s innovative technology and streamlined processes, DuPage Credit Union is poised to expand its reach and impact within the Illinois community, ultimately fulfilling its mission of fostering financial well-being among its members.