West coast-based credit union supports small businesses with more than $71M in SBA Loans

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – November 28, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) ranks as the top Small Business Administration (SBA) credit union lender in the United States. The list ranks all financial institutions across the country based on the approved dollar amount of SBA loans. As the top credit union on the list, AFCU has $71,754,300 in approved SBA loans, averaging $1,176,300 per loan.

“America First Credit Union is proud to be ranked as the number one credit union SBA lender in the nation,” said Blake Weathers, senior vice president of commercial lending at AFCU. “Small businesses are at the very heart of our communities, and it is our honor to work with and support these businesses by providing the resources they need to thrive and grow.”

AFCU employs a dedicated team of small business lenders to support new start-ups and help established small businesses grow. As part of that commitment, the credit union strives to be a trusted business partner, lending financial support to small businesses that, in turn, support their communities.

“As an entrepreneur and businessman, I have worked with many financial institutions over the past 30 years. I can honestly say that our relationship with America First Credit Union has been a breath of fresh air compared to most of those previous experiences” said Jim Huffman, owner of Huffman Health Services. “They are honest, straight forward, and know the meaning of the word ‘partnership’. They have supported the vision and growth of our company, and stepped up when we needed their support. I cannot imagine working with another group, and I give them my highest recommendation.”

“Thanks to America First Credit Union, I was able to secure an SBA-7A loan that allowed me purchase a local sign company that has been in business in Ogden, UT since 1929” said Zena E. Manley, owner of Richards Sign Company. “The prior owners had to retire suddenly due to a health matter, which could have resulted in the closing of the shop and the laying off of myself and several other employees. However, after I spoke to a loan officer at AFCU it became apparent that I was able to purchase the company with the aid of the SBA loan program. Working closely with the loan officer, I was able to easily navigate the federal requirements, applications, and forms for the loan and successfully purchased the company. I found the entire process to be friendly, informative, and highly professional. I would gladly recommend AFCU to other small business owners and look forward to my continued partnership with AFCU.”

In addition to being recognized as the top SBA credit union lender, AFCU supports small businesses in additional ways. The credit union’s Small Business Showcase is held annually with its sports partners, including the Utah Jazz, Las Vegas Raiders, and Real Salt Lake, where small businesses apply for the program, and the winning small business receives a suite of on-site and online marketing opportunities through each team. Additionally, AFCU offers a variety of small business calculators for members to determine startup costs, evaluate the business, and understand business financial ratios, among others.

The SBA list showing the full rankings can be found here: https://careports.sba.gov/views/7a504LenderReport/LenderReport?%3Aembed=yes&%3Atoolbar=no

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 118 locations across the five western states of Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. America First is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $19 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702-318-4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

Multi-year partnership will name Utes’ on-campus home America First Ballpark

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, November 14, 2023

SALT LAKE CITY—The University of Utah Athletics Department and America First Credit Union today announced a multi-year partnership to name the Utah baseball program’s future on-campus home America First Ballpark.

The 10-year naming rights agreement comes as part of the fundraising drive that began in the spring of 2023 after the University of Utah’s Board of Trustees granted contingency approval for the construction of an on-campus ballpark to be located on the site of the current Utah Baseball practice field on Guardsman Way. It is expected to open in 2025.

“We are incredibly grateful for the tremendous partnership between America First Credit Union and Utah Athletics,” said Mark Harlan, Director of Athletics. “This generous investment by AFCU to name our on-campus baseball stadium is another demonstration of their strong commitment to supporting our student-athletes and our athletics programs, and an illustration of the excitement around bringing Utah Baseball back to campus. It further extends AFCU’s ongoing support of not only Utah Athletics but the entire University of Utah community. These types of partnerships elevate each organization, and we are extremely grateful. America First Ballpark will be a shared community asset.”

Plans call for a 1,200-seat ballpark with fan amenities including concessions, restrooms, ticket office and merchandise sales, as well as facilities for the Utah baseball program, including locker rooms, coaches’ offices, medical space, equipment storage and indoor batting/pitching cages. The total project is expected to cost $35 million, with the majority of the funding privately raised.

“America First is grateful for our continued and expanded relationship with Utah Athletics as their official credit union and now naming rights partner for the new baseball stadium,” said Tammy Gallegos, Chief Marketing and Strategic Engagement Officer at America First. “We believe our two organizations are hitting a home run in creating meaningful experiences for the community and helping our athletes and members alike build a bright financial future one inning at a time.”

America First Credit Union has been a long-term partner of Utah Athletics, and has established a strong commitment to enhancing and improving the communities in which it has a presence. AFCU continues to provide integral support to Utah Athletics’ “Utes With Wings” program, which supports scholarships, facilities and programs for the Utes’ women’s sports teams, while also being a prominent contributor in creating meaningful opportunities for Utah’s student-athletes to benefit from Name, Image and Likeness activity. AFCU also introduced the official Utah Athletics-branded Visa debit card in August, allowing cardholders to show off their Utah Utes pride with every purchase they make.

The design phase of America First Ballpark is underway, and construction is expected to begin this winter. The Utes will continue to play their home games at Smith’s Ballpark in downtown Salt Lake City for the 2024 season, with the intention of moving to America First Ballpark in time for the 2025 season.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION:

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 118 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $19 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Paul Kirk
Utah Athletics
801.875.2444
pkirk@huntsman.utah.edu

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Utah Jazz fans can support their favorite NBA team with a limited-edition 2023-24 season AFCU debit card

SALT LAKE CITY – Oct. 25, 2023 – America First Credit Union is proud to be the official credit union of the Utah Jazz. As the team prepares for the upcoming 2023-24 Season, America First is debuting a new, limited-edition version of the exclusive Utah Jazz Visa® debit card. The 2023 limited edition card showcases the bold Utah Jazz yellow and black colors and features the signature Jazz note logo.

The Utah Jazz Visa debit card is available at no cost to all America First members with Classic Checking and Premium Checking accounts, and it’s packed with features and benefits, such as:

• Powerful Security^® — Pay with confidence thanks to the cutting-edge protection of Card Guard®, EMV chip technology, purchase & fraud protection, and more
• Worldwide Access — Access your cash from anywhere with no-fee withdrawals at over 30,000 ATMs around the globe and the almost unlimited acceptance of Visa
• Unbeatable Service — Get the quick, responsive help you deserve, online, over the phone, or in person

Additionally, when visiting the Delta Center, the America First Utah Jazz Visa card gives members 10% off purchases at Summit Snacks, Tenders, Farr’s Ice Cream, and Dippin’ Dots, 15% discount on Utah Jazz Team Store and 32% off Team Store purchases after a Jazz player hits a triple-double. Card holders will also have special game-day entry 30 minutes before the public.

The Utah Jazz Visa debit card is the perfect way to pay while showing your team spirit with every dip, tap, or swipe. And you can only get it at America First Credit Union. Available for a limited time, and only while supplies last.

To learn more or get the exclusive Jazz card, visit www.americafirst.com/jazz/jazzcard.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 120 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

 ABOUT THE UTAH JAZZ

Founded as the 18th member of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1974, and located in Salt Lake City since 1979, the Utah Jazz are committed to excellence as a team and in the community. On the court, the Jazz are the second-winningest team in the NBA over the last 30 years, having won nine division titles and two Western Conference championships along with 17 seasons of 50-plus wins, and are supported by one of the most passionate fan bases in all of sports. The Utah Jazz also operate the Junior Jazz program, the largest and longest-running youth basketball league in the NBA, featuring more than 60,000 players and an additional 13,000 volunteers who take part annually across six states. For more information on the Utah Jazz, an entity of Smith Entertainment Group, visit www.utahjazz.com.

Score big with the new debit card from the official credit union of Utah Athletics

Salt Lake City – Aug. 22, 2023 – University of Utah Athletics fans have a new way to support their favorite team with the help of America First Credit Union. As the official credit union of the University of Utah Athletics, America First announced the official Utah Athletics debit card. The card features the Utah logo on a sleek white background with a visible crimson core, allowing cardholders to show off their Utah pride with every purchase.

“We’re excited to give our members another way to show their Ute pride wherever they go with the exclusive University of Utah Athletics debit card,” said Tammy Gallegos, Chief Marketing and Strategic Engagement Officer at America First. “We love being part of this amazing community of fans and appreciate our partners at the University of Utah Athletics for helping us provide a fun way to connect with our members, fans and community.”

The debit card, available for all America First Credit Union members, allows cardholders access to Rice-Eccles Stadium 30 minutes before doors open to the public — two hours before kickoff time — to catch an early glimpse of pregame warmups. Cardholders will also get the opportunity to access exclusive ticket deals and pricing for many other University of Utah sporting events.

“We’re thrilled that America First Credit Union has introduced the Utah Athletics debit card,” said Mark Harlan, Director of Athletics. “This is an exciting new opportunity for our passionate fans to show their great pride in Utah Athletics, and we’re grateful for our tremendous partners at AFCU for creating new ways to connect with our fans.”

Packed with features, benefits, and discounts, the Utah Athletics debit card is available with both America First’s Classic and Premium Checking accounts. Its features and benefits include Card Guard, worldwide access and more.

To learn more or get the exclusive Utah Athletics debit card, visitamericafirst.com/uofu.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $18 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

Utah-based Elite Turf Supply receives a $200K sponsorship with the Utah Jazz

SALT LAKE CITY – Aug 18, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) and the Utah Jazz are excited to announce today Elite Turf Supply as the grand prize winner of its annual “Small Business Spotlight” contest. The Utah-based artificial turf supplier was announced as the contest winner during a live finals event at Delta Center. As the winner, America First Credit Union will provide Elite Turf Supply with a single-season sponsorship agreement with the Utah Jazz valued at approximately $200,000. The winner will also receive arena signage, logo design assistance, media coverage, and the opportunity to participate in business and marketing strategy meetings with Utah Jazz and AFCU executives.

“I don’t know that I’ve ever been more excited,” said Taylor Brown, co-owner of Elite Turf Supply. “With this sponsorship, we can do more of what we do — helping people learn the benefits of artificial turf, conserve water, and even start their own small businesses. It’s all about the community, and we’re grateful to the Utah Jazz and America First.”

Elite Turf Supply started as a modest family endeavor in 2019, laying turf in their backyard play area, and has quickly become a rapid success story. In the past two years, the customer-turned-owner small business has grown into a national turf supplier offering various applications, from putting greens and versatile athletic turf to residential and commercial landscaping solutions, including pet-friendly options. Now as Utah’s premier artificial turf supplier, Elite Turf Supply continues its mission to create and educate about the benefits of artificial turf, help homeowners DIY their outdoor spaces and has launched more than 20 turf installation companies along the way.

“We congratulate Elite Turf Supply on their impressive business journey and receiving the recognition as the Small Business Spotlight contest winner,” said Thayne Shaffer, America First Credit Union President and CEO. “At America First Credit Union, we’re dedicated to fostering small businesses like Elite Turf Supply, who exemplify innovation and commitment to their community. We appreciate our partners at the Utah Jazz who help us empower and support local businesses as they contribute to our communities and economic growth.”

“On a day-to-day basis, the Utah Jazz try to partner with companies who want to lean into community initiatives with us,” said Chris Barney, Chief Commercial Officer, Utah Jazz. “We’re excited to partner with Elite Turf Supply, for our team to engage with theirs, and to build on the success they have obviously already had. Small business runs America, and I admire all the finalists and businesses who participated.”

The winner and finalists were invited to a special event to showcase their businesses. Finalists of the 2023 Small Business Spotlight competition include: (listed in alphabetical order)

• Caffé Molise
• Elite Turf Supply
• Intergalactic
• Modelic
• Premier Day Spa
• Utah Sunrooms LLC

Finalists were evaluated on how well they represent Utah, how much they currently give back to the community, and how this opportunity will help them execute their business objectives successfully. The six finalists were picked by a panel of judges comprised of AFCU and Utah Jazz representatives and community and business leaders. The 2023 contest garnered around 150 entries from small businesses across Utah.

For more information about the contest, visit AFCU’s website.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 120 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Credit Union is Also the Top SBA Credit Union Lender in the U.S.

Members of America First Credit Union’s Nevada Business/Commercial Lending team at the Nevada SBA Awards luncheon on May 4, 2023. AFCU was awarded 2022 Lender of the Year. Pictured: Gina Maceo, Roger Unger, Frank Tavares, and AFCU’s SVP Commercial Lending, Blake Weathers.

LAS VEGAS, NV – May 9, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) was honored at the Nevada Small Business Administration (SBA) Awards luncheon on May 4 at the Westgate Resort in Las Vegas, receiving the award for 2022 Lender of the Year. The annual SBA Awards Luncheon honors small businesses in Nevada, which are vital to our communities as they create new jobs, help drive the economy, and demonstrate dynamic leadership.

In addition to being recognized as the top small business lender in Nevada, AFCU is also listed as the #1 credit union SBA lender in the country for 2022. With these recognitions, AFCU has affirmed its commitment to supporting small businesses in the communities it serves.  “We’re honored to be the number-one SBA lender in Nevada and proud to champion small businesses throughout the Silver State” said Blake Weathers, senior vice president of Commercial Lending at AFCU. “These diverse and dynamic organizations are the backbone of the communities they serve, and it’s such a privilege for America First to be able to partner with them and to help provide the resources they need to thrive and grow.”

AFCU employs a dedicated team of small business lenders to support new start-ups, as well as helping established small businesses grow. As part of that commitment, the credit union strives to be a trusted business partner, lending financial support to small businesses who in turn support their communities.  “We have a world-class business services team, and this recognition is a testament to their expertise and their commitment to helping every one of our business members succeed” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of AFCU.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $18 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

Riverdale, UT – April 18, 2023 – The 84^th Annual Meeting of America First Credit Union (AFCU) was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 3 p.m. MDT. Linda Carver, current chair of the board of directors, welcomed both in-person and virtual attendees and thanked them for their participation. President/CEO of the Utah Credit Union Association, Scott Simpson, was in attendance along with longtime supporter of the credit union and attorney, Bruce Richards, who served as parliamentarian. Other members of the board were introduced and recognized for their many years of dedication and service to the credit union. Thayne Shaffer, President and CEO was also present and recognized, along with members of senior management. Linda also extended a special word of gratitude towards the 3,270 employees for their hard work, loyalty, and dedication to improving service to our members.

A key focal point to each annual meeting is the election of members to serve on the board of directors. In accordance with America First bylaws, three qualified candidates were identified, screened, and elected by acclamation. John Spease, who serves as chair of the Nominations Committee, explained the qualifications, duties and responsibilities required of board members. Mr. Spease announced the election results, and we congratulate Linda Carver, Gil Miller, and James Wendler who will continue to serve as members of the board of directors for America First Credit Union. These volunteers generously give of their time, talents, expertise, and experience for the betterment of the credit union and have the financial well-being of the members in mind.

Remarks from both Linda Carver and Thayne Shaffer are recorded in the 84^th Annual Meeting report, and their messages can be viewed online under the Memberline link. Linda closed the meeting with a heartfelt message of sincere appreciation to the members and recognized the turbulent economic times and challenges members face. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and conveyed commitment and dedication to work through hard times with the hopes of a bright future. Meeting adjourned at approximately 3:15 p.m. MDT.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Last Call for Applications for Ten Scholarships Valued at $5,000 Each

SALT LAKE CITY – April 21, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) is accepting applications for its America First Charitable Foundation Scholarship Program until April 30. In celebration of its fifth year of the scholarship program, AFCU is increasing the ten scholarships to $5,000 each ($1,000 in previous years) for graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students at two- and four-year technical colleges or universities who share a desire to serve others.

The mission of the America First Charitable Foundation is to encourage and administer contributions for educational scholarships. These are awarded based on a student’s commitment to community service as well as leadership and academic potential. They are intended to help America First members pursue post-secondary education and training.

To be eligible, applicants must submit a copy of their current transcript, including their grade point average (GPA), as well as their hours of community service. Applicants must also submit a short essay on how their community service exemplifies the credit union philosophy of people helping people—those who play an active role in giving back to their community, whether through volunteering or other meaningful contributions of time, effort, and care.

All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee consisting of America First employees who represent diversity in business, education and community background. Selection is made without regard to applicant’s race, color, national origin, religious belief, sex, marital status, age, or physical handicap.

The deadline is fast approaching. Applications must be received no later than Sunday, April 30, 2023. The scholarship application can be found and submitted on America First’s website.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RIVERDALE, UT – April 21, 2023 – In celebration of National Financial Literacy Month, America First Credit Union (AFCU) is awarding ten (10) classroom parties to lucky local schools. AFCU strongly believes that teaching the next generation about smart money management and good monetary habits can put them on the path to financial success. To nominate a class, simply write a brief essay or recorded video about why financial literacy is important. Essays and videos can be submitted through AFCU’s website no later than April 30, 2023.

When it comes to managing money, education is the foundation to understanding the ins and outs of finance. A report from the National Financial Educators Council shows that 38% of individuals in a recent survey said their lack of financial literacy cost them at least $500 in 2022, including 15% who said it set them back by $10,000 or more—up from about 11% in 2021.

To aid in financial literacy in the community, AFCU offers a free program, FUNDamentals—a customizable, financial literacy program created for kindergarten through 12th grade students and teachers.

“Our goal is to make financial literacy easily accessible to educators and students,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of America First Credit Union. “FUNDamentals is designed to make learning about finances fun and engaging. By teaching youth about money matters, we can help put them on the path to financial success.”

The program includes various full-lesson plans for K–fifth and sixth–12th grades covering topic areas that address 10 of the most important critical life skills, including spending, saving, getting a loan, and other financial subjects. Each includes engaging animated videos, handouts, presentations, lesson plans, printable certificates, and other useful resources to inform students while keeping them entertained. Lessons are aligned with Utah State Financial Literacy graduation requirement, Common Core Math, and Common Core English Language Arts requirements. Compared to other programs on the market, FUNDamentals is a free, has up-to-date information, and offers specialized content catered to youth.

Teachers can request access to the program a free virtual or an in-person visit from a guest speaker by visiting education.americafirst.com.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com