ACU History

A Legacy of Progress: From 1930 to Today

What started as a small vision in 1930 has grown into a thriving credit union dedicated to serving our communities. Through decades of innovation, expansion, and unwavering commitment to our members, we continue to evolve—always staying true to our values while embracing the future of banking.

A Legacy of Growth, A Future of Possibilities

Our journey began in 1930 with a simple yet powerful mission: to serve our members and communities with integrity, trust, and a commitment to financial well-being. From our roots as the Hormel Employees Credit Union to becoming Accentra Credit Union, we’ve grown, evolved, and embraced change—always guided by our seven core values.

Founded on the principles of cooperative banking, we’ve spent the last nine decades building a financial institution that puts people over profits. Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to our members. From the first 25-cent membership fee to surpassing $200 million in assets, every milestone reflects our commitment to providing Simply Better Banking.

Continued Growth & Community Impact

We’ve continued to expand our reach and impact. With a mission to bring Simply Better Banking to more people, we’ve:

  • Grown to over $200 million in assets—a testament to the trust our members place in us.

  • Celebrated almost 95 years of service—a legacy built on relationships and community connections.

  • Strengthened our presence across eight counties, ensuring more individuals and families have access to the financial services they deserve.

As we move toward our centennial celebration, our focus remains the same—empowering our members, investing in our communities, and staying true to the values that have defined us since day one.

  • The Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) opened on December 1, 1930 and was located in the Hormel Plant. This photo was taken in 1950 when there were six staff members and total assets reached $2 million.

    The Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) opened on December 1, 1930 and was located in the Hormel Plant. This photo was taken in 1950 when there were six staff members and total assets reached $2 million.

  • Groundbreaking for the 1962 Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) building. This was the first physical location outside of the George A. Hormel Company. The land for this building was purchased for $4,000.

    Groundbreaking for the 1962 Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) building. This was the first physical location outside of the George A. Hormel Company. The land for this building was purchased for $4,000.

  • In January 1984, Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) held groundbreaking ceremonies for what is our present-day Austin location.

    In January 1984, Accentra Credit Union (Hormel Employees Credit Union) held groundbreaking ceremonies for what is our present-day Austin location.

  • The 1999 groundbreaking for the remodel of Accentra Credit Union's current location.

    The 1999 groundbreaking for the remodel of Accentra Credit Union's current location.

  • The 2005 groundbreaking for the Albert Lea branch of Accentra Credit Union. Shown here are Darlene Thaisen, Mike Case, Kim Schroeder, David Kubat, Lon Krueger, David Raffelson, Aaron DeJong, Gordy Kuehne and John Gray.

    The 2005 groundbreaking for the Albert Lea branch of Accentra Credit Union. Shown here are Darlene Thaisen, Mike Case, Kim Schroeder, David Kubat, Lon Krueger, David Raffelson, Aaron DeJong, Gordy Kuehne and John Gray.

  • Accentra Credit Union's Albert Lea branch shown here in 2008.

    Accentra Credit Union's Albert Lea branch shown here in 2008.

  • Accentra Credit Union's Austin location in 2008. Total assets were over $101 million.

    Accentra Credit Union's Austin location in 2008. Total assets were over $101 million.

  • A CU member with tellers in the 1960's.

    A CU member with tellers in the 1960's.

Join us as we continue the journey. The best is yet to come!