Customer Success Story

Modernizing the Member Journey Through End-to-End Digital Transformation   

How Blaze Credit Union Sped Approvals, Enhanced Engagement, and Delivered a Fully Digital Experience  


Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota 
Branch locations: 28 
Members: 253,000 
Managed assets: $4.42 billion+ 


The Challenge

Fragmented Systems Limited Efficiency and Cross-Channel Growth 

Following a major merger and ongoing expansion, Blaze Credit Union faced the challenge of managing multiple systems for lending, deposits, and online applications. These disconnected platforms created inefficiencies for staff and an inconsistent experience for members, especially those accessing multiple products. Blaze CU needed a unified, flexible digital infrastructure to connect loan origination and account opening and create personalized, seamless experiences that could scale alongside the institution’s growth. 

“MeridianLink continues to be the only platform on the market that does everything. There are no other systems available that offer all consumer lending products, business lending, account opening, cross-sell functionality, and integrated online applications.”  

Nate Criego, Sr Product Manager – Acquisition & Onboarding, Blaze CU 


The Solution

MeridianLink Consumer, MeridianLink Opening, MeridianLink Portal, and MeridianLink Consulting 

Blaze CU implemented MeridianLink® Consumer, MeridianLink® Opening, and MeridianLink® Portal to bring its digital vision to life. Together, these solutions created a seamless, unified ecosystem that connects every step of the lending and account-opening journey. To enhance decisioning and strengthen risk management, the credit union also leveraged MeridianLink Consulting’s Reveal Pro service, tapping into data beyond traditional credit scores to make smarter, more informed lending decisions. 

Why Blaze CU Selected MeridianLink 

Accelerated approvals and streamlined onboarding through integrated member journeys that connect loan origination and account opening. 

Reduced decisioning and closing times with customizable workflows and instant-approval capabilities that boost operational efficiency. 

Enhanced digital experience supported by custom member portals, single sign-on (SSO) integration, and mobile-optimized application flows. 


The Results

Greater Agility, Higher Conversions, and Stronger Member Engagement 

This connected ecosystem enables staff to manage multiple applications from a single workspace, unlocking smarter cross-sell opportunities that deepen relationships and increase loan penetration. Seamless integration between MeridianLink Consumer and MeridianLink Opening creates a frictionless experience for members applying for loans and opening accounts simultaneously, while customized underwriting rules and instant-approval criteria accelerate decisioning to boost efficiency and satisfaction. 

MeridianLink Portal further amplifies digital growth by allowing Blaze CU to build and launch tailored application experiences—including a dedicated portal for University of Minnesota Alumni Association members. These branded, data-driven portals expand the credit union’s reach and elevate personalization throughout the onboarding journey. 

By streamlining workflows and enhancing every member touchpoint, Blaze CU now delivers faster decisions, greater convenience, and a modern experience that reflects its commitment to innovation and exceptional member service. 

Blaze CU Achieved Impressive Results With MeridianLink