Our Future Together
East Coast Credit Union, Acadian Credit Union, iNova Credit Union and Teachers Plus Credit Union are exploring a merger of their four credit unions.
This merger exploration is focused on creating a strong province-wide credit union that offers enhanced growth, innovation, and sustainability. It will also strengthen our ability to evolve and respond so we can best meet the changing needs of our members and communities.
As part of the exploration, we are now creating a business case to understand the benefits of a merger and what we can achieve for our employees, members, and communities.
Following their review of the business case, if the Board of Directors choose to recommend the merger, a member vote will take place in the fall of 2026.
Statistics of a Merged Credit Union
Members
Assets
Employees
Locations
Expected Benefits
For Members
Members will continue to benefit from the personalized service from staff they know
Access services from a network of 24 locations, including a virtual branch, in communities across Nova Scotia
Building from the services available from Acadian’s Chéticamp branch, we will expand the delivery of French services, so they are available from our website, online banking, mobile app and through our virtual branch
Combining operations enables savings that can be reinvested to enhance member services – including new products and digital banking solutions to bring more choice and convenience to all members
For Employees
A stronger, growing organization supports us in retaining and attracting the talent needed to support our members and business goals
A larger employee group means additional support is available to enhance service delivery and employee development
For Community
Local decision-making in the best interests of our collective membership and the communities we serve
Strengthened community support and engagement with opportunities to build partnerships that create meaningful impacts across Nova Scotia
Locations for our Combined Member Network
- Antigonish
- Baddeck
- Bridgewater
- Dartmouth
- Elmsdale
- Fall River
- Halifax (Downtown)
- Havre Boucher
- Inverness
- Louisdale
- Lower Sackville
- L’Ardoise
- Mabou
- New Glasgow
- Port Hawkesbury
- Port Hood
- Sheet Harbour
- St. Andrews
- St. Peter’s
- West Bedford
- Acadian (Chéticamp)
- iNova (Halifax)
- Teachers Plus (Bedford)
- Virtual Branch
Important Dates
2026
The Boards of Directors from the credit unions agree to explore a potential merger.
June 2026
Business Case Approval
Fall 2026
Member Information and Voting
2027
Legal date for merger
Connect with us
During this exploration stage, what you have to say matters to us. Your participation, input and perspectives are important. Simply click on your credit union’s name below and send us a brief message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are we exploring a potential merger?
Our credit unions continuously look for ways to increase the value we provide to members, employees, and local communities. This partnership will allow us to invest more resources in digital services, provide ongoing training and career development for our employees, and increase our investment in the communities we serve. The Boards believe there could be significant value gained from a potential merger. Creating a business case to explore the opportunity is the next step.
When will a decision about a merger be made by the Boards?
A decision will be made after the business case is completed which we expect to happen by the end of June 2026. If the boards approve the business case, the credit unions will seek approval from the membership and the regulator.
If we are to merge, when would it take place?
The potential merger date could be January 2027.
If we merge, what will be the name of the credit union?
The name of the credit union will be East Coast Credit Union. Acadian, iNova and Teachers Plus branches will become part of the East Coast network.
Is our credit union in financial trouble?
All the partner credit unions are financially strong. This merger demonstrates the shared goal of looking for opportunities to increase the value we provide to members, employees, and local communities. By combining our strengths, we’ll be better equipped to invest in technology, enhance our product offerings, increase career opportunities for employees, and deliver long-term value – ensuring our credit union is a competitive banking choice to serve members and communities across Nova Scotia.
Why do we need to be bigger, we’re not a bank?
By coming together, we can scale and be better prepared for the future, while at the same time maintain the benefits and advantages of a community focused credit union for years to come.
How are members affected by the merger?
We see only positive benefits for members. Working in partnership, we will be able to provide better service with an expanded product portfolio, digital services, enhanced member support, and more competitive rates and fees.
Are there risks or challenges with the proposed merger?
There are potential risks to the merger that could temporarily impact members. These include operational impacts, technology and systems challenges as we work to bring our credit unions together. These risks will be considered and documented in the merger business case.
How will employees be affected?
We are committed to maintaining current levels of employment. There will be no job losses because of the merger. Employees will have more opportunities and support to grow their careers in the credit union without the need to relocate.