There are challenges for a credit union covering the vastness of Alaska. The designation gives Element Credit Union the flexibility to offer small-dollar loans and lines of credit for local businesses and nonprofits, explained the CEO, Linda Bodie. Digital tools, like this Interactive Teller Machine, are part of the solution for financially underserved rural communities. While CU1 implemented the technology to better meet the needs of rural members, they are now using it in urban branches as well. Credit Union 1, Element Credit Union, and their peers are using that flexibility to seek better solutions for rural residents.