This past weekend, Actors Federal Credit Union had the distinct pleasure of attending the highly anticipated Actor Empowerment Summit (AES) at CineCity Studios in Chicago, held September 19 and 20, 2026. As proud sponsors of the 3rd Actor Empowerment Summit, we were thrilled to support an event that brings together some of the most talented and passionate creative professionals in our industry.

The event provided a powerful platform for networking, inspiration, and reaffirming our shared mission to serve and support creative professionals. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with industry peers, share our commitment to promoting artistic growth, and demonstrate that Actors FCU is more than just a financial institution. We are a dedicated partner in our members’ journeys.

One of the highlights of the event was seeing the Midwest Film Festival represented and reminding us that the Midwest is a vibrant hub of talent, passion, and storytelling. The Midwest Film Festival plays a vital role in creating opportunities for Midwestern filmmakers, actors, and storytellers to showcase their work and share their unique stories. Their presence at the summit reaffirmed our belief in the importance of supporting local talent and fostering a thriving creative community right here in the heartland.

For Actors FCU, the AES represents more than a sponsorship. It embodies our core values as a financial institution dedicated to serving the unique needs of creative professionals. We understand the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a career in the arts, and we are committed to being a source of strength and guidance throughout the journey.

From breakout sessions and workshops to keynote addresses and panels, the summit offered a wealth of insights and advice from industry experts and thought leaders. Our team was deeply inspired by the resilience, dedication, and passion of the actors, writers, directors, and producers who shared their stories with attendees.

We were also proud to see the impact of our community outreach efforts, which aim to provide financial education and resources to the creative professionals in attendance. Our goal is to empower our members with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed both in their careers and in their personal lives.

Looking back at the summit, we are filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. We are thankful for the opportunity to support an event that celebrates the power of creativity, storytelling, and community. We believe that supporting local talent and fostering opportunities for Midwestern artists is essential to building a vibrant, diverse, and innovative industry.

At Actors FCU, we are committed to being a trusted partner and advocate for our members. We believe that every creative professional deserves access to the financial resources, education, and support necessary to turn their dreams into reality.