The news: When Lakota Federal Credit Union (LFCU) opened in 2012 on South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Reservation, up to 60% of residents were unbanked, per Next City.

The solution: Because of the region’s unique geographic and infrastructural hurdles including remote location, poor cell phone reception and wifi, lack of transit options, and potential mistrust in traditional institutions, determining how to reach the unbanked locals proved both a challenge and a growth opportunity for LFCU.

The credit union introduced a mobile banking bus that visits tribal areas multiple times a month, making banking services more accessible for people without transportation. The bus offers full-service banking, including personal and recreational loans. Usage has grown steadily since its launch, indicating strong community interest.