Harborstone Credit Union, a Washington-based member-owned cooperative, has collaborated with Upstart, an artificial intelligence (AI) lending marketplace, to enhance its personal lending portfolio and facilitate member growth.
Robert Luettjohann, Chief Lending Officer at Harborstone Credit Union, stated, “Harborstone has a long history of improving the financial wellness of our members while embracing innovation to expand access to affordable credit.” He added that the partnership with Upstart enables the credit union to invest in high-quality personal loans and provide a modern, digital borrowing experience to more members across Washington.
Harborstone began its lending activities as a partner on the Upstart Referral Network in February 2026. This network allows qualified personal loan applicants on Upstart.com who meet Harborstone’s credit policies to receive tailored offers. These applicants then transition to a Harborstone-branded experience to complete their online member application and closing process.
In 2025, Harborstone also invested in whole personal loans originated through Upstart’s AI-powered marketplace. By integrating loan purchases with direct originations via the Upstart Referral Network, Harborstone is aligning its capital deployment strategy with a contemporary, fully digital personal lending offering.
Ed Walters, Vice President of Lending Partnerships at Upstart, commented, “We’re excited to welcome Harborstone Credit Union to the family of Upstart lending partners.” He noted that Harborstone’s investment and launch of personal lending through Upstart reflects a forward-looking growth strategy that combines balance sheet strength with a modern, AI-powered digital experience for borrowers.
Upstart, headquartered in San Mateo, California, operates as an AI lending marketplace that connects millions of consumers with over 100 banks and credit unions. These financial institutions utilize Upstart’s AI models and cloud applications to offer credit products, enabling them to approve more borrowers at potentially lower rates while delivering a digital-first customer experience. More than 90% of loans on the platform are fully automated. Established in 2012, Upstart’s platform supports personal loans, automotive retail and refinance loans, home equity lines of credit, and a forthcoming Cash Line product.
Harborstone Credit Union, a Washington-chartered and federally insured credit union, is headquartered in Lakewood, Washington. Founded in 1955 as McChord Federal Credit Union, it has expanded to serve over 120,000 members with approximately $3.3 billion in total assets, making it one of the largest credit unions in Washington State. Harborstone operates branches across Island, King, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Thurston, and Whatcom counties, providing a range of financial products and services.
