CineFi Awarded Best New Product at The Big Bank Theory Awards
Digital credit union CineFi has been named Best New Product at Tearsheet's The Big Bank Theory Awards. The platform is designed for entertainment professionals with irregular income streams.
CineFi, a digital credit union catering to professionals in the television, motion picture, music, gaming, content creation, and influencer sectors, has received the Best New Product award at Tearsheet's The Big Bank Theory Awards. The award recognizes CineFi for establishing a new category of banking, a fully digital credit union built for the entertainment industry.
Launched in 2026 by First Entertainment Credit Union, CineFi is specifically designed to address the financial needs of a workforce that receives income through irregular, project-based payments rather than consistent paychecks. The service offers members high-yield checking and savings accounts, a round-up savings feature, early direct deposit access, ATM fee rebates, and no account fees.
CineFi also provides financial education tailored for freelance careers, aiming to equip entertainment professionals with the necessary tools and resources for financial success. Stephen Owen, President and CEO of First Entertainment Credit Union and CineFi, stated that the credit union understands the unique financial realities faced by industry professionals.
The fully digital credit union allows members nationwide to access their accounts and banking tools remotely. Membership is open to entertainment industry professionals residing or working in specified counties in Georgia and California, as well as those who join through a complimentary membership to the Filmmaker's Alliance. Members have access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs across the country.