Budget Season 2026: Key Takeaways from Our Customer Panel 

As organizations head into budget planning for 2026, training priorities are shifting in response to new challenges and rising expectations. During our recent customer panel discussion, bank and credit union leaders shared how they’re navigating budget pressures while still investing in their teams. 

Here are a few highlights: 

Leadership & Soft Skills Take Center Stage 

Attendees agreed that leadership development and soft skills are among the top priorities for next year’s training budgets. While these programs may not always deliver the highest immediate revenue, they are essential for long-term organizational health and retention. 

Post-Training Application Matters 

The conversation reinforced that training only delivers ROI when learning is applied and reinforced. Teams are looking for built-in skill testing and follow-up mechanisms to ensure knowledge sticks. 

Scenario-Based Learning Builds Confidence 

From fraud detection to customer interactions, panelists emphasized that interactive, real-world training scenarios empower employees to apply skills with confidence and protect trust. 

AI & Governance Remain Top of Mind 

While AI offers exciting opportunities to streamline workflows and enhance procedures, panelists noted that internal policies and security concerns must be carefully managed, especially in regulated industries. 

Fraud Threats Evolve Quickly 

With fraud tactics growing more sophisticated, training leaders stressed the need for scenario-based fraud training and practice handling tough customer conversations. These skills not only help reduce losses but also build stronger customer relationships. 

👉 Want the full discussion? Access the complete panel recording here to dive deeper into priorities, pressures, and practical strategies shaping budget season 2026.