Our History

New Challenges, Stronger Than Ever

2020s

In the face of adversity, BayPort stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic, donating $150,000 to support local organizations. The formation of the BayPort Foundation 501(c)(3) launched the $500,000 Accelerating Change Together Grant, propelling transformative educational programs in local school districts. For the fifth straight year, in 2025, BayPort won all four award categories in the Social Responsibility Awards sponsored by the Virginia Credit Union League. With an impressive 29 branch locations in the Greater Hampton Roads, BayPort expands across the Southside communities.

90 Years Later, Lots of Growth!

2010s

As a force of nature, BayPort merged with multiple credit unions, including Smithfield Packing, Hampton Roads Postal, Chesapeake City Employees, and Hampton City Employees Credit Union, expanding its reach and community impact. The Student-Run Credit Union program was launched in 2014, and we celebrated 90 years of growth in 2018, exceeding $1.5 billion in assets. James B. Mears was named Chief Executive Officer, the fifth CEO in BayPort’s 91-year history.

A New Era in Tech, New Century, New Name

1990s and 2000s

The digital revolution was embraced as bayportcu.org went online in 1996. The 1998 Credit Union Membership Act was a masterstroke, making millions of Americans eligible to participate in credit unions, culminating in a jubilant 75th anniversary with over 75,000 members. By 2007, the name change to BayPort Credit Union was more than just a rebranding; it boasted 20 locations and $1 billion in assets.

Booming, Groovin’, and Expanding!

1960s, 70s, and 80s

The golden years were here! With the launch of its scholarship program in 1961, BayPort took people helping people to the next level. Its first branch opened in Newport News, followed by a celebration of 50 years and $50 million in assets, boasting 25,000 members. By the close of the 80s, BayPort had quadrupled its branches and introduced cutting-edge ATM services, making banking easier and more accessible for its members.

Grow, Grow, Grow

1930s, 40s, and 50s

BayPort welcomed thousands of eager members as it joined the Virginia Credit Union League. Assets soar from $250,000 in 1940 to a $3 million by the end of the 1950s. This period saw new introductions like payroll deduction, loan protection, and life savings insurance, showcasing BayPort’s commitment to empowering its members.

BayPort is Born

1928

In the face of the Great Depression, twelve shipyard workers pooled their money to form a credit union to help those in need. Proudly initiated as the Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company Employees’ Credit Union, BayPort began operations.