LAS VEGAS -- Seeking to build safe loan business among independent auto dealers, Credit Union Direct Lending Corp. said Friday it is ready to roll out its financial package next month under a linkup with a unit of Manheim, the Atlanta vehicle remarketing firm.

The arrangement with Manheim Financial Services designed to increase originations by access to the firm's top tier 11,000 dealers has been in the pilot stage for months in Virginia and North Carolina, with Coastal Federal Credit Union of Raleigh the most notable participant.

Completion of the test phase with Manheim as unveiled last year was announced at CUDL's annual meeting which winds up today at the Venetian Resort/Casino.

Under the "Advantage" program, as it is called, CUDL said CUs would be protected from risks associated with independents because of Manheim's procedures on "dealer screening, ongoing monitoring and funds management."

"The auction and floorplan experience with the independent dealer market allows Manheiam Auto Financial Services to minimize credit unions' exposure to dealer risk," said CUDL.