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Citizens Bank & Trust Brings Banking Back to School
Citizens Bank & Trust saw a need and a demand for financial literacy in local high schools. Now, the community bank has two school branches that are run by student tellers and teacher presidents.
Community Banks' Regulatory Guidance for Third-Party Relationships
Earlier this year, federal bank regulatory agencies released final guidance on third-party risk management for financial institutions. Here’s what community banks need to know.
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Here for Good
The 2024 ICBA LIVE theme is “Here for Good,” and I am struck by how much that message resonates in all we do.
Banking the Nonprofit Way
Helping their communities: It’s the community bank way, but it’s not always done through volunteering. These banks tell us how they support nonprofits in their areas, helping organizations amplify...
Michael Emancipator: ICBA Advocacy Results in Nationwide 1071 Delay
ICBA will continue to work with policymakers to pursue 1071 relief for community banks.
Best Community Banks to Work For 2023
How many other industries can boast that 97% of workers would recommend their employer to potential employees? The winners of the 2023 Best Community Banks To Work For Awards tell us how they keep...
How to Successfully Negotiate a Fintech Partnership
Partnering with one or more fintechs can help community banks keep up with the pace of technological development. Community bankers and other experts give us their tips for finding the right fit.
Using Data to Boost Mortgage Lending
Can community banks reengage existing mortgage customers through data, or find new ones? We spoke to experts on where to find data that could increase sales—and what to do with it.
Out of Office: Robert Fricke
The president of $120 million-asset Farmers and Merchants Bank in Ashland, Neb., has a deep appreciation for boats, particularly older wooden ones from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Charles Potts: The Great Digital Strategy Reset
Digital first. How many times have community banks heard that over the past few years? It’s been repetitive in ongoing banking evolution, and with it comes increasing pressure on the technology stack.
Moultrie Bank & Trust Makes Its Mark
Moultrie Bank & Trust opened in 2022 outside of a large metropolitan area and already has more than 400 investors and $21 million in capital. Here’s how they did it.
Bank of Anguilla Weathers the Storm
In the wake of a destructive tornado in Mississippi, Bank of Anguilla continues to develop initiatives that will help people recover from the damage and return home.
Out of Office: Kenesha Davis
Kenesha Davis, with Lincoln Savings Bank in Reinbeck, Iowa, has turned her hobby of crocheting into a successful side business. She creates handmade crochet goods that allow her to express her...
How to Boost Your Bank's Digital Payment Security
Now more than ever, cybercrime is a top priority for banking leaders. We spoke to experts on how community banks can prevent bad actors from infiltrating their systems.
Tips For Community Bank Mentorship Programs
Mentorship programs benefit both mentors and mentees—and it doesn’t have to be an overly formal undertaking. We give tips for getting started.
Lindsay LaNore: Relishing Anticipation
There’s something about this time of year. The changing of the seasons, the chance to create memories. When it comes to making positive changes, the end of the year approaches, bringing resolutions.
8 Ways Community Banks Can Boost Small Business Lending
Small businesses and community banks are a perfect pairing. Community banks play a key role in giving small businesses needed capital and guidance so they can survive and thrive.
Derek Williams: The Human Side of Banking
When I think about my blessings as a community banker, it comes down to our relationship model. In a society that has become increasingly disconnected, our model puts the human back into banking.
How to Talk to Customers About Crypto
Most of your customers might not be investing in crypto, but their money is at risk if they do. That’s why community banks should stay current on cryptocurrency developments and be prepared to...
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Is Crypto Needed?
“While we have heard a wide range of rationale [for cryptocurrency], those concepts don’t seem founded in need as much as in justification.”
4 Emerging Bank Technologies (That Aren't AI)
With rapid new developments in bank technology, it’s easy to feel stressed about keeping up with them. Read on to learn what’s new and upcoming in tech and how to determine what’s worth exploring.
Ron Haynie: The GSE Conservatorship Should End Now
After 15 years, the federal government should end its conservatorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The conservatorship prevents these enterprises from operating like a privately run entity.
Can Third-Party Vendors Ease Wealth Management?
Community banks with wealth management programs can access a new source of revenue, but starting from scratch can be a major undertaking.
Member Benefits: Breaking Down Best Cybersecurity Practices
Bad actors continually find ways to commit cybercrimes. By using the ICBA Cyber Security Toolkit, community banks can make sure they’re prepared for cyber incidents.
Is Cybersecurity Insurance Worth the Higher Premiums?
Cybersecurity should be a foundational element of any community bank, but do you really need to be insured for it, especially as premiums rise? We spoke to experts to learn more about cyber insurance.
Charles Potts: Put Innovative Thinking to Work in Risk Mitigation
Risk mitigation—supported by innovative thinking—drives reward for our banks, our customers and our communities.
Derek Williams: Strengthening Cybersecurity Together
While cyberattacks are not going away, we’re all in this battle together and can learn from one another.
How Community Banks Can Support Self-Employed and Gig Workers
Gig workers and self-employed individuals make up a growing sector of the workforce in the U.S. This group of workers has specific needs when it comes to banking. Here’s how community banks are...
Risk or Reward: A Community Bank's Guide to AI
What do community banks need to know about getting started with AI, how can it boost efficiency across departments—and how to manage risk? We spoke to experts from ICBA and beyond to learn...
Out of Office: Kris Ausborn
The CEO of $488 million-asset Iowa Trust & Saving Bank in Emmetsburg, Iowa, spends his free time waterskiing. Whether it’s with friends and family or as part of his club, he enjoys every second.
A Happy Halloween from First National Bank & Trust
First National Bank & Trust in Iron Mountain, Mich., sponsors the second annual Downtown Iron Mountain Pumpkin Walk event.
Tech Solutions That Can Help Stop Elder Fraud
Elder financial abuse is a rising crime across the country. Using technology, community bankers can help detect this type of fraud and protect their customers.
Jim Reber: Don't Discount Discounts
Below-market coupons could be your friends in 2024.
Farmers and Merchants' Digital Transformation in Farm Country
Working in an agricultural community, Farmers and Merchants Bank is supporting its farm customers by innovating its products and services.
Lindsay LaNore: How to Dress Up Discussions
Workdays can bring exciting opportunities and challenging headwinds, and the ability to have open dialogue makes it easier to manage both. Communicating effectively within your team can unlock...
An Update on Data Protection Regulations
Last year, the CFPB issued an advisory opinion on privacy protection for personal data compiled from community banks. Here’s what you need to know.
Oxford Bank Presents Cybersecurity Lessons from the FBI
Oxford Bank connected its community with the FBI during an educational, interactive session about the importance of cybersecurity and awareness.
Future-Proof Your Community Bank's Core
It’s a stressful time when your core contract is up for renewal. Is your community bank getting what it needs? Will it still be in five years or more? Take a closer look at those contracts and make...
6 Things Community Banks Need to Know About Cybersecurity Today
From dealing with emerging cyber threats to finding ways to get all your employees to be aware and proactive, we spoke to community bankers and experts about the tools and knowledge that will help...
Out of Office: Rich Moldenhauer
The vice president of operations and information technology at $185 million-asset New Market Bank in Elko New Market, Minn., carries on the beekeeping legacy of his father and grandfather.
Football, Fun and Fundraising at One Community Bank
On October 21, One Community Bank in Waunakee, Wisconsin, will host an outdoor viewing party for the University of Wisconsin-Madison football game. The event is a fundraiser for the Waunakee School...
How Community Banks Can Cut Down Data Privacy Threats
Education on how to keep data safe is important for both community bank employees and their customers. Community bankers and data privacy experts share their tips to help keep data safe
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Combatting Cyber Threats
We need to continue our training … to identify threats and prepare ourselves, our staff and our customers for what’s possible and what’s potentially next.
Customer Retention Strategies for Community Banks
Looking to improve customer retention? Here’s how community banks strengthen loyalty through appreciation events, feedback programs and community engagement strategies.
Ransomware Prevention Strategies for Community Banks
Ransomware attacks are evolving. Learn how community banks can prevent successful ransomware attacks through AI-driven detection, employee training, vendor oversight and strong cybersecurity...
Teen Debit Cards: Financial Literacy for the Next Generation
Teen debit cards help community banks teach financial literacy while building long-term customer relationships. Explore features, safeguards and youth banking strategies that drive generational...
5 Essential Treasury Management Services for Community Banks
Discover five essential treasury management services community banks should offer to improve business cash flow, prevent fraud and strengthen commercial banking relationships.
ICBA Capital Summit 2026: Key Policy Priorities
Community bankers head to Washington for the ICBA Capital Summit 2026 to advocate for regulatory relief, ag lending support, deposit insurance reform and key community banking policies.
Single-Location Community Banks That Thrive
Can community banks succeed with just one location? Four single-branch community banks share how staying small lowers overhead, strengthens customer relationships and supports long-term growth.
Community Bank Marketing Strategies for Growth
Learn the latest marketing strategies for community banks, including video, contests, AI, and social media to engage local audiences.
Incoming ICBA Chairman Alice Frazier on Leadership
Meet Alice Frazier, president and CEO of Potomac Bank and incoming ICBA chairman. Learn how her leadership journey, advocacy work and focus on developing the next generation of community bankers...
Check Fraud Is Rising—and Technology Debt Is Making It Worse for Community Banks
Check Fraud Is Rising—and Technology Debt Is Making It Worse for Community Banks SPONSORED | Check fraud isn’t just a crime problem—it’s a technology problem. Aging deposit systems can fuel risk,...
How Instant Payments Can Accelerate B2B Payments Modernization
How Instant Payments Can Accelerate B2B Payments Modernization SPONSORED | Community banks have the opportunity to provide new payment offerings, including instant payments, to help businesses move...
2026 Banking Trust & Technology Outlook: What Community Bank Leaders Need to Know
2026 Banking Trust & Technology Outlook: What Community Bank Leaders Need to Know SPONSORED | Rising cyber risks, AI anxiety, and unclear IT spending is challenging community bank leaders to...
Future of Community Banking: Mentoring the Next Generation
Discover how ICBA and industry leaders are mentoring the next generation of community bankers through targeted succession planning and professional development.
Community Bank Innovation: Navigating Core Providers
Discover how community bank innovation thrives through core provider integrations, API access, and regulatory compliance support from the ICBA in 2026.
Ballston Spa National Bank Hits a Hole-in-One for the Community
Ballston Spa National Bank (BSNB) in Ballston Spa, New York, brought creativity, connection and community spirit to the Saratoga County Annual Business Showcase last fall, transforming a...
How to Build a Layered Fraud Defense for Community Banks
Discover how community banks can fight fraud using a 4-layered defense strategy involving internal controls, governance, staff training, and AI technologies.
Payments Policy for Community Banks: Digital Asset Rules
Learn how community banks can navigate the new era of payments policy, digital asset regulations, and advocacy efforts with ICBA Payments CEO Jacob Eisen.