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How community banks are reaching the unbanked
Millions of Americans don’t have bank accounts. Their reasons are their own; some lack financial literacy, and others’ trust in the banking system has been eroded. But many community banks are...
2020’s National Community Bank Service Award winner? You
ICBA’s National Community Bank Service Awards celebrates the community banks that have stepped up for their communities. Instead of highlighting a few winners, this year we are honoring all...
Why succession planning is key to bank independence
Independence is at the heart of many community banks’ ethos, but how do community bankers embed this core value into their strategic planning? Here are three critical strategies that use succession...
40 Under 40: 2020’s Emerging Community Bank Leaders
Our second annual 40 Under 40: Emerging Community Bank Leaders competition uncovered some amazing talent. Meet our 2020 winners and hear their thoughts on the industry’s future.
ICBA’s best-performing community banks
Our annual list of the year’s top-performing community banks boasts institutions that focus on efficiency and the personal service that builds strong, lasting relationships. Their success last year...
Why these banks are supporting women entrepreneurs
In the past 50 years, women have gone from a small part of the business community to a significant—and fast-growing—segment. How can community banks form mutually beneficial relationships with this...
The juicy story behind First Citrus Bank
Established 21 years ago, First Citrus Bank’s strategic planning is now bearing fruit. At the core of the Tampa, Fla., community bank is a set of fundamental values that define how its associates...
Meet the winners of ICBA’s 2019 National Community Bank Service Awards
Whether they’re helping their community recover from devastating forest fires, or investing in first responders, ICBA’s 2019 National Community Bank Service Award winners are rolling up their...
How to build the board your bank needs
Board succession planning is important for all banks, but getting the right board members is crucial—and complicated—for larger banks. Here’s how several community banks approached the tall task of...
40 Under 40: 2019’s Emerging Community Bank Leaders
Independent Banker asked community bankers to nominate emerging leaders under the age of 40 in 2019. Here are short profiles of 40 young innovators who are making waves in the industry but still...
Why banks are becoming B Corps
With a commitment to better business practices, B Corps, designated by the non-profit B Lab, are a growing force that count many financial institutions and household brands as members. Could being...
Community Bank CFO Outlook 2019: What are your peers forecasting?
Independent Banker’s Community Bank CFO Outlook survey asked community bank C how they plan to tackle financial challenges, from complying with high-profile accounting standards to utilizing...
Community Spirit: Dennis Frandsen
After a lengthy entrepreneurial career, Dennis Frandsen of Frandsen Bank & Trust is giving back by helping Minnesota students pay their tuition.
Community Bank CEO Outlook 2019: What’s on your peers’ to-do list?
Independent Banker’s inaugural Community Bank CEO Outlook survey asked community bank CEOs how they plan to meet their challenges this year. Read on for a glimpse of their to-do lists for 2019,...
Meet the winners of ICBA’s 2018 National Community Bank Service Awards
Whether they are overhauling local education, main streets or even their own reputation, ICBA’s 2018 National Community Service Award winners were unafraid to dig deep—figuratively and sometimes...
Inside the new style of leadership
Successful community bank leaders inspire from the top while putting the team first. Here’s how.
2017 ICBA National Community Bank Service Award Honorees
In extraordinary circumstances, this year’s National Community Bank Service Award honorees have gone the extra mile for their communities.
How to boost creativity at your bank
Large corporations that lack the agility of startups often turn to “intrapreneurship” to make time and space for creative development in the workplace. Should community banks be doing the same?
What happens when a bank hits $10 billion?
How—and when—should you prepare for the regulatory and cultural aftershocks? And can smaller but ambitious community banks learn from these best-practice preparations?
Wes Beedon's Love of Classic Rock
A Minnesota community banker tells us why he finds joy in performing live music.
Citizens Trust Bank Honored for its Historical Significance
Learn why an Atlanta community bank was recognized by the Georgia Historical Society for its community impact over the past century.
A Look at ICBA's Community Banker-Led Committees
How member-driven ICBA committees and councils power advocacy, innovation and education for community banks.
Skyline National Bank Celebrates Local Music
See how Skyline National Bank’s Sounds of Skyline music competition strengthened community connection, improved brand visibility, and drove website visits through an innovative local marketing...
Leading a Community Bank Through a CEO Transition
CEO transitions are critical moments for community banks. Hear from new bank leaders on how listening, mentorship and steady communication help build trust and maintain stability during leadership...
Preparing New Directors for Community Bank Boards
Serving on a community bank board carries serious responsibility. This guide explains how a structured onboarding process helps new directors understand banking fundamentals, governance...
West Shore Bank and Timberland Bank Offer Unique Avenues for Charitable Giving
West Shore Bank and Timberland Bank are fostering generosity by giving their customers unique avenues to support local charities.
Powering Potential: Unlock Your Leadership Potential With ICBA Resources
ICBA offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge to thrive in our industry.
Out of Office: Evelyn Franco
The chief operating officer at $970 million-asset Frontier Bank of Texas in Elgin, Texas, is determined to hike and canyoneer through all 63 U.S. national parks alongside her sister.
First American Bank Draws a Chalk Path of Kindness
First American Bank in Artesia, New Mexico, embraced the spirit of Random Acts of Kindness Month in February.
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Conversations Must Determine Our Innovation Budgets
Innovation is one of those line items that can be hard to wrap our heads around.
Member Milestones 2025: Community Banks Are Here to Stay
Community banking requires vigor, skill and passion to withstand the test of time. That’s why ICBA is honoring member banks celebrating 100, 125, 150, 175 and even 200 years in service.
KS Bank Helps Make Retirement Plans Happen
KS Bank’s wealth division provides retirement benefits planning services to its business clients to help them save money and attract and retain employees.
Jack E. Hopkins: Turning Vendors Into Partners With ICBA
When faced with a crisis, community banks step up.
Jacob Eisen: Make Payments a Strategic Budget Priority
Payments have transformed into a strategic opportunity. They no longer simply perform a routine function. Instead, they offer revenue potential, enhanced customer experiences and more.
Jack E. Hopkins: Riding the Pendulum of Regulatory Compliance
Over the past decade, community banks have experienced our fair share of pendulum swings when it comes to regulation.
Out of Office: Skyler Kanipe
The project manager at $1.4 billion-asset Community Financial Services Bank (CFSB) in Benton, Kentucky, is always on the lookout for her next vintage find.
CedarStone Bank Recognizes and Thanks Local Teachers
Through its annual Teacher of the Year program, CedarStone Bank recognizes the dedication of Wilson County educators who inspire students and make a difference in their schooling every day.
What Benefits Does Gen Z Value Most?
Gen Z and community banks are both purpose-driven, so attracting the youngest employees largely depends on which benefits companies offer. Here’s how some community banks are doing it.
Rebeca Romero Rainey: Making a Difference, One Act at a Time
Community bankers are driven by a spirit of service. Giving back to our communities is simply a part of who we are.
Building Bright Futures with Financial Education
High school financial literacy courses are an opportunity for community banks to set local youth up for success. See how some community banks are making a difference in financial education today.