The Mission Driven Bank Fund (MDBF) recently participated in a webinar hosted by the National Bankers Association, focusing on how strategic capital, technical services, and impact measurement can empower community-focused financial institutions to achieve growth and mission objectives. The event featured insights from MDBF’s Portfolio Manager Paul Welch, Senior Officer of Technical Services and Impact Measurement Mayowa Sanusi, Anchor Bank President and CEO Nelson Hinojosa, and Matt Shields, Head of Financial Institutions Group Markets at Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC.
Nicole Elam, President and CEO of the National Bankers Association, emphasized the importance of the partnership: "The Mission Driven Bank Fund has been a valued partner to the National Bankers Association for the past several years, and we appreciate their continued commitment to our members and the broader mission-driven banking sector. Access to capital is critical to helping these institutions grow and deepen their impact, and we were pleased to create an opportunity for our members to learn more about the Fund and the resources available to support their growth."
During the discussion, MDBF leaders underscored the Fund’s dedication to supporting community-focused financial institutions by providing a blend of flexible capital, technical assistance, and impact measurement. These investments are designed to help banks strengthen their balance sheets, pursue growth opportunities, and expand economic opportunities in underserved communities. The collaboration between capital, technical services, and impact tracking is essential for ensuring that banks not only expand but also remain aligned with their mission of serving low- and moderate-income (LMI) and other underserved populations.
Anchor Bank’s experience served as a compelling example of how strategic capital can advance an institution’s long-term goals. Through two rounds of investment from MDBF, Anchor Bank received capital that bolstered its growth and reinforced its balance sheet. Additionally, the partnership provided technical services and impact measurement resources, which are critical for evaluating and enhancing the bank’s social impact. Hinojosa shared his perspective: "The Mission Driven Bank Fund provides more than capital. It provides strategic partnership, credibility and ongoing support that helps us continue pursuing our mission and growth objectives." Since joining MDBF’s portfolio, Anchor Bank has strengthened its capital position, expanded its footprint, and continued serving its target markets while exploring new regions.
The webinar also included a market update from Performance Trust, which highlighted improving conditions in bank capital markets and the increasing availability of capital solutions for strategic growth and balance sheet management. Shields praised MDBF’s role: "I continue to commend the Mission Driven Bank Fund. There's no one as focused on serving and investing in MDIs and CDFIs across the country as the Mission Driven Bank Fund." Welch expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration: "We appreciate ongoing National Bankers Association support and collaboration to advance the missions of both the banks and our fund."
This discussion underscores the critical role that targeted capital and support services play in strengthening community banks, which are vital to economic development in underserved areas. By combining financial resources with technical expertise and impact measurement, the Mission Driven Bank Fund is helping these institutions not only survive but thrive, ultimately contributing to wealth creation in the communities they serve.
