In a webinar hosted by the National Bankers Association, the Mission Driven Bank Fund (MDBF) outlined how its combination of strategic capital, technical services, and impact measurement can help community-focused financial institutions achieve growth and mission objectives. The event, which took place recently, featured MDBF Portfolio Manager Paul Welch, Senior Officer Mayowa Sanusi, Anchor Bank President and CEO Nelson Hinojosa, and Matt Shields of 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 highlighted the Fund's commitment to supporting community-focused financial institutions through flexible capital, technical services, and impact measurement. These investments are designed to help institutions strengthen their balance sheets, pursue growth opportunities, and expand economic opportunities in underserved communities.
Anchor Bank's experience served as a case study. Through two rounds of investment, MDBF provided capital that supported the bank's growth and strengthened its balance sheet. The partnership also included technical services and impact measurement resources. Hinojosa noted, "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 pursuing growth in new regions.
The webinar also included a market update from Performance Trust, which highlighted improving conditions across bank capital markets and the growing availability of capital solutions for strategic growth and balance sheet management. Shields praised MDBF, saying, "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 partnership underscores the critical role that strategic capital and technical expertise play in helping mission-driven banks thrive. By providing tailored resources, MDBF aims to foster a stronger, more accessible banking system that benefits low- and moderate-income communities. The discussion highlighted how such collaboration can drive growth and financial resiliency, ultimately translating into wealth creation in the communities these banks serve.
For more information about the Mission Driven Bank Fund, visit www.missiondrivenbankfund.org.
