The Mission Driven Bank Fund (MDBF) recently participated in a National Bankers Association webinar to discuss how strategic capital, technical services, and impact measurement can help community-focused financial institutions achieve their growth and mission objectives. The session featured insights from MDBF's Portfolio Manager Paul Welch, Senior Officer Mayowa Sanusi, Anchor Bank President and CEO Nelson Hinojosa, and Matt Shields of Performance Trust Capital Partners.
Nicole Elam, President and CEO of the National Bankers Association, emphasized the importance of access to capital for these institutions. "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," she said. "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 dual approach of providing flexible capital alongside technical services and impact measurement. These investments are designed to help institutions strengthen their balance sheets, pursue growth opportunities, and expand economic opportunities in the communities they serve. The combination of financial and non-financial support is intended to foster long-term resilience and mission alignment.
Anchor Bank's experience served as a case study. Through two rounds of MDBF investment, the bank received capital that supported its growth and strengthened its balance sheet. The partnership also includes technical services and impact measurement resources. Hinojosa provided a firsthand 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 the 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 noted improving conditions in bank capital markets and increasing availability of capital solutions for strategic growth and balance sheet management. Matt Shields praised MDBF's commitment: "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."
Paul Welch expressed appreciation for the ongoing collaboration: "We appreciate ongoing National Bankers Association support and collaboration to advance the missions of both the banks and our fund." The event underscores the importance of partnerships between mission-driven investors and community banks, particularly in underserved areas. For more information about the Mission Driven Bank Fund, visit missiondrivenbankfund.org.
