Sometimes, the name says it all. This week, we speak with Lex Ford, President and Director of Climate First Bank. A Central Florida de novo bank started in 2021, Climate First aims to use banking to reduce atmospheric CO2. But the bank isn't just for those looking to work with like-minded businesses. Lex shares the organization's philosophy and approach to internal alignment and bringing as much of their community along with them.
Highlights from our discussion:
* Climate First's origins and unique structuring as a B Corp
* The bank's approach to branch development and use of LEED certification
* Creating bespoke solutions like loan origination software to speed the financing of solar projects
* Why they cater to traditional fossil fuel customers
* Using their own annual reports as impact statements and an example of accountability and transparency
To learn more, visit https://climatefirstbank.com
The bank's annual impact statement: https://www.climatefirstbank.com/our-impact