When Sustainability is the Mission w/ Lex Ford of Climate First Bank

Behind the Vault

Mar 27 2024 • 24 mins

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