Personal With A Purpose
Founded on the principles of relationship banking, your local banker sees you as more than just an account number—they know your story.
Whether you're purchasing a home, launching a business, or navigating unexpected challenges, community bankers take the time to understand your needs and provide tailored solutions. Choosing to bank locally means experiencing genuine support and reaping meaningful benefits that make a difference over time.
Investing in Local Communities
Unlike big banks, community banks invest your deposits back into the local economy—helping to grow small businesses, create jobs, and support vital community initiatives. Plus, community banks give back in big ways through volunteer services, fundraising, sponsorships and more.
Choosing to bank locally is just like shopping locally: it builds a stronger, more connected community.
Small Businesses Supporting Small Businesses
Community banks are locally owned financial institutions; deeply embedded in the neighborhoods they serve. As small businesses themselves, they understand the unique needs of their communities, offering personalized, relationship-focused banking services and oftentimes being the best fit for small business.
With a commitment to agility and responsiveness, they invest directly in the success of local individuals, businesses, and the overall community.
Facing Challenges
As credit unions expand rapidly by acquiring community banks, questions arise about whether their growing size is creating regulatory blind spots. Concerns are also being raised about whether credit unions are staying true to their mission of serving individuals with limited financial resources.
The IBSC, in partnership with our national affiliate ICBA, has consistently urged policymakers to repeal the tax exemption for credit unions with over $1 billion in assets. These large institutions are leveraging their tax-exempt status to acquire tax-paying community banks, which raises significant policy concerns and undermines the personal-banking experience and push for community reinvestment.
"I appreciate that my community bank knows me and my business. They're always there to help me succeed."
- Local Business Owner, South Carolina