Our Story
98 Years of Fighting for Community Empowerment
Founded in 1927
The National Bankers Association (NBA) champions minority depository institutions, advocating for mission-driven banks that serve underserved and low- to-moderate-income communities. Representing community banks across 43 states and territories, NBA promotes economic empowerment, capital access and financial inclusion.
MDIs support their communities with loans, mortgages, and hope.
Over a third (37%) of mortgage loans from MDIs go to minority borrowers, compared to only 13% from non-MDIs.
"No bank can stand alone."
– Major Richard Robert Wright, Co-founder National Bankers Association
That’s why we provide advocacy, partnerships, and collaboration opportunities on behalf of our member banks so that together they are stronger and have a greater voice in national conversations about financial justice. Because when MDIs thrive, communities thrive.
MDIs
+
You
=
Stronger
Together
$1
invested in
minority banks
~$10
=
to lend to
minority communities
MDIs originate a higher share of their small business loans to
LMI communities (30%)
relative to community banks (20%) and larger banks (24%).
Here's how the National Bankers Association creates lasting change:
Policy
No other trade association is focused solely on the policy priorities and needs of minority owned and operated banks.
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Programs
Education, events, products, and services to accelerate your growth.
Profile
Build your bank's brand equity, convey your impact, and engage in the National Bankers Association marketing and communication opportunities.
Partnerships
Develop strategic alliances and connect with corporations, fintechs, nonprofits, and policymakers.
Profit
Aggregate capital, invest at scale, increase profits, and decrease operational costs.
