How did it take me 4 years to finally become a Climate First Bank client?

How did it take me 4 years to finally become a Climate First Bank client? Well I’m finally here. The climate-focused bank has been on my radar since I heard Chris Castro speak at the UNC CleanTech Summit in Spring 2023, but parenting, work, and life got in the way.

Here is why I joined:

My Deposits Fund Climate Impact Loans: In 2024 alone, Climate First Bank invested over $210 million of customer deposits into loans for mission-driven projects and companies. Part of the Business Climate Finance Working Group, the bank has helped 45 Benefit “B” Corporations align their finances with climate action. In partnership with the Montgomery County Green Bank they launched a subsidized solar lending program for residents in Montgomery County, MD focusing on low-to-moderate income communities. In just 4 years, the bank has financed over 112 MW of solar energy systems and brought renewable energy to over 3,300 households. Their internal operations have been net-zero since inception. Through We Are Neutral, in 2024 the bank has offset 240tCO2e emissions, equating to 3,963 tree saplings grown for 10 years, 55.90 vehicles taken off the road for one year, and 49.90 homes’ electricity use for one year.

Diverse Clients and Team: 63% of staff Identify as women, and 25% identify with an underrepresented population. The bank also offers Pride Banking, supporting nonprofits and providing inclusive financial services to the LGBTQ+ community.

High Yield Banking Services: The bank offers several checking, savings, money market and CD savings products with current APY’s above a 4% annualized interest rate. With these client deposits, the bank offers subsidized solar lending and sustainable business consulting.

Industry-leading mission-aligned partners include 1% for the Planet, B Lab, Global Alliance for Banking on Values, U.S. Green Building Council, We Are Neutral, Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), Race To Net Zero, Montgomery County Green Bank

All of the above are sourced from the 2024 Impact Report, more details here

NOTE: I do not get any payment or bonus for referrals, but I share this as a resource to help each of us and our community take more climate action with our money.