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

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