When it comes to raising community awareness about a special interest, a local charity or a health concern, don’t overlook your community bank. That’s right; community banks are in the business of doing business in the community – FOR the community.
In fact, according to Robert Sumner, CEO of First National Bank of Pasco (FNB Pasco) near Tampa, Florida, “Banking is a people business. Believe it or not, bankers get into the business to help people, as well as to make money.”
Banks make great partners for a variety of reasons:
1.) Marketing without marketing: For one, they are often looking for ways to make their presence known in the community. Many small, local or community branches prefer to limit their marketing budgets to devote to direct customer concerns such as insurance, safety or program offerings, so sponsoring a local or charitable event gives them high visibility for low cost.
2.) At home in the crowd: Also, community banks want to work within their community to spread the word about their various services. Such banks thrive on close, personal relationships versus bulk deposits or banking programs, so community, school and charitable events just make good sense for banks. Here they can rub shoulders with potential customers in a non-threatening way and, frankly, let people know how they can help.
3.) A mutual relationship: Finally, banks lend credibility to your event while your event lends credibility to their bank. Seeing a bank logo on your giveaway tote bags, ball caps, stress release balls or pennants gives people the feeling that your organization is not only well-respected but well-backed. Likewise, community banks in particular thrive on being a part of the community they serve. Sponsoring your event isn’t just a wise business decision for them; it just plain makes for good neighbors!
Now more than ever, banks are eager to help polish up their image in the community, in local business and in the local press. When it’s time for your next fundraiser, business or school partnership, head to your community bank first to utilize this vital community and business member.
In order to take advantage of your local community bank’s community interest, consider reaching out to their PR person before planning your next event. You never know when a single well-placed call could just result in your top-place corporate sponsor!
