Staying True to Rural America

Many community banks have been serving farmers for more than a century. That is because we understand the essential role the agricultural community serves in supporting our nation’s food supply and bolstering our economy.

In fact, 7 percent of the nation’s economy and 29 percent of American jobs are linked to the food and agriculture sectors, either directly or indirectly. Amidst the global supply chain and rising inflation concerns, these sectors also exported $182.91 billion worth of goods, helping the U.S. maintain its position as a leading player in global agriculture.

That’s why the support community banks offer America’s farmers and ranchers is so important. 

Accounting for more than 60 percent of small-business loans under $1 million and 80 percent of agricultural loans from the banking sector, community banks are often the catalysts for new and expanded business opportunities within their communities to ensure their long-term economic viability and vitality. In fact, community banks provide approximately $155 billion in agriculture loans. 

The largest financial institutions themselves have reported that community banks are more than tripling the deposit growth of their larger competitors in rural communities. 

We are proud to be community bankers and of the work Points West Community Bank has done in service to the agricultural community for the past 117 years.

“We are happy to honor the many farmers and ranchers in our communities through National Ag Day!” Our CEO, Mark Brase, said. “This is a great day to remember our heritage and celebrate Ag production across America. Our valuable farmers and ranchers feed the world and help provide our Independence. Please thank a farmer and rancher this week for all their tireless efforts.”

We look forward to continuing that relationship—in the good times when the bounty is plentiful and in the lean years where access to credit offers support to press forward.