Pub. 1 2020 Issue 2

www.cbak.com 8 In Touch A s community bankers, we strive for excellence. We are always looking for ways to build upon the strong foundation we’ve set, whether through the products we offer our customers, the services we bring to the community or the environment we create for our employees. In short, community banks work hard to ensure that every day is just a little bit better than the last. And hard work it is. As the saying goes, “Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort and intelligent execution.” Those words ring true as we look at the factors that contribute to community bank success, and they resonate at ICBA, where we are committed to excellence in the products, services and offerings we bring to our members. Our ThinkTECH Accelerator is a testament to that point. I was fortunate to attend this year’s accelerator launch in Little Rock, Ark., just a few weeks ago, and I was astounded by the knowledge and passion of this year’s finalists. We have assembled a new cohort to address specific, tangible community bank needs in the marketplace. With a laser focus on community banks, the solutions these fintechs debuted aim to help us better reach target audiences, enhance internal procedures and create external efficiencies. The accelerator sheds light on some incredible fintech partnership opportunities, and I hope you’ll pencil in the ThinkTECH Showcase at ICBA LIVE 2020 so you can hear firsthand how their products can support your quest for excellence. Beyond the showcase, next month’s ICBA LIVE has so much to offer community bankers as we come together to explore today’s emerging opportunities and tackle developing challenges. We will spark fresh momentum around key initiatives—such as advocating for a level playing field and expanding our technology offerings—as we assemble as a community. Our efforts at convention will outline tangible ways community bankers can become involved in key ICBA initiatives to expand our impact. Through our shared work, we will amplify community bank voices throughout the financial services industry, inside the Beltway and within your communities. I can’t wait to unveil all we have in store in 2020. So, as you browse this month’s Independent Banker, I hope you’ll take note of new strategies for payments, opportunities for engaging fintechs, possibilities around digital lending and developments in compliance. These topics set the stage for ICBA LIVE and for the continued pursuit of excellence now and throughout 2020.  Connect with Rebeca @ romerorainey FLOURISH BY REBECCA ROMERO “Community banks work hard to ensure that every day is just a little bit better than the last.”