New Haven Bank, formerly Start Community Bank, is committed to investing capital locally and serving as a catalyst for economic and social improvement in New Haven. As a community development bank - and the only locally-owned bank in New Haven, Connecticut - we strive to empower the potential of our city's residents and businesses by actively guiding positive change.
Our parent company, First City Fund Corporation (FCFC), was first founded in 2004. Since our earliest beginnings, we have operated with the intention of serving the unique financial needs of families and businesses in New Haven. As a financial partner, we are an advocate for the financial success of our neighbors. As an active participant in the community, we are invested in its forward advancement.
In the fall of 2012, we received our certification as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). This designation is only given to specialized community-based financial institutions with a mission to promote economic development by providing financial products and services to people and communities underserved by traditional financial institutions, particularly in low income communities. There are only 165 CDFI certified banks in the country, and we are the only bank so designated in Connecticut.
Annually since 2012, New Haven Bank has been a recipient of awards and grants from the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI). This distinction acknowledges our support of affordable housing development by providing affordable housing loans and project investments, small business loans and project investments, and commercial real estate loans and project investments in distressed communities in New Haven.
As we look toward the future, our commitment to New Haven stands true. We will continue to guide success with responsive relationships and practical financial solutions that focus on the strength of our community.