Where social good meets your bottom line

Madison, Wis. – Dec. 30, 2008 – Making an investment in our communities has never been more important. In Wisconsin, a progressive partnership sends investor dollars directly into the nonprofits working to build our communities and meet growing demands in these challenging economic times.

Wisconsin banks and Forward Community Investments (FCI), a statewide community development loan fund, have worked together since 1994 to infuse needed capital for economic development, affordable housing and social services. It’s a financially responsible collaboration that allows investors to grow their bottom line while maximizing their community impact.

Here’s how it works. FCI converts investments into low-interest loans for nonprofits working on the frontlines of towns and communities throughout Wisconsin. Investments become part of a unique funding cycle that continually recycles loans to help nonprofit organizations provide their services.

“A single investment with Forward Community Investments has the potential to grow exponentially,” said Salli Martyniak, FCI president. “It allows investors to make a lasting influence on our state while making competitive returns.”

Wisconsin banks are taking notice. In 2008, M&I Bank invested $250,000, First Business Bank invested $100,000, and Sun Prairie Bank invested $50,000. These institutions and over 20 others invest in FCI to strengthen Wisconsin communities.

Home Savings Bank was one of FCI’s first investors and President Jim Bradley was recently awarded the 2008 Forward Community Investments Community Builder Award for his ongoing commitment to strengthening nonprofits.

“Forward Community Investments is in many respects bringing the disciplines of banking to community investment,” said Bradley. “[It] really provides that initial capital that makes others feel comfortable investing in meaningful and worthwhile projects.”

An investment with FCI spurs community growth and transformation across Wisconsin. Past loans have helped fund vital projects, ranging from redevelopment of a co-location hub for nonprofits in Dodgeville to improvements for a health clinic in Milwaukee to preservation and restoration of affordable housing in Wyocena.

Financial institutions seeking to support nonprofit financing and strengthen Wisconsin communities are encouraged to contact Salli Martyniak at (866) 687-1468. Banks can also get CRA credit for their investments.

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Salli Martyniak
FCI President