Representation in Banking: Why It Matters to All of Us
Have you ever walked into a room and realized that you were the only one who looked like you, spoke like you, or thought like you? For many of us in central and southern Minnesota, there’s usually something in common that we share with others in a given space—whether it's a shared experience, a familiar accent, or similar values. However, if you’ve ever traveled outside your home country, especially to a place where you didn’t speak the language or understand the culture, you may recall that uncomfortable feeling of not quite fitting in or understanding what was going on around you.
Now, think about this: Talk to any woman—regardless of her race, ethnicity, or country of origin—and she can probably recall at least one instance where she felt ignored, dismissed, or sidelined, especially when she was the only woman in the room. Women often face this uncomfortable feeling of being overlooked or underrepresented in many spaces, but imagine facing this when it comes to something as personal and important as your finances.
This is why representation in banking is so crucial. Our communities are melting pots, full of individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences. In fact, research from the University of Minnesota’s Ben Winchester shows that 46% of Minnesotans move every 5 years, and in many communities—including rural areas—less than 25% of people moving into the community had lived there before. This means that more and more, we are engaging with people who have different life experiences from our own. So, shouldn't the financial institutions we trust with our hard-earned money reflect that diversity as well?
At the heart of these conversations is the fact that women—especially women of color—continue to be underrepresented in financial services, both as consumers and as leaders within the banking sector. As women make up an increasingly significant portion of the workforce and entrepreneurship landscape, it’s more important than ever that financial institutions acknowledge and cater to the diverse needs of their clients.
Minnwest Bank: Rooted in Community, Committed to Representation
When we think about community-oriented businesses, Minnwest Bank is a prime example. As a family-owned institution with deep roots in Minnesota, Minnwest has made it a priority to engage with communities in meaningful and impactful ways. They understand that in today’s world, financial institutions need to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
Minnwest Bank is not just about providing traditional banking services—they are actively working to ensure that all members of the community feel supported, especially women and underserved populations. Through initiatives like the Women in Banking Conference and specialized financial workshops for entrepreneurs, Minnwest ensures that diverse voices are included in the financial decision-making process. This commitment to representation is not just about business—it's about recognizing that equitable access to financial tools and resources is a key part of building thriving, sustainable communities.
In addition to their work supporting business owners, Minnwest Bank has made a name for itself in the nonprofit sector. Their support goes beyond financial products, as they partner with organizations dedicated to child welfare, education, and empowering underserved groups. In 2024 alone, Minnwest employees volunteered nearly 1,300 hours across 176 organizations, reflecting their ongoing commitment to the well-being of the people they serve.
Minnwest Bank’s holistic approach to banking—where financial empowerment, community service, and leadership for women intersect—makes them a powerful ally in building a more inclusive and equitable future.
The Power of Representation in Nonprofits and Business
Representation matters in every sector, but it holds special significance in the nonprofit world. Nonprofits often serve as the lifeblood of our communities, especially in areas where traditional financial services may not reach. By empowering women and underserved communities with financial literacy and support, Minnwest is helping ensure that organizations focused on public good, social services, and community development are well-funded and positioned to make an impact.
Minnwest understands that nonprofits require more than just donations—they need sound financial strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and growth. By being a trusted financial partner to these organizations, Minnwest is helping them succeed in their missions, supporting both the organizations and the individuals they serve.
Minnwest's Continued Commitment
This is why Minnwest Bank’s partnership with organizations like She Leads International is so powerful. While She Leads provides a platform for women entrepreneurs and leaders, Minnwest provides the critical financial services, resources, and guidance that allow these women to bring their ideas to life and make a tangible difference in their communities.
As a sponsor of She Leads and an active community participant, Minnwest is doing more than offering banking services—they are actively shaping the future of women’s leadership and financial equity in Minnesota. Their focus on building stronger, more inclusive communities is something we can all support.
Join Us for an Empowering Webinar
As part of their ongoing commitment to women’s financial empowerment, Minnwest Bank is hosting a complimentary webinar on “Empower Your Business: A Woman’s Guide to Bankability” on Wednesday, May 21st, at noon Central. This session is designed to help women entrepreneurs gain the financial confidence and tools they need to build and grow successful businesses.
We invite you to join Minnwest and other like-minded women as we explore practical steps for securing financial stability, managing business finances, and increasing access to resources that can lead to business growth and sustainability. This webinar is another example of Minnwest’s dedication to empowering women and creating a more equitable financial landscape for entrepreneurs.
