Nonprofits play a vital role in strengthening communities in and around the DFW Metroplex and having the right banking partner can make that work even more impactful for the long term. A strong relationship with a banker isn’t just about transactions. It’s about collaboration, shared values and leveraging financial resources that help your mission thrive.
Below are practical steps for nonprofits to build a banking partnership that contributes to sustainable impact of the organization.
Ground the Relationship in Mission & Vision
A meaningful banking partnership starts with clarity. When you meet with a prospective banker, share the heart of your organization:
• Who you serve
• Your mission and core programs
• How you’re funded
• Your financial goals and current challenges
The more your banker understands your purpose, the better they can align financial tools, resources and guidance to support your work.
Seek Bankers Who Understand & Specialize in the Nonprofit Space
Nonprofits operate with unique rhythms, like grant cycles, board oversight, restricted funds and fluctuating revenue streams. Fortunately Amegy Bank’s nonprofit banking team specializes in financial solutions tailored to meet the needs of different-sized social services, cultural and professional organizations, with diverse funding models, looking to take their meaningful work to the next level.
Amegy bankers specialized in working with nonprofit operations can help you:
• Manage cash flow between reimbursement cycles
• Structure accounts for transparency and compliance
• Build reserves that support long‑term stability
• Provide specialty products such as capital campaign financing or tax-exempt lending to help with your capital projects
Build a Relationship Beyond Transactions
The best banking relationships grow from ongoing communication and trust. Seek a banker who:
• Checks in regularly
• Shows genuine interest in your programs and community impact
• Offers proactive suggestions or solutions
• Responds quickly when challenges arise
This kind of support turns your banker into a partner who understands not just your numbers, but your mission.
Tap Into Your Banker’s Community Connections
Amegy bankers are deeply woven into our local communities. Through Amegy Bank’s specialized nonprofit financial solutions, employee engagement and ongoing community investments, we aim to meet organizations’ financial needs so they can focus solely on their impact and mission. A well‑connected banker can introduce your organization to:
• Potential donors
• Community leaders
• Local businesses and partners
• Philanthropic networks
These introductions can lead to meaningful collaborations, expanded visibility and even new funding opportunities.
Invite Your Banker into Your Mission
The more your banker sees your work firsthand, the more authentically they can advocate for you. Consider inviting them to:
• Volunteer days
• Site visits or program tours
• Annual fundraising events
• Community celebrations or outreach efforts
Experiencing your mission in action helps deepen their commitment and ability to support you effectively.
Keep Communication Open & Transparent
Strong partnerships rely on communication. Keep your banker updated on:
• Budget updates, audits or financial reviews
• Leadership or board transitions
• Major grants awarded or funding changes
• Cash flow needs or upcoming challenges
Sharing timely updates ensures your banker can offer solutions before issues become urgent.
Use Your Banker as a Capacity‑Building Resource
Banks often provide resources that nonprofits can use at no cost, including:
• Workshops on fraud prevention or cash‑flow management
• Financial training for staff or board members
• Reviews of treasury management systems
• Support with risk mitigation
• Insights into financial trends affecting nonprofits
These resources can strengthen internal operations, especially for nonprofit teams that wear many hats.
Invest in a Long‑Term Partnership
A strong banking relationship grows with your organization. At least once a year, schedule time with your banker to:
• Review your financial goals
• Discuss program changes or expansion plans
• Evaluate cash management strategies
• Identify new funding or partnership opportunities
The deeper the relationship, the more value your organization will receive over time.
Final Thought
When approached intentionally, your relationship with a banker becomes more than a financial transaction. It becomes a partnership rooted in shared commitment to your mission and community. The right banking ally can help strengthen your financial foundation, expand your reach, and support your organization’s ability to create lasting impact. Learn more at amegybank.com.
*About Shirley Cox, a long-time friend to Project Partners and our nonprofit community of North Texas.
Commercial lending manager Shirley Cox joined Amegy Bank in May 2021 and has since established the Arlington location and market, significantly expanding the bank’s presence in North Texas. With over 35 years of experience in the banking and finance industry, Shirley’s background in commercial lending and concentrated work with not-for-profit entities has uniquely positioned her to serve the banking needs of 501(c)3s across Dallas-Fort Worth and Arlington, from assisting with capital campaign financing to tax-exempt lending and more. She is based in Arlington, volunteers regularly and currently serves as board president for Arlington Charities and secretary for the Rotary Club of Arlington.