A Spring Bank Small Business Feature
There’s nothing better than a classic New York slice from your favorite mom-and-pop shop, and that’s exactly what you get from Da Nonna Rosa in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Anthony Sagos and his brothers opened the restaurant and banquet hall in 2011, priding themselves on being 100% family-owned and operated. Da Nonna Rosa’s success transformed the brothers’ small business journey, prompting them to form Brooklyn Bros Corp and open three more restaurants under their new LLC.
“I worked in restaurants all my life. My brother Teddy and I worked at the same restaurant at one point and we were both managers, and I was in college at the time. One day, we turned to each other and said, ‘We should definitely do something on our own,’” Anthony tells us.
Shortly after that, Anthony and Teddy started their small business, Da Nonna Rosa. They were later joined by their brothers Paul, who worked in the restaurant industry, and Peter, who was studying to be a physical therapist. Da Nonna Rosa serves a variety of Italian fare but is especially known for its traditional New York-style pizza with a thin crust and Italian cheeses. Opening a successful pizzeria in the pizza capital of New York (and arguably, the country) was no easy feat. Still, the brothers were confident in each other and willing to take the risk.
“What really sets us apart is the family-owned and operated aspect. We get to know all the customers; I could tell you the names of most people who walk into the restaurant. You can go anywhere and grab a slice of pizza, but when you gain loyalty and respect from your customers, that makes you stand out. We also take ingredients very seriously. My brother Teddy and I took the dough recipe to heart, focusing on thin crust, light sauce, and high-quality cheese,” says Anthony.
A warm, welcoming environment and a delicious family recipe? Count us in! Anthony and his brothers genuinely serve the community, helping feed hundreds of frontline workers and gaining popularity for sharing their famous vodka ravioli pizza recipe on Good Morning America. Da Nonna Rosa stands out as a must-try spot and as a symbol of the community.
Under the Brooklyn Bros Corp name are three more restaurants: Simply Greek, Nonna’s Pizza, and Anatoli 56, all made possible by the success of Da Nonna Rosa. When the Sagos brothers came to us in search of a New York banking partner, we were enthusiastic to support them with a commercial real estate loan to buy the building that Da Nonna Rosa occupies.
“We’ve been with Spring Bank since our family friend introduced us, so almost four years together. Spring Bank makes you feel like family, and I think that’s why we fit in so well. Everyone made us feel comfortable, and everything went smoothly,” Anthony tells us.
As a community bank in New York, we love helping local small businesses reach their goals. We look forward to Brooklyn Bros Corp’s continued success and encourage you to stop by Da Nonna Rosa to try their popular grandma slice. If you’re in the mood for Greek or Mediterranean cuisine, visit Simply Greek and Anatoli 56 for delicious food with the same Sagos hospitality!
Interested in expanding your small business with a commercial real estate loan? Spring Bank is here for you. Visit us in the Bronx or Brooklyn, or contact us today to discuss how we can work together to meet your small business needs or explore our personal checking and personal savings account options.
A Spring Bank Small Business Feature
Determined to make the best of a sudden layoff in real estate marketing, Laura Schafferman pivoted to entrepreneurship. Known for her amazing sweet and salty cracker cookies, Laura decided to start a business selling them, coining the name Legally Addictive Foods. As the brand grew, Laura made deliveries across New York City by bike, Uber, subway, and foot.
Today, Legally Addictive cookies are sold in over 2000 retailers. We are proud to be their banking partner all these years later. As small business owners in New York City, Laura and Seth, cofounders and partners, knew they would eventually need to relocate to expand product lines, operations, and manufacturing. As lifelong New Yorkers, deciding to leave New York was extremely difficult for them. But demand for their delicious cookies increased so much that they outgrew the space where it all started.
“We left New York City because we couldn’t expand our production. We were in the tiniest place, and it’s tough to manufacture in New York City,” Laura tells us. “To find a space that would house the machinery we needed for automation would have been so expensive.”
So, how did they settle in Appalachia – a place 700 miles from home? During an impromptu trip to Asheville, Laura and Seth contacted a local small business owner to learn about the area. They were almost immediately convinced it was the right move and quickly began the relocation process.
By 2022, Legally Addictive officially relocated operations to Asheville to a 7,000-square-foot, much-needed space to scale their products and revenues. They now have a large warehouse and an operating kitchen, making day-to-day production more efficient and less expensive.
“We got really lucky. It was a fairly easy process, and we’ve doubled our output and team since moving our business and all manufacturing to North Carolina,” says Laura.
In true New York fashion, Laura and Seth took a leap into the unknown and made the most of it. With a larger team and space, Legally Addictive has grown to new heights and expanded its partnerships, introducing more flavors and sourcing ingredients from local businesses.
“We collaborate with Spicewalla, a spice company owned by Chef Meherwan Irani, who is of Michelin star tier here. We work with them on several of our flavors, including salted gingerbread and Mexican hot chocolate,” Seth tells us.
We’re deeply inspired by Laura and Seth’s commitment to business growth. While Legally Addictive Foods called New York City home, we were lucky to be their New York banking partner and provide them with a line of credit and PPP loan.
“When we needed a PPP loan, I called a big bank first. They said it would take weeks. So, I called Spring Bank, and within a day, we had everything we needed regarding the application,” reflects Seth. “I had this misimpression that bigger is better, and that’s not true, especially regarding banking. Working with a smaller bank gives you real customer service and a continual education.”
As a community bank in New York, our customers are more than a number. We make ourselves available to help you in times of need and are determined to find the best solutions for you and your business.
“I’ve gotten help from Spring Bank on the phone past five o’clock. They’re the opposite of what we were brought up thinking a bank is. They’re true partners. I’ve tried to send so many people in New York to Spring Bank,” Seth emphasizes.
We’re so glad Laura and Seth could benefit from our personalized customer service and tailored banking solutions while they lived in our service area. Working with them was a no–brainer. Legally Addictive’s potential is crystal clear, and we are enthusiastic about helping the brand sweeten more lives with its amazing cookies.
As Asheville continues to recover from Hurricane Helene, its small businesses need all the support they can get. Though they’re experiencing delays, the Legally Addictive team is still pushing out orders, and they’ve also introduced new festive flavors like “Salted Gingerbread” and “Peppermint Crunch.” Place an order for your loved ones, or satisfy your sweet tooth! Support more Asheville businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene here.
“We want to get the word out that people should return next season. Not everything will be rebuilt, but it won’t look like what it does now. Tourism isn’t the number one industry here, but it’s definitely a big part of the economy, and Asheville is still beautiful,” Seth tells us.
Thank you, Laura and Seth, for sharing your story and being cherished members of our small business community. We’re so proud of Legally Addictive Foods and look forward to all that 2025 will bring for the business and Asheville’s recovery from Hurricane Helene. Learn more about Laura and Seth’s story here.
If you’re searching for Bronx banks that offer a new business bank account, commercial lending, or other small business bank accounts, we can provide the support you need to flourish. Discover our commercial lending options and learn all about our commitment to growing small businesses.
Starting or expanding a small business in New York City takes more than just a great idea. It requires financial preparation, market understanding, and a solid business plan. At Spring Bank, we know the importance of operations, organizations, and systems to keep your business organized. Not only does proper business planning set your vision, but it also contributes to your financial sustainability and ability to access capital when you need it. We spoke with team members Germarie Medina, Commercial Loan Underwriter, and Erica Rosero, Small Business & Nonprofit Loan Officer, to provide a few New York banking tips to help you get organized before you seek capital.
- Understand Your Financials Inside and Out
To make a case for a loan or line of credit, you need a comprehensive understanding of your financial history and future projections. Erica has previous experience working at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and emphasizes that being financially organized is a critical step. This includes having a clear record of tax returns, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, as well as understanding any past financial challenges and how you’ve overcome them.
“You need to be able to justify your line of credit request. It makes an impression of your character and commitment to your business. Even if your financials aren’t up to par, being able to explain a financial analysis allows us the opportunity to make a case for your request. We can explain to our advisors, ‘Listen, I know the financials are not ideal, but this person knows what they’re doing, and they know their business,” explains Germarie.
- Clearly Define Your Business Goals and Needs
Loan readiness isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about having a well-articulated business plan and being able to explain your goals in action steps. While a business description is helpful, the most important thing is to explain your projections, how you’ll use the funds, and what you aim to achieve. Taking the time to research your market, forecast your growth, and outline future steps shows lenders that you’ve invested time in preparing and that you have a realistic vision for your business. The stronger your grasp of your business’s financial history and future projections, the more convincing your loan application will be to our underwriting team.
“It’s about presenting us the information as best as you can so that we can trust you with borrowing our money,” shares Germarie.
- Know Your Industry and Your Competitors
A deep knowledge of your industry’s landscape and the competitive market is key. As a community bank in New York, we prioritize staying up-to-date on market conditions, and we encourage small business owners to do the same. Thorough market research signals to lenders that you’re prepared to operate strategically in your space. It’s also critical for setting realistic goals and aligning them with your funding needs.
“Who are your competitors? Are you launching a product next year? Are you looking to hire new staff? You need to know the bigger picture of your business goals and be realistic about your industry position and loan ask,” explains Erica.
- Seek Resources and Guidance Along the Way
We understand that running a small business requires wearing many hats. That’s why we’re here to help guide you to free resources for business planning, like SCORE’s templates and webinars through the SBDC and Small Business Administration (SBA). As one of just a handful of community banks in New York, we’re committed to helping small businesses succeed with affordable banking products like our high-yield savings account, and top business checking account for those ready to grow.
“We understand as a business owner of a small company, you are only one person doing the job. But doing the work to understand your business is part of the process, even if you don’t know how to make financial projections or calculations. It is up to you to do the work, but you don’t have to do it alone,” says Erica.
Loan readiness takes effort, but with the right preparation and support, it’s achievable. By following these tips, you’re setting yourself up for success. We’re here to be part of your journey, committed to supporting your business with a small business bank account tailored to your needs and programs that empower your growth.
Ready to take your business to the next level? Explore our lending options here.
A Spring Bank Nonprofit Feature
For five decades, the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) has spearheaded grassroots leadership and transformation in the Bronx. Under the stewardship of Executive Director Sandra Lobo, the organization has been on the frontlines—confronting disinvestment, home abandonment, and, more recently, predatory development. Their work has transformed the lives of countless Bronx residents, and they continue to be a powerful force for economic and social justice. As NWBCC prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, they are not only reflecting on their long-standing impact but are charting a path forward to build a more inclusive and equitable Bronx.
“We’re really proud of the organizing work we’ve been doing for the last five decades. We see it as a legacy of resistance, particularly against disinvestment and abandonment in the 1970s and predatory equity and investment in more recent years,” says Lobo.
The NWBCCC’s membership model is a hybrid system. Through grassroots outreach, individual members go door-to-door, host town halls, and conduct surveys and small focus groups to understand the needs of the community. This personal, on-the-ground approach, ensures that the voices of local residents are heard and incorporated into the Coalition’s advocacy efforts. In addition, there are institutional members such as Christ Church Riverdale, Fordham University, and Local 79 who collaborate to align with the organization’s long-term vision. This model makes it easy for residents and organizations alike to get involved in shaping the future of their neighborhoods, ensuring that the Coalition’s efforts remain community-centered and inclusive.
“We believe that people impacted by community challenges should be at the center of decision-making. They know the issues the best from their own experience, so they need to be included as a partner in developing those solutions,” Lobo explains.
In recent years, the Coalition has adopted a proactive approach, shifting from “fighting back” against harmful development to “fighting forward” by working to scale shared ownership and collective governance over community assets. One of their most innovative steps was the creation of a community land trust in 2020, allowing tenants to own their buildings and ensure long-term affordability. This forward-thinking strategy empowers residents to step into leadership roles, developing policies, programs, and solutions that put community well-being at the forefront. However, this approach moves beyond simple advocacy.
“It goes beyond identifying the problem and demanding changes. We ask, ‘What would it look like if we collectively owned and governed this building? What decisions would we make differently from our negligent and absent landlord? How do we operate to sustain ownership and a safe and healthy building for all of us?’” Lobo says.
At a time when gentrification is pricing out long-time Bronx residents, NWBCCC’s work is more critical than ever. Studios are being built for over $3,000 per month—with “affordable” housing subsidies. In response, NWBCCC has been collaborating with partners like us, who see the power in helping nonprofits access loans and lines of credit to further their mission and strengthen the community.
We are proud to be one of the top banks in the Bronx, having provided critical support to NWBCCC and local businesses, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic. Our commitment to our nonprofit and business clients in the Bronx sets us apart from other banks in New York with our mission to serve communities that traditional financial institutions often overlook.
“A lot of businesses we organized sought out support for PPP loans from different banks, but most of them did not even get a callback. The one that did support them and worked with them to figure it out was Spring Bank,” says Lobo.
In the spirit of continuing its transformative work, NWBCCC is officially expanding its reach through a merger with the Bronx Cooperatives Development Initiatives (BCDI). This collaboration is a strategic step toward establishing a Bronx-wide impact as the two organizations unite to think critically about transforming the local economy. By merging, NWBCCC and BCDI are combining their planning and development capacity to secure more investment opportunities for the borough while focusing on empowering residents to take ownership of community assets. As one of the founding organizations of the BCDI, NWBCCC sees this merger as an opportunity to scale its work beyond traditional boundaries and strengthen the Bronx’s position as a thriving region of 1.5 million people.
Sandra Lobo reflects on the journey, stating, “As we think about where we are headed, we have made it very clear that we need to build the political and economic infrastructure necessary to transform the local economy and combat displacement and gentrification.”
As they continue to strengthen their leadership, grow their partnerships, and advocate for policies like the Community Land Act and the Tenant Opportunity Purchase Act, NWBCCC invites the community to join them in celebrating 50 years of building a better Bronx. Join us as we celebrate NWBCCC’s impact at their 50th Anniversary Gala this year. The gala will celebrate the organization’s rich history and powerfully remind attendees of the work that lies ahead.
Our partnership with NWBCCC exemplifies how local organizing and community banking can go hand-in-hand to create lasting change. As a community bank in New York, we offer various services tailored to nonprofits and small businesses, including business bank accounts and commercial real estate financing. Learn more about how we can support your mission, too.
Did you know there are almost 1500 Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) across the United States? Forty-seven years after the Community Reinvestment Act, we are proud to be among a community of financial institutions and nonprofit organizations with a shared mission of financial inclusion.
Since we opened our doors in 2007 as the first community bank in New York headquartered in the South Bronx in 25 years, we have stood as advocates for economic equity, community development, and financial inclusion. As a CDFI and member of the NYS CDFI Coalition, we’re proud to be part of New York’s CDFI movement and history, dedicated to ensuring individuals, families, and small businesses in the Bronx and beyond have access to affordable financial products and tools they need to thrive.
From the start, our mission has centered on transparency, relationships, and social equity. We believe in full disclosure of our services, personalized service, and partnering with groups that help improve financial literacy and economic opportunity in our communities. Our work aligns with the broader CDFI movement that began in the 1970s to counteract discriminatory lending practices and redlining that prevented marginalized communities from accessing capital.
About 30 years ago, the Riegle Community Development Regulatory Improvement Act created the U.S. Treasury’s CDFI Fund, marking a critical shift for financial institutions committed to serving low-income areas. Since then, CDFIs nationally have become a cornerstone of equitable economic development, managing billions in loans and investments dedicated to underserved communities. However, there’s still work to be done.
With a commitment of $25 million over five years, funds began to circulate to New York State CDFIs in 2021 with a promise from the NYS CDFI Fund to “support the delivery of affordable financial products and services and financial literacy programming to low- and moderate-income New Yorkers.” In addition, as New York’s first B Corp bank and a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), we stand by our commitment to measuring and reporting on our impact goals.
“We are proud to be part of a movement that has brought so much economic value to low- and moderate-income communities and are also deeply appreciative of the support we have gotten from the CDFI fund that has enabled us to bring innovative and impactful new products to our customers and communities,” says Melanie Stern, Director of Consumer Lending and our CRA Officer.
We remain committed to working alongside other mission-driven banks in New York, credit unions, and CDFIs throughout New York State, urging our elected leaders to continue supporting the financial well-being of all New Yorkers. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the CDFI Fund this year, we reflect on our progress, our communities’ resilience, and the work ahead. With our partnerships, advocacy, and unwavering dedication, we’re focused on building a more inclusive and sustainable New York banking sector.
Learn about some of the nonprofit organizations and small businesses we’ve had the opportunity to support, thanks to the CDFI Fund. We offer financial services tailored to nonprofits, small businesses, and individuals alike, each designed to uplift our community. Contact us today to learn more about how we can partner with you.
Creative Stage: A Small Business Feature
When we met Madeline Bender, Founder and CEO of Creative Stage, we were instantly inspired by her innovative thinking and commitment to delivering high-quality performing arts programs to children across New York City.
Founded in Harlem, Creative Stage is an education company that offers unique performing arts programs and experiences for children, including Musical Theater Builders, Dancing Designers, and Film Makers Workshop. The programs, designed to teach skills and abilities that extend beyond the performing arts, reflect Madeline’s background as an international opera singer, arts educator, and producer. Her priority is to deliver meaningful, quality experiences to children. With her expertise, Madeline carefully hires her artist-teachers, curating a team of professional designers, actors, and musicians who work collaboratively with children to help bring their creative visions to life.
“Our teachers are the face of the company. That’s who the kids interact with, and the quality starts there,” says Madeline. “No matter the flashy classes you come up with, the nuts and bolts of our business is that you have talented teachers who are good people with solid judgment and who are also skilled at working with each other.”
As small businesses ourselves, that philosophy resonates deeply with us and reminds us that no matter how cliché it sounds, teamwork really does make the dream work. Having the business idea and individual expertise will get you started, but molding a quality team with diverse skills propels the business forward.
In Madeline’s case, her focus on quality and maintaining a strong team not only propelled the business forward, but also helped them venture beyond their original mission with the creation of Creative Stage Collective (CSC), Creative Stage’s nonprofit sister organization. CSC brings the power of childhood imagination to the stage with an amazingly talented thespian troupe.
“Creative Stage Collective offers public performances, but we still involve the kooky ideas of kids, and kids participate in the performances,” Madeline explains. “It’s a high-octane version of the same methodology we use for our wacky, fun, devised pieces that we create with children that are in our educational programs with Creative Stage.”
CSC’s existence is due in large part to the success of Creative Stage. Starting a nonprofit wasn’t in Madeline’s original plans, but positive parent feedback brewed ideas that inspired her to take her small business journey to the next level.
“Parents told us that the shows we were creating with the kids [through Creative Stage] were really funny and entertaining. It made me think – why don’t we take some of the best material and invite some professional actors to perform it? So, we did that, we got Symphony Space and did it as a scholarship fundraiser the first time, and then it kind of just went from there,” says Madeline.
By 2021, Madeline made the decision to split Creative Stage and Creative Stage Collective into two separate entities – a for-profit company and a nonprofit organization. The significance? As a nonprofit, CSC can grow without diminishing the quality of Creative Stage’s programs.
“In New York City, unless you have a lot of capital, you can’t have a ‘performing’ anything that doesn’t take a huge amount of resources, and we didn’t want to take away resources from our students and the educational piece [through Creative Stage],” says Madeline. “Launching Creative Stage Collective as a nonprofit was the only way to do that because now we can take charitable gifts and write for grants.”
Today, Creative Stage continues to thrive alongside CSC and Madeline looks forward to growing the business by picking up more school clients.
As Creative Stage’s New York banking partner, we look forward to their continued success. Across our many years of partnership with Madeline and Creative Stage, we’ve happily assisted them with various banking solutions, including a PPP loan, business bank account, and dedicated small business support.
“I have to give a big shout-out to Spring Bank because while I was hearing about so many of my colleagues not getting PPP loans during the pandemic, they totally came through and helped me get two PPP loans. Otherwise, I would probably no longer be in business,” Madeline shares.
We’re so grateful that Madeline chose us among the many banks in NY and can proudly say that we’ve also learned a ton from her small business journey. We especially admire her unwavering commitment to delivering quality services and investing in her team.
“With Spring Bank, you get the feeling that there’s an attitude that they want you to succeed, whereas other banks that I’ve dealt with, you get the attitude that you’re just a cog in a wheel, and if you make a mistake, it costs you money,” says Madeline.
Learn more about Creative Stage here. Keep up with Creative Stage Collective’s performances, including their final Summer Shebang event on September 28th, here. If you’re interested in working with a community bank in New York dedicated to your success, our doors are wide open! We look forward to meeting new customers and helping them achieve their small business dreams with our many banking solutions. To get started, learn more about our small business bank accounts and transparent lending options.
“I would not be where I am without Spring Bank. It’s been a long, 12-year battle to get a bank to work with us. Spring Bank saw our vision and the contracts we had with New York City, and they took a chance on us.” —James White, CEO of DTM Parts Supply Inc.
For over 40 years, DTM Parts Supply Inc. has been a family-run business specializing in providing high-quality truck parts to New York City and government agencies. DTM’s expertise touches every industry that relies on trucks to keep the city moving. Led by CEO James White, DTM has grown exponentially, recently surpassing $3.4 million in contracts. This is a remarkable achievement from the $900,000 in contracts they managed less than four years ago. We are so grateful to be part of DTM’s journey.
“We’ve done more business in the last three years than in all 37 years prior,” James proudly notes.
DTM Parts Supply Inc. is no ordinary business. As an MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise), they are a preferred vendor for various New York City departments, including sanitation, parks, and transportation, making them an essential supplier for the city’s day-to-day operations.
“By being in the truck parts industry, we touch every industry in the world today. Deliveries are needed everywhere,” says James.
DTM Parts Supply Inc. is truly a family affair. James’s wife manages government contracts, his daughter oversees finances, and James himself focuses on New York City contracts. The full-time team of three is eager to grow as the demand for their services continues to rise.
But DTM’s road to success wasn’t always smooth. When James initially sought capital support, many banks turned him away.
“Other banks just gave up and stopped communicating. Spring Bank was the only bank that worked with me to get to the right place,” James recalls.
For James, the relationship with us goes beyond the numbers. Unlike bigger banks, which often see small businesses as high risk, James appreciates that we see his potential and the opportunities his business creates.
“It’s personal at Spring Bank. They know me, and they are there to help. I’ve never had a bank call to ask how they can help me. I’m not leaving Spring Bank,” he says
With plans to expand their contracts with even more government agencies, the future is bright for DTM. As a community bank in New York, we believe in the power of small businesses like DTM Parts Supply Inc. We take pride in providing personalized support to businesses that help our communities thrive. Whether you’re looking for a small business bank account, lending services, or simply a bank that believes in your vision, we are here to help. Discover how we can support your small business’s growth.
Community Voices Heard: A Nonprofit Feature
Community Voices Heard (CVH), a nonprofit organization, has been a vital force in advocating for racial, social, and economic justice for People of Color and those living in low-income communities in New York since 1994. Born from the commitment of eight women in 1994, CVH gives voice to people who are marginalized by systems designed to keep them in poverty. Their work recognizes the intersectionality of politics and community and addresses crucial areas like housing, healthcare, education, and democracy, aiming to build power within the very communities they serve.
As Juanita Lewis, Executive Director of CVH, says, “Just because we are on public assistance doesn’t mean we don’t deserve to be heard and to have a say on the policies that impact our lives.”
Thirty years later, CVH has evolved into a member-led organization that tackles challenging issues through grassroots organizing, leadership development, and advocacy for policy changes that benefit all New Yorkers. Their reach extends to communities across New York, including Westchester County, Orange County, the Bronx, and more. They have been committed to amplifying the voices of People of Color living on low incomes by ensuring they have a seat at the table when decisions are made. The needs of their members inform their initiatives through listening campaigns, a method of gathering input directly from the community to guide their policy agendas.
“Organizing is an art and a skill. We don’t make assumptions about what our community needs. We go out and listen to people and hear what they care about,” says Juanita.
CVH’s approach to organizing also prioritizes nonpartisan voter education, ensuring that residents understand the issues and candidates they are voting for. By connecting community members with the political process, CVH helps them make informed choices that impact their daily lives.
“Making the connection between the issues people care about and the election is a core part of our work,” Juanita explains.
For example, CVH’s Training Program for Organizing offers community members hands-on leadership development through intensive day-long or multi-day workshops. These trainings empower members to become organizers in their own right, equipping them with the tools to start local campaigns and build movements that ignite real change.
As CVH continues to expand its reach and impact, we are honored to support their work. As one of the few community banks in NY, we understand the unique financial needs of nonprofit organizations like CVH and are committed to providing the services and support that help them thrive.
“With Spring Bank, we know we have access to a group of bankers who care about our work as a nonprofit organization focused on community,” Juanita shares.
Through our nonprofit checking account services, we work with organizations to manage their finances efficiently and sustainably. We recognize that nonprofits often have to make critical financial decisions to maintain their operations and grow their impact. We are here to ensure they have the tools to succeed, by providing access to our checking accounts online.
To celebrate their incredible legacy, CVH invites you to their Lights of Freedom Gala, a night honoring their history and extraordinary work over the past 30 years. This event is a celebration and an opportunity to bring together leaders in the social justice community, elected officials, and supporters for a night of reflection, empowerment, and hope for the future. We are proud to be a sponsor of the Lights of Freedom Gala. You can also become a part of their movement. Whether you’re interested in becoming a member or participating in their next campaign, there’s no better time to help build the next era of community organizing in New York State.
At Spring Bank, we’re dedicated to supporting organizations like Community Voices Heard that create real, meaningful change in our communities. As one of the leading community banks in NY, we believe in the power of grassroots movements to create lasting change, and CVH’s mission resonates deeply with our commitment to uplift the Bronx and beyond. If you are a nonprofit looking for a financial partner that understands your needs, consider opening a nonprofit checking accounts online with us today.
“Spring Bank makes a difference by helping New Yorkers reach their goals.” – Smile Butt, Credit Analyst Summer Intern
For Smile Butt, a senior at Fordham University majoring in finance, her personal mission of making a difference in her career aligns with the work she’s doing here at Spring Bank. Over the past three months, Smile has had the opportunity to dive deep into the world of annual financial reviews and strategic financing at our bank in NY.
Having first learned about Spring Bank through a family friend, Smile was drawn to the fact that we are a certified B Corporation. She had been aware of the B Corp certification but was unaware of the certification for financial institutions. Our commitment to ethical banking sparked her interest in pursuing an internship here.
“I didn’t realize that banks could be B Corp certified. Bigger banks do not reach out to the people in our community,” Smile reflects. “For me, working for a mission-driven bank is more meaningful.”
As a Credit Analyst Summer Intern, Smile performs annual reviews to ensure our loan portfolio remains healthy and strong. She finds the most interesting part of her job to be analyzing and researching loan risks. Within a few weeks of working with our commercial real estate team, she discovered our approach to lending is human-centered and customized. We don’t view “risk” in the same way as traditional financial institutions.
“Just because a loan may be deemed riskier doesn’t mean that people [and businesses] shouldn’t be offered support,” Smile explains. “There’s no ulterior motive working with Spring Bank—they are actually trying to help people.”
Our unique community-driven mission has given Smile a new outlook on the banking industry. This perspective is at the heart of our commitment to providing growth opportunities for individuals and small businesses, especially those who may not have access to traditional banking services. Our dedication is evident in our commercial real estate and small business loans, designed to help New Yorkers achieve their financial goals.
“Spring Bank is good at guiding people to help improve their financial mastery. Where some people might not know how to navigate the lending process, Spring Bank can offer that support,” she says.
Working at a bank that prioritizes community has made Smile’s internship experience even more valuable. She also appreciates the opportunity to interact with clients and build trustworthy and transparent relationships. Such hands-on experience is exactly what she was looking for when seeking an internship in finance.
“This is my first banking internship, and I didn’t know much about lending at first, so I’ve learned a lot in this experience,” she says. “It feels good to work with people in the New York community. This aspect makes it a lot more personal and meaningful.”
As she prepares for her final year at Fordham, Smile hopes her experience at Spring Bank will lead to a long-term career in banking. Through her role in assessing loan risks and capital availability, she is gaining confidence and looks forward to exploring other roles within our commercial real estate lending team.
“I recommend joining the team at Spring Bank. The team is great, and you can learn so much. It’s a community bank, so everyone is accessible, even the executive team, making it easier for you to explore various roles and learn a lot,” Smile shares enthusiastically.
Learn more about our human approach to lending. Explore our commercial real estate program here. Whether you’re looking for the best savings account online, a new business bank account, or help with small business accounts, we are ready to help you reach your financial goals.
As a community bank in New York, we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact youth nonprofit organizations create in our community. They fill in necessary gaps, providing youth with ways to connect, develop social and emotional learning skills, stay intellectually stimulated, and provide free, invaluable resources to their families.
With rising costs and increasing educational disparities, we recognize that youth organizations are integral to the prosperity of our community and the flourishing of the next generation. So, as the first day of school nears for many families, now is the perfect time to discover programs for your children. Whether you need affordable childcare, after-school programs, or engaging outdoor activities, check out a few of our nonprofit clients below we’ve had the privilege of supporting:
BronxWorks
The BronxWorks Children and Youth Department serves 11,000 young Bronx residents under the age of 24 every year, but it didn’t start out that way.
BronxWorks opened its doors in 1972 to help seniors resolve housing disputes, and it has since adapted to meet the community’s most pressing needs. The organization now offers a diverse set of programs that include job training, health and wellness programs, adult and family homeless services, HIV/AIDs education, youth development, and food support.
We’re proud to partner with BronxWorks and admire their commitment to addressing community needs. Their youth services cover children of all ages and include early childhood centers, afterschool programs, camps, and adolescent development programs.
Learn more about BronxWorks’ Children and Youth Department here.
DREAM!
“One of my major goals is for conflict resolution to be part of the educational experience for everyone.” – Aisha Norris, Co-Founder and Executive Director of DREAM!
With experience working as a youth educator, mentor, and leader in NYC, Aisha pinpointed common needs among the youth she supported; conflict management skills ranked number one. She co-founded DREAM! in 2009 and has since focused on helping students and educators acquire the confidence, emotional intelligence, and practical skills they need to resolve conflicts creatively and productively.
Implementing restorative justice practices in schools is at the core of DREAM!’s work. They have proven to reduce school suspensions and increase student engagement dramatically. Outside of the classroom, students are engaged through peer mediation training, which involves experiential, fun workshops to help them change how they deal with conflict.
We’re so grateful to support DREAM! with our nonprofit banking solutions and look forward to helping them continue to reach their goals. Learn more about their impact here and discover internship opportunities.
Family Life Academy Charter Schools (FLACS)
“We are committed to our children receiving the rigor and enrichment activities they would get in any other zip code.” – Ms. Marilyn Calo, CEO of Family Life Academy Charter Schools (FLACS)
Founded in 2001 by the Latino Pastoral Action Center (LPAC) under the vision and activism of Bishop Raymond Rivera, FLACS has changed the trajectory of thousands of South Bronx families. With public schools failing to meet the needs of local families, the founding FLACS team developed a vision that would serve their community of primarily immigrant students and English language learners.
FLACS now offers a rigorous curriculum rooted in ENL (English as a New Language) and holistic academic opportunities. Students can engage in nutrition classes, arts, sports, and technology.
We’re a proud FLACS partner and are deeply inspired by the team’s commitment to supporting our shared community in the South Bronx. Learn more about our partnership and their impact here.
Grand Street Settlement
Founded in 1916, Grand St. Settlement has a long history of providing programs that empower NYC youth and help them overcome adversity, including the era of the Great Depression and, most recently, COVID-19.
We have the pleasure of being their business checking account partner and are so inspired by their growth and resilience. Today, they offer early childhood, youth, seniors, individual and family services.
With the help of a federal grant, Grand St. Settlement will provide Head Start programming for 583 more children and their families. This funding enables Grand St. to open another Head Start center in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, six new center-based programs in the Bronx, and over 17 family child care partnership programs in surrounding boroughs.
Grand St.’s commitment to high-quality, affordable childcare programs is unparalleled, and we encourage you to explore all of their offerings here.
Rocking the Boat
“It’s that feeling that they can put their energy into something, actually get a result out of it, and know that that energy was worth applying. It reminds youth they have inherent value.”
– Adam Green, Founder & Executive Director of Rocking the Boat
Adam founded Rocking the Boat in 1995 and developed a program that used the process of building and using wooden boats to educate and empower young people from underserved communities.
Today, the organization focuses on youth development through boating and preserving the Bronx River. Rocking the Boat offers free public programs, including community rowing, boat building, sailing, and environmental science.
With so much to offer, Rocking the Boat is an invaluable resource for young people to develop a sense of purpose and pride. In addition to being their New York banking partner, our CEO, Demetris Giannoulias, also serves on their board of directors. Learn more about their offerings here.
The Kota Alliance
“It’s satisfying to help women one-on-one. But in the end, big change happens only when you do organizational and systemic work.” – Jaana Rehnström, MD MPH, Kota Alliance Founder and President.
The Kota Alliance opened its doors in 2015 and has been swinging the pendulum ever since. As an incubator and hub for gender equality, their mission is women empowerment. Services include entrepreneurship, collaboration, and advocacy.
For parents of young daughters, Kota Alliance is an amazing resource for young girls to engage with their community, explore self-expression, and learn how to be themselves unapologetically. From the healing arts to health and wellness, their programs are rooted in local partnership.
We’re so proud to have helped the team at Kota Alliance move into their own location in Harlem with the help of our commercial lending services and business checking account! Learn more about The Kota Alliance’s programs here.
Our Commitment to Nonprofits
Community means everything to us, which is why we partner with these amazing youth nonprofits and offer personalized banking solutions to all of our nonprofit customers.
With our nonprofit banking solutions, you have access to more than just one kind of small business bank account. We have specific nonprofit business bank account options and nonprofit lending services.
Choose us as your trusted nonprofit banking partner today. Get in touch with our team here.