About the Equitable Bank Standards

In 2022, Beneficial State Foundation (BSF) launched the Equitable Bank Standards (“the Standards”). Since then, much has changed in the financial industry and the marketplace for responsible banking practices. As we prepare to revise the Standards in 2025, we want to hear what you believe is needed for financial institutions to better foster an equitable and regenerative future for all communities. 

The Standards, as originally designed, are ambitious. Comprising 130 standards across three levels and five categories, they provide a structured roadmap for banks to make measurable progress in social and environmental impact. Moving forward, we aim to refine the Standards to offer more manageable, incremental steps for financial institutions.

Public Comment Period (Fall 2024)

The public comment period will occur from Tuesday, September 17 through Tuesday, December 3, 2024. During this time, you can lend your voice to help us shape the next iteration of the Equitable Bank Standards.

We want to hear from you! Share your feedback on which standards resonate, and suggest any updates, refinements, or additions that can drive meaningful change. Your insights will guide us in making the Standards more practical, user-friendly, and impactful for the financial industry.

Who should respond

We seek input from individuals and those representing organizations connected to the financial industry. Key participants include banks, credit unions, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), regulators, shareholders, community-based organizations, environment-focused organizations, advocacy organizations, think tanks, research and academic institutions, and consumers especially impacted by banking access. Since we are all impacted by the financial industry, each of us also holds the power to contribute insights meaningful to shaping it for the better.