Chicago’s first green bank comes to the Green Exchange
Green Exchange (2545 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago) is the country’s largest sustainable business community and will by the official banking establishment of GreenChoice Bank, the Midwest’s first community bank to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum certification, scheduled to open in 2009. GreenChoice Bank will leverage funds on deposit to invest in the local green economy, offering their clients the opportunity to make a values based decision about their banking services. Clients will also be offered green banking incentives such as advantaged loan and deposit products for clients actively embracing sustainability, and commercial clients building and creating green collar jobs and projects.
Harold L. Sherman, the bank’s chief executive officer said a nationwide economic downturn is exactly why the nation needs a consistent community banking industry. “GreenChoice Bank will support the small and medium sized businesses that will lift this country out of its economic crisis,” Harold says. GreenChoice Bank stands out from other LEED certified banks because the founders have designed the bank with sustainability informing every aspect of their operation. Instead of brochures, they will use electronic kiosks. Employees will receive incentives for taking public transportation and a zero percent car loan when buying fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicles. David Baum, Green Exchange co-developer, turned down several nationally recognized banks, but welcomes GreenChoice Bank because “they so clearly embrace a holistic approach to sustainability, from back office practices to front office products and services.”
The Green Exchange will be a convergence point for the green community, showcasing a mix of complementary businesses offering green products and services. The Green Exchange seeks to further Chicago’s efforts to become the greenest city in the United States.
Find out more about the Green Exchange and GreenChoice Bank on the marketplace’s website.
The complete version of this article appeared on GreenBankingCentral.com on Dec. 12, 2008.
Update: News of this addition to the Green Exchange also appeared on edcmag.com on Jan. 9, 2009.
Tags: Green Exchange