Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has officially designated the week of October 20–24, 2025, as Oregon Community Bank Week. The proclamation acknowledges the role community banks play in supporting Oregon’s local economies and their adoption of new technologies to provide broader access to financial services.
Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council (AFC), commented on the announcement: “Community banks are the backbone of local economies, helping small businesses grow, families achieve stability, and communities thrive. By embracing responsible innovation, Oregon’s community banks are proving that progress and tradition can coexist – pairing the trust of relationship banking with new technologies that better support customers and help community banks compete nationwide.”
Community banks in Oregon have been increasing their use of technology to serve more customers and improve efficiency. Many are partnering with fintech companies to offer expanded credit options and secure digital tools across both urban and rural areas.
Ashley Urisman, Director of State Government Affairs at AFC, stated: “Governor Kotek’s recognition underscores what makes Oregon’s financial ecosystem so special. Community banks are not only anchors of their neighborhoods, they are leaders in responsible innovation. By working hand in hand with fintech partners, community banks are extending opportunity to rural and underbanked Oregonians, helping ensure that financial progress truly reaches everyone.”
The American Fintech Council is a trade association representing major fintech companies and innovative banks that focus on embedded finance solutions. The organization aims to foster a transparent and inclusive financial system by promoting responsible innovation and sound public policy.