“Noel Night is an amazing showcase and celebration of local businesses in Durango. As a CDFI bank focused on promoting economic growth and supporting small businesses, we are proud to sponsor this great community event.”

– Kent Curtis, President and CEO of First Southwest Bank

As we gear up for this year’s Noel Night, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on one of our generous sponsors, First Southwest Bank (FSWB). For over 100 years, FSWB has been a cornerstone of rural Colorado, offering not only financial services but also a deep commitment to community growth and well-being. In this Q&A, FSWB shares more about their mission, values, and what inspired them to support Noel Night—a beloved local event that brings together our community to celebrate the season and support local businesses.

Read on to discover how FSWB is making a lasting impact in Southern Colorado, and why they believe in the power of community-driven events like Noel Night.

Can you share a bit about First Southwest Bank’s Mission and Values?

First Southwest Bank has been committed to serving the San Luis Valley and Rural colorado for more than 100 years. We are an independent community bank who is deeply involved in the communities we serve through donations of time, talent and resources. We work to cultivate valuable relationships by putting our people and culture FIRST. Invest in economic and social innovations by leading fresh ideas. And by fostering a well-lived rural culture by making a difference in our communities.

As one of two CDFI banks in the whole state of Colorado. Community is truly at our core. We are dedicated to improving the quality of life in our communities by promoting economic opportunities with loans, deposit products, financial education and other resources that create value for all sectors, to include the distressed and underserved areas in Southern Colorado.

What inspired FSWB to sponsor Noel Night?

Whether it’s sponsoring local events and donating to local nonprofits, providing free financial counseling to community members, serving on local boards, or volunteering for local community events, we are proud to support local organizations and events that positively impact our community. Noel Night is something we believe positively impacts and brings together the local community. It reflects on the connections and dedication of local organizations to foster a vibrant spirit of local culture.

How does FSWB support local businesses and community throughout the year?

First Southwest Bank is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). CDFI banks are mission-driven organizations dedicated to promoting economic growth and development in areas that traditional banks may overlook. When you bank at a CDFI, you contribute to the revitalization and improvement of your community. We also do this by making donations and sponsoring local events, non-profits and other educational organizations within the SLV.

What are some upcoming projects or initiatives that FSWB is excited about?

We are approaching a major milestone!

November 2024 marks our ten-year anniversary as a CDFI bank! In November 2014, we earned the CDFI designation from the US Treasury, making us one of only two CDFI banks in Colorado. The CDFI designation holds us responsible for providing access to capital and banking for all members of the communities we serve. Our innovative financial products and services foster financial inclusion and drive economic growth.