Climate First Bank

Ken LaRoe exemplifies unparalleled dedication to safeguarding our planet through innovative and sustainable practices. After successfully founding two banks in Florida, Ken founded Climate First Bank, the world’s first FDIC-insured digital community bank founded to combat the climate crisis. While most banks invest in harmful industries such as fossil fuels and weaponry, Climate First Bank uses finance as a force for good by investing its customers’ deposits into climate and community positive initiatives such as renewable energy, affordable housing and education. Ken leads the bank’s efforts to increase accessibility to renewable energy for businesses and individuals. The bank upholds rigorous standards of transparency and accountability, ensuring that its environmental claims are backed by measurable achievements and results. As of August 2024, the bank reached over $750 million in assets and has originated over $150 million in solar loans. Ken’s vision to integrate environmental responsibility into financial services sets him apart as a leader and attracts top talent who are committed to executing the organization’s mission while driving sustainable growth.

Ken is an internationally recognized leader in the field of ethical banking and an outspoken advocate for values-based business. He focuses on driving sustainable growth, attracting and retaining a strong team of experts, establishing partnerships and raising capital to ensure the success and growth of the bank. Ken states that he has dedicated his life to being a thought leader and agenda setter in pursuit of a better world. Due to this dedication, Ken led Climate First Bank to exit their regulatory de novo status in June 2024 with the goal of expanding nationwide. In 2023, the bank achieved B Corp Certification, further exemplifying its commitment to delivering positive value to communities and the planet.

Ken is a passionate advocate for diversity in both the workplace and community. He implemented Climate First Bank’s Pride Banking program, where for every qualified Pride Checking account, the bank donates to an LGBTQ+ nonprofit. Individuals who open a Pride Checking account are able to bank with their preferred name and pronouns, receive free pride checks, have no monthly account fee and have access to budget tools. Climate First Bank strives to change the status quo and uplift the community through supporting LGBTQ+ nonprofits and providing inclusive services. LGBTQ+ rights and environmentalism have always been closely conjoined. Climate First Bank works to bring together its customers to champion a more inclusive world. Last summer, Climate First Bank was recognized as a leading company in Orlando Business Journal’s Diversity in Business Awards. This accolade reaffirms the bank’s success in its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive community.

Through these initiatives, Ken has created a work environment that not only offers growth opportunities for employees, but celebrates their talents and specializations. Ken makes a personal effort to build relationships with his team, overseeing growth and taking an interest in their professional development.
Personal development is a key value of the Climate First Bank employee culture. The bank established the Mission Specialist Program to encourage team members to become more educated and connected in the community. Participating employees receive points for volunteer work, using public transit, composting, and continuing their education in sustainability and social justice by reading educational books, listening to podcasts or watching documentaries. These points translate to permanent pay increases– rewarding employees for seeking to become active members of their communities and embody the bank’s ethos. The proof is in the pudding, as Climate First Bank has obtained numerous award wins within the last year including the Orlando Business Journal’s Best Places to Work, Florida Trend Best Companies to Work For, and Ken’s most recent win of EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year, Florida.

Under Ken LaRoe’s leadership, Climate First Bank aims to celebrate innovation and individuality. The company prioritizes sustainability in all it does, making it a truly great place to work with the most impactful people.

About the Author

Taye Shobajo