This month, the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce spoke with David Cota, Executive Vice President, Banking at FNBO.
FNBO is one of the largest privately held banks in the U.S. with over $30 billion in assets and 5,000 employees. After being in business for more than 165 years, most people in Omaha are familiar with the brand, which also has banking offices in Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming.
“We have a great history, but an even better future ahead of us,” said David Cota, Executive Vice President, Banking at FNBO.
He explains that FNBO is excited to invest in products and services that contribute toward its customers’ financial wellbeing.
“We were one of the first banks to start offering free checking accounts in 2012, and in 2023 we eliminated overdraft fees, which is a huge benefit for our customers,” said Cota. “We simply believe it is the right thing to do.”
In recognition of this work, FNBO was recently honored by Money Magazine as the best bank in the Midwest in the category for “Best Fees.”
Additionally, FNBO proudly serves many small businesses in the greater Omaha area, many of which are fellow Chamber members. “We are proud to be a financial partner for small businesses who help our community thrive.”
Thinking ahead about what will best serve its customers goes hand-in-hand with how FNBO interacts and contributes to the communities it calls home. The company focuses its philanthropic efforts in three areas: workforce development and entrepreneurship; affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization; and adult education, financial literacy and security. In fact, it was awarded its third consecutive “Outstanding” rating under the Community Reinvestment Act, which provides a framework for financial institutions to partner with community organizations to promote the availability of credit and other banking services to low-to-moderate income neighborhoods and individuals.
Through its customer-led focus and commitment to its communities, it’s clear FNBO’s success story will continue well into the future. David Cota shared some advice for other local businesses that is part of their cultural bedrock:
“Omaha naturally has people with a great work ethic who are ready to contribute and use their skills,” said Cota. “I’d advise any business leader to take advantage of the great talent available locally through connecting with students, providing opportunities from entry-level to executive and instituting a culture that is genuine and meaningful to team members. At FNBO, we recognize we’re only as successful as the people who create this team, so reinvesting and listening to them makes everyone stronger. If all companies in Omaha approach this with the same perspective, our city and economy will grow, and our people will be more productive and fulfilled.”
FNBO also recognizes the important work the Greater Omaha Chamber does in promoting a positive environment for business growth, both organically and through development efforts.
“The Greater Omaha Chamber provides a place for Omaha business leaders to convene and address the economic and workforce development needs of our city,” said Cota. “We appreciate the Chamber listening to business leaders from companies of all sizes to advocate for a beneficial business environment for all.”