If you think banks are part of the problem, take a look at Triodos Bank, a financial institution that attempts to do things differently. They're not only focused on money -- they invest in people, the environment and arts and culture. In a recent article published in the Guardian's Social Enterprise Network, writer Margaret Heffernan said her and a group of U.S. business school students visited Triodos and others as an example of an exemplary social enterprise.
And Triodos Bank certainly is a great example of doing things the good way. Their expertise include organic food, energy, the arts, microfinance and sustainable banking. Some of their products and services offered include internet banking, savings and investments.
Contact Information
Triodos Bank website
Triodos on Facebook
Triodos on Twitter
Triodos on YouTube
People-Focused Finance
Triodos Bank Adheres to the Triple Bottom Line
Trend Themes
1. People-focused Finance - The trend of financial institutions investing in people, environment, and arts and culture to create a positive impact in society creates opportunities for social enterprises to gain traction.
2. Socially Responsible Banking - The trend of financial institutions adopting sustainable banking practices that go beyond maximizing profits can lead to opportunities for emerging sustainable banking startups to differentiate and grow.
3. Microfinance Expansion - The trend of inclusive finance and microfinance services targeted towards marginalized communities can lead to opportunities for innovating financial products and services that cater to the specific needs of these communities.
Industry Implications
1. Financial Services - The financial services industry can shift towards investing in socially responsible initiatives to create a positive societal impact and differentiate itself from traditional financial institutions.
2. Sustainability - Although sustainability has been a growing trend, the finance industry embracing sustainability practices can lead to a ripple effect across other industries towards a more sustainable future.
3. Social Enterprises - The growing trend of people-focused finance and socially responsible banking plays into the strengths of social enterprises, which can take advantage of these shifts to gain more support.