Benton Economic Partnership Inc. Has Multiple Banking Partners to Support Residents and Businesses

The Benton Economic Partnership (BEP) is a member-driven organization. Local businesses invest in BEP because they want to see the region succeed. A key group of members who improve the lives of residents and business owners are our local banks. Through account services, loan approval, and other financial help, our member banks make Benton County stronger.

“Not only do our banks provide financial resources to the region, but many are actively involved in their communities,” says Amanda Othoudt, executive director of BEP. “This reflects their commitment to helping local industries and neighborhoods grow sustainably in the coming years.”

Whether you are a new resident in Benton County, an entrepreneur just starting out, or a seasoned business poised for growth, these banks can support you. Here are a few members who are ready to help. 

Falcon National Bank

Falcon National Bank has offices in Foley, St. Cloud, Richmond, Ham Lake, Isanti, and Maple Grove. It has a dedicated office for equipment financing, supporting local and national industries. This bank offers a variety of business and personal products, including both lines of credit and reward accounts.

“Falcon National Bank delivers ‘Service that Soars Above the Rest’, and we make a point to get to know you to best serve your needs,” says Bransron Voit, Market President at Falcon National Bank. “You have a direct line to a banker who has direct lines to their peers for quick responses and actions. And, we’re empowered to think of reasons why it can be done. Great service builds lasting relationships and more successful customers.”

Falcon Bank's values are building relationships, working with integrity, offering trusted solutions and exceptional service, with reliable execution. At our core we know that we can, and will, RISE to every occasion.

Gate City Bank

Gate City Bank has supported communities across Minnesota and North Dakota for more than a century. It boasts 770 team members across its 45 locations in 23 communities, including Benton County. Its core principles are based on community involvement, and the bank is present at various events and non-profit gatherings across town.

“Our tagline is ‘For a Better Way of Life®,’ which drives our mindset of servant leadership,” says Megan Pflipsen, a retail manager at Gate City Bank. “At the core of who we are, we believe in serving our customers, communities, and one another with innovative solutions, better products, and a heart for philanthropic giving. In 2024, we were able to contribute over $9,000 and 340 volunteer hours within our Central Minnesota community.”

Benton County residents can visit their nearest Gate City Bank location in Sauk Rapids, St. Cloud, and Waite Park.   

Pine Country Bank

Pine Country Bank has four locations in the region: Little Falls, Rice, Royalton, and Sauk Centre. This bank not only works with individuals to acquire home mortgages but also offers a variety of business and agricultural banking services. 

“Pine Country Bank has the unique opportunity to support individuals and businesses in the St. Cloud area by having the service of a small-town community bank combined with the financial power of a large national bank,” says Doug Dahlberg, a loan officer at Pine Country Bank. “We get to know our customers by being involved in the communities we serve. This involvement gives us the perspective and knowledge to serve every one of our customers based on their needs.”

This bank prides itself on offering personal touches that make navigating the financial world easier. Its resource page connects residents to local organizations or online tools to help them learn more about their banking options.  

“What we don’t want to do is treat a customer as a number who needs to fit into whatever cookie-cutter product that is offered, which you may find at a larger bank,” says Dahlberg. “We are your neighbors, your coaches, and your friends. Your Hometown Bank!

Find Your Ideal Banking Partner in Benton County

Benton County has several quality banking partners who can help businesses grow while working with individuals to reach their financial goals. Learn more about our members and find local partners you can trust.    

If you run a local business and want to join a larger community invested in Benton County, consider becoming a member investor. There are several benefits including networking opportunities, technical assistance, and access to grants and gap financing. You can shape the future of our community while growing your business. Join BEP today.