Communities are stronger when everyone has an opportunity to thrive, and banks have an immense influence and impact on the communities and people they serve. Bremer Bank’s commitment to paving a more equitable path forward in our community has solidified them as the 2024 Inclusion Champion of the Year!

Bremer’s dedication to Inclusion starts at the top, with President & CEO Jeanne Crain being a champion of their Racial Equity Action Plan and its initiatives. The plan has guided Bremer’s internal and external inclusion efforts since 2020 and has become integrated into all aspects of their organization.

When it comes to the community, Bremer has established its presence within underserved areas in many ways, such as opening new branch locations and increasing investments into small businesses owned by historically underrepresented groups. They also played a pivotal role in standing up and continually supporting The Chamber’s Professionals of Color program five years ago, which focuses around creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through engagement and a sense of belonging in the FMWF area.

Bremer's purpose, to cultivate thriving communities, serves as a guide for their inclusivity work. Bremer also sets clear internal targets, integrating them into their organizational Key Performance Indicators. For example, they aim to double minority employee representation by 2027 and increase diversity in sales and leadership roles, fostering an environment where every employee feels valued and welcomed.

Through their internal diversity council, Lunch and Learn series, and Bremer Voices platform, they amplify diverse ideas and perspectives, celebrate differences, and foster understanding. Bremer's commitment to inclusion isn't just a goal—it's a journey, one they're dedicated to advancing year after year.

By partnering with organizations like the Center for Economic Inclusion, Bremer seeks guidance and best practices to continually evolve their inclusion efforts. They invest in training and community engagement to drive meaningful change and empower their leaders to champion inclusivity.

Bremer’s dedication to championing inclusivity sets an inspiring example for organizations everywhere, proving that with commitment and effort, any institution can evolve to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Congratulations to Bremer Bank, The Chamber’s 2024 Inclusion Champion of the Year!