Since it opened its doors in 2000, Crown Bank has been focused not just on being a bank in the community, but on being a bank of the community. “Every decision we make is local — handled by bankers who live and work right here in Minnesota,” says Jeff Wessels, its president and COO. “That means our clients aren’t waiting on out-of-state committees; they’re talking directly with decision-makers who understand their business and the local market.”
Over its 25 years, Crown Bank has evolved from a traditional commercial lending enterprise into a true business banking partner for small to medium-sized enterprises. “We’ve shifted from simply providing loans to delivering tailored, creative financing structures — often outside of the box — that help businesses scale in moments of opportunity and survive in times of crisis,” he says. “Many of our current clients and some new clients survived the pandemic when we approved and funded their PPP loans within days, allowing them to pivot to manage the crisis and even find ways to expand and grow.”
That’s the power of community banking: fast decisions, personal relationships, and reinvestment that directly benefit clients and communities.
The bank, with local branches in Edina and Minneapolis, offers quality, personalized financial services. This is why many of its clients have remained with the bank since its inception, as have many of its staff members.
This low turnover rate, Jeff believes, is another significant advantage to doing business with Crown Bank versus other banks, especially larger banks. “When you walk in the door, you're going to see that same person you did if you were a customer for the first time 10 years ago. We are huge on relationships, and we're going to take care of those folks who are willing to put their money in our bank or take out a loan with us.”
Its team, which has grown considerably over the years, now includes specialized commercial lenders in manufacturing, technology, professional services, as well as real estate, treasury management, and digital banking experts who help clients integrate systems and manage liquidity. Strategic financial partners are also on board to help structure growth capital, evaluate acquisitions, and manage risk.
“What hasn’t changed is our relationship-first approach,” says Jeff. “Our bankers still take calls after hours, meet at client locations, and work nights and weekends when clients need us.”
Its staff is also deeply connected to the community through their engagement in various business associations, chambers, and entrepreneurial networks. “And, we’re deepening our investment in the community — not only through financial contributions, but also by encouraging our employees to volunteer their time and talents actively,” he says. “From supporting nonprofits like Every Meal to engaging in local initiatives, we believe giving back is an essential part of building stronger businesses and stronger communities.”
Crown Bank is also a contributor to the FHLB Member Impact Fund, a matching grant program that provides up to $3.00 for every $1.00 contributed by member institutions. These funds support initiatives for affordable housing and community development.
“We secured $140,000 in combined grants and contributions to support nonprofits like the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, VEAP, Avivo, and Urban Ventures,” he says.
Team members also volunteer their time to clean up local parks and donate to multiple community organizations. The bank’s philosophy is that writing a check is only the start — actual impact comes from showing up, volunteering, and investing time and expertise.
Being locally owned and operated also ensures that every dollar the bank lends remains local, helping to fuel growth and create jobs, which in turn result in stronger neighborhoods for the people who live and work here.
Even with all of these accomplishments, Crown Bank isn’t stopping in its pursuit of excellence. Its future, says Jeff, will focus on innovation, partnership, and community investment. “On the innovation side, we are expanding digital treasury management, real-time payments, and forecasting tools to help business owners see around corners and make better decisions,” he says. “As partners, we remain committed to being the first phone call when entrepreneurs need guidance — whether that’s during a crisis like COVID or when growth opportunities arise, as we saw with ASI, First Avenue, Citrus Systems, and Fountain Real Estate Capital.”
The future of Crown Bank is going to be as dynamic as its past and present. “It’s all about being nimble enough to support growth-stage entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and innovators in ways that larger banks can’t,” he says.
To learn more about establishing your own future success, go to Crown-Bank.com.