United Bank is First in State to Support Lending in Underserved Communities Through Investment in NCIF

This release was distributed by United Bank and published here with permission. To view the original posting, click here. 

SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.V.—United Bank, Inc., a subsidiary of United Bankshares, Inc., the largest bank holding company headquartered in West Virginia, recently announced the investment of $500,000 in the Natural Capital Investment Fund (NCIF). NCIF, a small business lender that supports locally-owned enterprises in Central Appalachia and the Southeast, will use the funds to support its small business lending to underserved communities throughout the state. NCIF is based in Shepherdstown.

“At United Bank, we are proud of our strong community ties and the meaningful relationships we have built with the individuals, businesses and organizations that contribute to the prosperity of West Virginia. Our partnership with the NCIF is an example of our ongoing commitment to the state and will increase lending and investing in our communities,” said Henry Kayes, chief operating officer of United Bank, Inc. 

United’s investment will enable NCIF to maintain its risk tolerance and lending flexibility, while lowering its cost of capital. United is the first bank in West Virginia to support the fund using an equity equivalent, flexible investment. NCIF and its community partners have funded over 200 businesses and created or retained 3,000 jobs since 2001. 

“NCIF recognizes the crucial role small businesses play in creating a diverse economy and vibrant communities,” said Marten Jenkins, president of NCIF. “We are proud to work with small business owners who are creating jobs, building local economies and generating positive social and environmental impacts. We’re grateful to United Bank for its demonstrated commitment to local economic development here in West Virginia.” 

About Natural Capital Investment Fund 
Natural Capital Investment Fund provides loans and advisory services to entrepreneurs who are creating jobs and triple-bottom-line businesses in underserved communities in Central Appalachia and the Southeast. Founded in 2001, NCIF is a U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) affiliated with The Conservation Fund. For more information, visit www.ncifund.org. 

About United Bank, Inc. 
United Bank, Inc. is a subsidiary of United Bankshares, Inc., the largest bank holding company headquartered in West Virginia. It has assets of approximately $6 billion and 57 full-service offices throughout West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio and Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.BankWithUnited.com.


Contacts:
Amy Fanta Caruthers | United Bank | 304.424.8812 | amy.caruthers@BankWithUnited.com