EFFINGHAM, ILLINOIS – January 7, 2025 – Midland States Bank was recognized as a finalist for the Best Initiative to Promote Financial Inclusion by The Future Branches Innovators Awards.

This national award recognizes institutions that have provided innovative products or programs within their communities to help the unbanked, underbanked, or those facing financial hardship.

“We are honored to be recognized as a finalist among such innovative leaders in the banking industry. This acknowledgment underlines our dedication to making financial resources more accessible to the communities we serve,” commented Jeff Mefford, Midland States Bank President.

Midland’s Community Impact Investment Statement (CIIS) serves as the foundation of its financial inclusion efforts. Through initiatives such as Financial Empowerment Booths, Community Partnership Days, and partnership-driven collaboration with local nonprofit organizations, Midland has provided ways to empower individuals to build stronger financial futures.

“This recognition reflects the collaborative dedication and creativity of our entire Midland team,” said Martesha Brown, Director of Community Economic Development at Midland States Bank. “We’re honored to be recognized for innovation in driving meaningful change and empowering individuals and communities to thrive across Illinois and St. Louis.”

Midland was one of four finalists, and the award was presented at the Future Branches Conference in Austin, Texas by Worldwide Business Research. To learn more about Midland’s community involvement efforts and services, visit https://www.midlandsb.com/about-us.

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About Midland States Bancorp, Inc.
Midland States Bancorp, Inc. is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in Effingham, Illinois, and is the sole shareholder of Midland States Bank. As of March 31, 2024, the Company had total assets of approximately $7.83 billion, and its Wealth Management Group had assets under administration of approximately $3.89 billion. The Company provides a full range of commercial and consumer banking products and services and business equipment financing, merchant credit card services, trust and investment management, insurance and financial planning services. For additional information, visit https://www.midlandsb.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/company/midland-states-bank.