In today’s competitive landscape, financial institutions face an ongoing challenge: how to differentiate themselves while fostering meaningful connections with their audiences. One powerful yet often underutilized tool is financial education. By offering relevant, engaging, and accessible financial literacy resources to K-12 students, adults, and communities at large, financial institutions can not only enhance brand awareness but also strengthen their role as leaders in creating a financially literate society and future workforce.

Establishing Trust and Thought Leadership

Providing financial education positions your institution as a trusted authority in the financial services space. When individuals or businesses seek guidance on complex financial topics – whether it’s budgeting, saving for retirement, managing debt, or securing a loan – your brand’s educational resources can become their go-to source. Consumers increasingly prioritize brands they trust and a commitment to financial education signals that your institution is invested in their long-term success, not just short-term transactions. This approach fosters not only loyalty but also deeper community connections.

Reaching and Engaging Diverse Audiences

Different demographics face unique financial challenges. Tailored financial education programs allow financial institutions to meet audiences where they are, delivering information that is both relevant and impactful.

• K-12 Students: The foundation of a financially literate future begins in schools. Sponsoring financial education in K-12 classrooms helps students learn critical skills such as budgeting, saving, and understanding credit. EVERFI’s K-12 courses align with state financial literacy mandates, ensuring students receive the education they need while helping financial institutions meet CRA credit requirements.
• Adults and Families: Empower adults with tools and resources that address real-life needs like home buying, car loans, debt management, and retirement planning. Digital platforms ensure these resources are accessible when and where they are needed most.
• Employees: Financial wellness extends to your workforce. Equip employees with resources that help plan for retirement, manage investments, and reduce financial stress. Engaged and financially secure employees are more productive and loyal.

By partnering with local schools, community organizations, and small business associations, financial institutions can deliver these resources at scale, extending their reach across diverse populations.

Volunteerism, Mentorships, and Scholarships

Sponsoring K-12 financial education doesn’t just benefit students – it offers powerful opportunities for your employees to volunteer, mentor, and engage with their communities. A 2023 Gallup survey found that companies with highly engaged teams have less turnover, higher sales and profitability, and increased customer loyalty. Volunteer-led workshops or classroom sessions allow employees to share real-world financial knowledge, while mentorship programs create lasting relationships that inspire and guide students. Scholarships provide access to higher education for students who may otherwise face financial barriers. These initiatives not only benefit students but also build goodwill and deepen ties between your institution and the community. Additionally, volunteer and mentorship opportunities can help financial institutions earn CRA credit, reinforcing the dual value of community engagement.

Leveraging Data to Deepen Relationships

Financial education platforms also provide insights into the needs and behaviors of your audiences. By analyzing data such as course completion rates, popular topics, and customer feedback, your institution can refine its messaging and offerings. For example, if your data shows higher engagement with retirement planning content, you can follow up with targeted webinars, email campaigns, or personalized recommendations for related financial products. Understanding your audience better enables you to personalize their experiences and anticipate their needs.

Creating Community Impact

Financial education isn’t just a marketing strategy; it’s a way to give back. By equipping communities with critical financial skills, your financial institution contributes to their long-term stability and success. The ripple effect of financial literacy extends beyond individuals to the broader community, reducing financial stress and creating a more secure workforce. Some ways to create impact in the community include youth financial literacy programs or hosting workshops during key awareness periods like Financial Literacy Month in April or Back-to School season. These activities highlight your institution’s dedication to building a financially empowered community and future workforce.

Customizable Financial Education with EVERFI Achieve

Financial education is more than just a value-added service – it’s a bridge to deeper engagement, stronger trust, and long-term loyalty. By investing in financial education solutions, your financial institution can effectively raise awareness among key audiences, while driving meaningful change in the communities you serve. Ready to take the next step? Contact EVERFI today to explore how our tools can help your institution lead the way in financial literacy – with students and adults.