About CBW

Community Bankers of Washington (CBW) is the state’s only organization dedicated solely to supporting Washington’s independent community banks and the customers they serve. We are a member‑driven association governed entirely by community bankers.

Founded in 1989 as the Washington Independent Community Bankers Association (WICBA), CBW was created by bankers who felt their needs were not being represented. They united to protect the community banking franchise, navigate industry change, and preserve their independence. The association became Community Bankers of Washington in 2007 and continues to grow while honoring its founding mission.

Our Mission

To create value for Washington’s community banks through advocacy, professional development, networking, industry resources, and a full range of member benefits.

CBW is affiliated with the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), giving our members a strong voice on national regulatory and legislative issues

Member Benefits

Advocacy

CBW is the only trade association advocating exclusively for Washington’s community banking industry. We work with one of the state’s most experienced financial‑industry lobbyists to ensure your institution’s priorities stay top‑of‑mind with lawmakers. During each legislative session, members receive concise Legislative Updates and Conference Calls covering key bills, regulatory issues, and political developments.

Forefront of Education

Access to high‑quality training is essential in today’s fast‑changing financial environment. CBW offers its own programs and partners with associate members and community banking associations nationwide to provide member‑only pricing on top‑tier education, including live and on‑demand webinars.

Peer Networking

CBW Peer Networks connect community bankers in similar roles for meaningful collaboration, shared problem‑solving, and real‑time insight into emerging challenges. Our three peer groups — CBW FAN (Finance & Accounting Network), CBW FORCE (Fraud, Operations & Risk), and CBW BOND (BSA Operations & Networking Dialogue) — provide trusted spaces for members to exchange ideas, compare practices, and strengthen their expertise through ongoing discussion and collective experience

CBW ConnectFest

ConnectFest is CBW’s refreshed annual convention — designed to strengthen our community, elevate expertise, and bring Washington’s community bankers together for meaningful connection and high‑quality education

Employee Benefits

Northwest Financial Associations Trust

Through the Northwest Financial Associations Trust, CBW members can access medical, dental, life, and disability insurance programs tailored for financial‑services employers. The Trust is an Association Health Plan focused on high‑quality, affordable benefits