The Iowa State Bank & Trust Story – 90+ Years of Community Commitment
At Iowa State Bank & Trust Company (ISB&T), we believe banking is about more than transactions — it’s about relationships, trust, and helping people thrive.
Since opening our doors on May 19, 1934, we’ve stayed true to our founding purpose: providing rural communities with a locally owned, locally managed financial institution dedicated to their success. Ninety plus years later, we’re proud to still be doing just that with integrity, heart, and deep local roots - serving Southeastern Iowa communities from our three branches.
Built From Resilience
Our story begins during one of America’s most challenging times — the aftermath of the 1933 national bank holiday. Out of uncertainty came opportunity. Two community banks in Fairfield—Iowa State Savings Bank and Iowa Loan and Trust Company — joined forces in 1934 to form Iowa State Bank & Trust Company. That same resilient spirit continues to guide us today along with maintaining a very important standout trait: local ownership. As a C-Corp bank, we are widely held by many shareholders across out local communities. This provides our customers a strong commitment to make fast yet meaningful decisions by listening and understanding their unique needs.
Growing With Our Communities
From helping local businesses grow to supporting community projects like the Fairfield Airport, the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center, and the Cambridge Little Achievers Center, we’ve always believed in giving back. Whether it’s arts, education, housing, or economic development, we proudly invest in the people and places we serve.
And as our communities grow, so do we. With the recent addition of new branches in Ottumwa and Centerville, we’re excited to bring our unique blend of modern banking and personal service to even more Southeast Iowans.
People-First Banking
At ISB&T, we see every customer as an opportunity to build a lasting partnership. We get to know you — your goals, your dreams, your story — so we can offer financial solutions that make sense for your life.
We are proud to offer all the conveniences of digital banking such as mobile deposits, wire requests, remote transfer, ACH origination and MANY MORE, but we never lose sight of what matters most: relationships. We give our customers direct access to decision makers who are focused on custom solutions and not solely on algorithms or credit scores. Because we listen, decisions are based on people, their character, and the value they bring to their communities, employees, and families. It’s banking, redefined.
Our Promise to You
We believe the world still needs banks that are small enough to care, yet big enough to offer powerful technology, innovative products and modern solutions. Our mission is to remain that kind of bank.
Our committed team is guided every day by our core values—our “non-negotiables”:
- Respect and Courtesy for every customer and coworker, always.
- Fairness and Honesty in every decision we make.
- Excellence and Integrity in everything we do.
Looking Ahead
As we look toward the future, one thing remains clear: we’re here to grow with you. Iowa State Bank & Trust is proud to be a community bank with a bold vision — to be a strong, modern institution rooted in trust, driven by values, and inspired by the people we serve.
Together, we grow.