Broward Bank of Commerce, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Community bank targeting small to mid-sized businesses based in Ft. Lauderdale held fund raising campaign for 9 months prior to officially launching in February 2009 ( a dismal time in the banking world). Bank needed the support of the FDIC, investors, potential investors, state regulatory agencies, local business community and other influencers to be successful.
Solution:
Polin PR developed multi-faceted media campaign to highlight the bank’s targeted strategy and pull in support for the bank. Stories were placed in media including South Florida Business Journal, Daily Business Review, Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald. Of special note is the taping of a segment soon to air on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric on the bank’s successful launch during the national banking crisis.
Polin PR managed a Grand Opening event for the bank to celebrate the official launch. Polin PR developed accurate lists (targeted businesses, VIP’s and government officials,) designed invitations, and handled all follow-up calls with invitees. Polin PR made all arrangements with caterers, rental companies, name tags, follow-up thank you notes etc… Tours were held with Bank staff stationed at various points to provide specific details of their operations and answer questions. Bank Executives and Senior Staff and Board Members joined the tours so they would be able to mix and mingle with the guests. Polin PR prepared thank you bags for each guest, with Bank information and a commemorative gift. Polin PR also prepared and mailed thank you for attending notes, personally signed by CEO, Keith Costello, to each guest or a sorry you were unable to join us note with the gift to those few guests who were unable to attend.
A bi-monthly events strategy was developed to host a variety of social and business gatherings in the bank facility to introduce targeted audiences to the products and services offered. VIP events included: Insider’s View of the 2009 – 2010 NFL Season with Ronnie Brown, The Perfect Martini Event and Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster?