Citizens Bank Earns Dual National Honors for Philanthropy and Impact

PROVIDENCE, RI – May 11, 2026 – Citizens Financial Group has solidified its reputation as a leader in corporate responsibility, securing two significant national accolades that recognize its deep-seated commitment to community investment and economic empowerment. The Providence-based financial institution was named to Newsweek’s prestigious America’s Most Charitable Companies 2026 list, while also receiving the top honor from the Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) for its innovative support of small businesses.

These dual recognitions highlight a corporate strategy that increasingly intertwines financial services with tangible social impact. The bank ranked 15th out of 300 U.S. companies on the Newsweek list, a distinction that also made it the highest-ranked organization based in New England.

“This recognition reflects the depth and consistency of our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Bruce Van Saun, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Citizens, in a statement. “From supporting small businesses and local economies to investing time, talent, and resources alongside our nonprofit partners, our colleagues play a critical role in helping communities thrive and grow.”

Deconstructing the Accolades

The national awards are not merely ceremonial; they are the result of rigorous, data-driven evaluation. The Newsweek ranking, compiled in partnership with the data firm Statista, employs a comprehensive methodology to assess corporate philanthropy. The process involves a multi-layered analysis that includes a vast survey of approximately 18,000 U.S. residents to gauge public perception, which accounts for 50% of the final score. Another 30% is derived from meticulous research into Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) found in corporate social responsibility reports. The final 20% is based on social listening, tracking online and media conversations to measure public sentiment.

Securing a top-15 spot on this list places Citizens among an elite group of companies demonstrating a verifiable and widely recognized commitment to giving back. The high ranking suggests the bank’s efforts resonate not only on paper but also in the public consciousness.

Separately, the Consumer Bankers Association honored Citizens with the 2026 Joe Belew Award. This award, named for the CBA’s former president and community development champion, recognizes innovative banking programs that address pressing social needs. For 2026, the award’s focus was on “Initiatives Supporting Main Street Businesses, Local Economies & Community Growth.” Citizens’ winning program, the Small Business Economic Opportunity Fund (EOF), was lauded by the CBA as a prime example of how retail banking can expand access to capital and resources for underserved entrepreneurs.

Fueling Main Street: The Economic Opportunity Fund

The Joe Belew Award specifically spotlights the tangible impact of the Citizens Small Business Economic Opportunity Fund (EOF). This is not a simple grant program but a mentorship-driven initiative designed to build sustainable success for entrepreneurs. The program has invested more than $82 million across 13 markets, combining financial education, hands-on mentorship, technical assistance, and pitch-based learning experiences that culminate in capital awards.

The EOF’s structure aims to move beyond a one-time cash infusion, instead fostering long-term partnerships that help entrepreneurs build skills, confidence, and durable growth strategies. By working through trusted nonprofit partners, the program ensures its resources are deployed effectively at the local level, reaching the businesses that form the backbone of Main Street economies.

Success stories emerging from these initiatives provide a human face to the program's impressive investment figures. Beneficiaries like Danielle Hughes, founder of Detroit’s The Pose Experience mobile selfie boutique, and Char Mills of Modern Maison Creole cooking, have been recognized with Citizens Small Business Community Champion Awards. These entrepreneurs exemplify the program's goal of turning passion into viable, thriving businesses that enrich their local communities.

A Broader Legacy of Community Investment

These recent awards are built upon a foundation of consistent, long-term community engagement. A key indicator of this commitment is the bank's Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating. Since its IPO in 2014, Citizens has consistently earned an “Outstanding” rating from federal regulators—the highest possible designation. An “Outstanding” rating signifies an exemplary record of meeting the credit needs of all communities served, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.

This is achieved through substantial and sustained activity. During a recent evaluation period, for example, the bank extended over $4 billion in community development loans and investments and more than $3.8 billion to small businesses, many in economically vulnerable areas. This regulatory seal of approval provides independent validation of the bank's commitment to equitable access to financial resources.

The company’s ethos of giving back is also deeply embedded in its employee culture. In 2025 alone, Citizens colleagues logged more than 265,000 volunteer hours, with over 1,000 employees serving on the boards of non-profit organizations. This direct contribution of time and expertise amplifies the impact of the bank's financial contributions.

Looking ahead, the institution continues to focus its philanthropic efforts on critical areas including workforce development, food security, affordable housing, and financial literacy. A recent $2.85 million investment in financial literacy initiatives will fund 135 nonprofit organizations across 23 states, demonstrating a continued focus on providing individuals and business owners with the foundational skills needed for economic stability and growth.