Community Reinvestment Act - Programs

Some of the organizations and programs Associated has successfully partnered with in its community development lending efforts include the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, the USDA Rural Development – Guaranteed Rural Housing Program, the Small Business Administration, and the Chicago Federal Home Loan Bank.

In addition, Associated has worked hard to develop new and creative mortgage programs such as Associated’s Community Affordable Real Estate (CARE) product. Associated has also collaborated with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to help all customers achieve the goal of home ownership.

To contact a local representative regarding Associated's CRA efforts, click here.

Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority
For the sixth consecutive year, Associated Bank has been named one of the top lenders in Wisconsin by the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA). In 2007, Associated Bank wrote 530 WHEDA mortgages, totaling more than $55 million in lending to first-time homebuyers in Wisconsin. In presenting an award to Associated, WHEDA Executive Director Antonio Riley said, “WHEDA’s accomplishments in single family lending can be credited to our partnership with Associated and their dedicated loan officers.” 2007 marked the third straight year that Associated Bank eclipsed the 500 or more WHEDA mortgages written plateau.

Back to Top

USDA Rural Development – Guaranteed Rural Housing program
The United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development recently presented the Gold Level Million Dollar Lender Award to Associated Bank, highlighting our unique mortgage lending partnership with the agency.

The Gold Level Million Dollar Lender Award recognizes lenders who have made a significant contribution in assisting Wisconsin rural residents achieve their dream of homeownership, in partnership with USDA Rural Development and their Guaranteed Rural Housing program. Rural Development and lenders across Wisconsin are committed to providing the financial resources to assist families obtain homeownership. By partnering together we are able to leverage our resources increasing homeownership in rural areas and improving the quality of life for residents.

Back to Top

Community Affordable Real Estate (CARE)
If you thought you could never own a home, think again. Associated Bank is pleased to offer the Community Affordable Real Estate (CARE) Mortgage Program, our most affordable and community-oriented mortgage program. CARE lives up to its name by being our most flexible mortgage program yet. CARE from Associated Bank can help if you have struggled to save enough money for a down payment, and can assist you in getting into your own home sooner. With CARE, Associated Bank is breaking down barriers and making dreams of home ownership come true. With the CARE Mortgage Program, Associated Bank is able to do the right thing for people who need a helping hand. To apply for a CARE mortgage or to get more information, simply call 1-866-LEND-ABC (536-3222)

Back to Top

Associated partners with Chicago Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB)
As a member of the FHLB we have access to financing tools to promote affordable housing and economic development. The FHLB and Associated believe that improving the housing and economic opportunities available to individuals creates an environment for families and communities to prosper.

Associated is an active participant in the FHLB Downpayment Plus® (DPP®) Program. The DPP® Program provides grants to families with modest incomes to assist them with the down payment on a home and with related closing costs.

Many community nonprofit organizations that provide mortgage financing directly to home buyers such as, Habitat for Humanity, partner with Associated to apply for down payment assistance grants under the Downpayment Plus Advantage Program that is available through the FHLB.

Back to Top

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Lender
Associated Bank specializes in SBA guaranteed loans. We are one of the premier SBA lenders in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois. Associated Bank authorized more SBA 7(a) loans than any other Bank in the State of Wisconsin during SBA's Fiscal Year 2007.

The U.S. Small Business Administration assists America's small businesses through a number of programs. The most commonly utilized program is the SBA 7(a) Guaranteed Loan Program. Under this program, guaranteed loans are made to business borrowers by lenders, such as Associated Bank, but are guaranteed by the SBA with funds appropriated by Congress.

Associated Bank holds both Preferred and Express Lender designations with the SBA. These designations allow Associated Bank to underwrite SBA loans quickly and efficiently; thus making the application process as seamless and efficient as our commercial loans.

CRA Contact Information

Back to Top