Cearley explains that a malfunctioning sprinkler or a broken-down GPS-guided tractor can translate into immediate financial losses, especially during critical growing periods. Every hour of downtime can affect output and, ultimately, a farmer’s ability to turn a profit. For that reason, Centera Bank pays close attention to how these technological investments fit into its clients’ overall financial picture. While the bank has not yet integrated its internal systems with farm technology, it works to ensure that financing decisions reflect the realities of modern agriculture. By structuring loans that support the purchase, maintenance, and timely repair of essential equipment, Centera Bank helps keep operations running smoothly.This proactive approach provides farmers with the liquidity they need to stay profitable, even in a rapidly advancing and competitive market. FOSTERING FINANCIAL LITERACY Centera Bank thrives where its communities thrive. That’s why it sponsors local events, supports schools, and invests in programs that make life better for residents. “We’ve done a food drive on an annual basis,” Cearley shares.“We are active in and sponsors of our county fairs, livestock sales, 4-H, that type of thing, and very active in our schools.” This involvement includes buying out local high school football and basketball games so that everyone in the community can attend for free. In small towns where school sports are a central gathering point, this gesture fosters a sense of unity and pride. Financial literacy is another area where Centera Bank makes an impact. Rather than use a one-size-fitsall curriculum, the bank tailors its presentations to the needs of individual classrooms. “We rely on the school or the teacher to say, ‘This is what I would like you to talk about,’ and we always have somebody willing and able to do that,” Cearley explains. For younger children, the bank offers a savings account program that introduces them to the concept of interest, compounding, and the value of setting money aside, laying the foundation for lifelong financial habits. 120 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 10
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