Local bank invests in small business growth with $7,500 donation to DeWitt County Development Council
April 9, 2026
Clinton, IL, April 9, 2026 - First National Bank and Trust Company is proud to support the DeWitt County Development Council (DCDC) with a $7,500 contribution to further its mission of fostering economic growth and job creation in DeWitt County.
The donation will directly support DCDC’s initiatives, operations and community microgrant program, which provides critical resources to help local businesses expand and thrive. The funding also includes a special $2,500 FNBT awards as part of DCDC’s microgrant program this spring.
The goal of the microgrant program is to help small businesses grow and succeed in DeWitt County by supporting projects that enhance daily operations. The total amount awarded across all applicants will be $15,000 or more and subject to final availability from partner organizations within DeWitt County. Applications are now open until May 4, 2026 and all projects must be completed by November 15, 2026.
DCDC plays a vital role in attracting, retaining, and growing businesses in DeWitt County. While the organization’s primary focus is on local commerce, its impact extends far beyond business owners while positively affecting employees and the broader community. Through strategic initiatives, workforce development programs, and tailored support for both new and existing businesses, DCDC continues to strengthen the local economy.
“We focus efforts on finding solutions, encouraging ideas, and building relationships to open business doors. These efforts have really paid off with exciting business and employment growth within DeWitt County," said Curt Homann, Director of DCDC. "Initiatives such as the microgrant program put real money into the hands of small businesses that are the heart of our communities. We are thankful to First National Bank & Trust Company for their commitment and support of economic activities within Clinton and DeWitt County.”
First National Bank and Trust Company believes community success is built on the strength of its small businesses and takes pride in long‑standing partnerships that support sustainable growth. Since 2017, FNBT has contributed more than $50,000 to DCDC, reinforcing its continued commitment to local economic development.
About First National Bank & Trust Company: First National Bank & Trust Company is a community bank with locations in Clinton, Illinois, and Arcadia and Whitehall, Wisconsin. Committed to community prosperity, the bank was chartered in 1872 under the name DeWitt County National Bank and became part of TS Banking Group in 2017. With $385 million in assets, First National Bank & Trust Company reinvests 10% of its pretax profits back into the community. For more information, visit firstnbtc.com.