Academy Bank Named One of America’s Most Innovative Companies

News Summary

Academy Bank, a community bank based in Kansas City, has been recognized by FORTUNE magazine as one of America’s Most Innovative Companies for 2025. This recognition comes after being featured in the same list in 2023. The award highlights advancements in innovation, and Academy Bank is among only ten companies from Kansas and Missouri to earn this accolade. Their focus on technology, including AI and automation, underlines their commitment to improving customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Kansas City, Missouri – Academy Bank, a full-service community bank based in Kansas City, has been recognized by FORTUNE magazine as one of America’s Most Innovative Companies for 2025. This honor marks the second time in three years that the bank has received such recognition, having previously been included in the same list in 2023.

The FORTUNE list highlights 300 companies across the United States that have demonstrated significant advancements in innovation, transforming their industries. Academy Bank stands out as one of only ten companies from Kansas and Missouri to feature in the 2025 rankings.

Paul Holewinski, CEO of Academy Bank, noted the importance of innovative solutions in driving both client success and improving internal operations. This accolade reflects the collective efforts of the bank’s associates who are committed to finding better ways to serve their communities.

Criteria and Impact of the Recognition

The recognition is not merely a symbolic accolade; it is based on a rigorous evaluation process conducted in collaboration with the global research firm Statista. Companies are assessed in three equally weighted categories, ensuring a fair comparison of innovation across various sectors.

The 300 honorees list represents a significant economic footprint, collectively generating over $12.6 trillion in revenue, with a median revenue of $22 billion. This underscores the large-scale impact that innovative practices can have on the overall economy and serves as a benchmark for success in various industries.

Commitment to Innovation

Academy Bank’s approach to innovation is reflected in its ongoing investments in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The bank employs robotic process automation to develop more efficient banking solutions that enhance the overall customer experience. This focus on technology aims to provide clients with superior banking experiences characterized by convenience, security, and personal service.

Recent Accolades and Achievements

In addition to being named one of America’s Most Innovative Companies, Academy Bank has garnered several other accolades. The bank received the 2025 HCM Distinction Award for Talent at Work from ADP and recognition as one of Fortune’s Best Business CDs. Furthermore, it was named a Top Mortgage Lender by the Kansas City Business Journal. A testament to its commitment to digital innovation, Academy Bank also won a Silver Stevie Award in the 2024 American Business Awards for its website redesign.

Bank Overview

Academy Bank operates with over $2.9 billion in assets and maintains more than 75 banking centers in multiple states, including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri. Its wide range of financial solutions includes commercial and business banking, treasury management, and mortgage services.

Academy Bank is privately owned by Dickinson Financial Corporation, which has assets totaling $4.3 billion and is situated in downtown Kansas City. The bank’s sister institution, Armed Forces Bank, serves military and civilian clients globally, operating numerous on-base locations throughout the United States.

This recent recognition by FORTUNE magazine exemplifies Academy Bank’s dedication to innovation, highlighting its role in shaping the future of community banking while underscoring the bank’s commitment to serving its customers effectively.

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Additional Resources

• PR Newswire: Academy Bank Named One of America’s Most Innovative Companies
• Wikipedia: Academy Bank
• Fox 4 KC: FNBO Announces Acquisition of Country Club Bank
• Google Search: First National Bank of Omaha
• PR Newswire: First Federal Bank of Kansas City Selects Jack Henry for Growth and Innovation
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Banking
• GlobeNewswire: Resource Download
• Google News: Academy Bank
• The Oklahoman: Citizens Bank CEO Jill Castilla on Innovation

Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER

The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.