ICBA Payments, a subsidiary of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), has announced the renewal of its four-decade partnership with Visa, aiming to strengthen community financial institutions with modern payment tools and expanded digital transaction capabilities.
The long-standing collaboration, which began with ICBA Payments’ founding in 1985, positions the organization as a principal member for both credit and debit card programs with Visa. This partnership has historically provided community banks with secure and scalable payment solutions designed to enhance their competitive standing in the market.
Under the renewed agreement, ICBA Payments will continue its sponsored card programs with Visa. These programs feature contactless-enabled cards, tokenization for digital wallets, and access to Visa’s global network. The partnership also includes comprehensive program support, covering cardholder communications, marketing, and other operational services.
A key expansion of the partnership involves providing streamlined access to Visa Direct, Visa’s real-time money movement platform. This integration is designed to enable community banks to offer faster, more flexible payment experiences for their consumer, small business, and commercial clients.
Jacob Eisen, CEO of ICBA Payments, stated, “This renewed collaboration reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the delivery of leading-edge payment products and services that align with the mission and model of community banking.” Bill Dobbins, senior vice president and head of U.S. enablement at Visa, added, “Our longstanding partnership with ICBA Payments is grounded in our shared values and a deep belief in the power of local communities. Together, we’re helping community banks deliver modern, secure financial experiences that drive economic opportunity and strengthen the neighborhoods they serve.” Visa currently serves over 80% of ICBA member banks.
ICBA Payments, which manages payment solutions for community banks, holds a significant market position in the U.S. It ranks as the 10th largest debit card issuer and the 29th largest credit card issuer. The subsidiary represents over $43 billion in credit and debit sales, with $913.4 million in outstandings and 10 million cards issued, underscoring its role in supporting the nation’s community banking sector.
