A note from our CEO recognizing our 20 Year Anniversary

When I founded ConnectOne Bank two decades ago, my goal wasn’t simply to start a bank—it was to create a financial partner that could truly serve those often overlooked in one of the most critical aspects of their lives.

From the very beginning, we believed we could do things differently. The early days were filled with both excitement and uncertainty, but through it all, one thing remained constant: our commitment to building something meaningful—something better.

This belief became the foundation of ConnectOne Bank, inspiring us to redefine what banking could be:

• A place where relationships come before transactions.
• A place where clients and communities are at the heart of every decision.
• A place where team members can thrive, innovate, and make an impact.

Over the past 20 years, this vision has come to life thanks to every single one of you. Some of you have been with us since the very beginning, helping shape the foundation of our success. Others have joined along the way, contributing fresh perspectives and energy to drive us forward. Together, we’ve laid each brick that has shaped what ConnectOne is today.  

Our journey has been defined not just by our financial growth but by the lives we’ve touched. From the small business owner who expanded their dream with our support, the entrepreneur who launched a bold vision thanks to a loan we believed in and of course, the developer who reimagined a property and transformed a community.

These are the stories that define ConnectOne Bank. They are a testament to our shared purpose and dedication.

To our shareholders: Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in a vision that prioritizes people alongside profitability. Your trust has allowed us to grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional value.

To our employees: Your passion, creativity, and dedication have been the driving force behind everything we’ve accomplished. Each client you’ve supported, each innovation you’ve driven, and each relationship you’ve nurtured has shaped who we are today.

To our clients: You are the reason we do what we do. Your trust in us inspires us to keep raising the bar for what banking can be.

As we celebrate this milestone, I thank all of you for the contributions you’ve made to our journey. It is because of you that ConnectOne Bank is a growth story.

Looking ahead, I am more excited than ever about what we will achieve together. The past 20 years have proven that we are a team and a community that can adapt, innovate, and lead. The future holds limitless possibilities, and I’m confident that the best is yet to come.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. Together, we’ve built something truly remarkable. Here’s to the next 20 years…

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With gratitude,