Banca Etica is a cooperative bank founded in 1999 with its headquarters in Padua, Italy. Its origins trace back to the late 1980s and early 1990s, when several Italian social and volunteer associations—facing barriers to credit access from traditional banks—sought to establish a financial institution grounded in principles of transparency, democratic participation, and a focus on social and environmental impact. These efforts culminated in the opening of the first branch in Padua on March 8, 1999.
The bank operates in both Italy and Spain, serving over 100,000 customers and counting more than 47,000 cooperative members, predominantly individuals, non-profits, and social enterprises. Banca Etica has consistently prioritized lending to initiatives related to welfare, the social economy, environmental protection, cultural activities, and international cooperation. It distinguishes itself as the only bank in Italy that publishes details of all its loans online, a reflection of its commitment to transparency.
The bank excludes investments in sectors like arms, alcohol, and oil, choosing instead to finance projects in sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and education. For instance, in 2020, Banca Etica launched a call for inclusive educational projects, funding initiatives supporting disadvantaged youth. The organization is a founding member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values and regularly hosts international summits focused on ethical finance.
Governance is democratic: each member has one vote regardless of shareholding. In May 2025, Aldo Soldi was elected president, underscoring the participatory governance model. The institution continues to expand its network and advocacy for ethical finance from its Padua base.