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A M E R I C A A T 2 5 0 | H A R T F O R D B U S I N E S S J O U R N A L 15 A s America approaches its 250th anniversary, it is an opportunity to reflect on the values that continue to shape our nation's success: oppor- tunity, adaptability, innovation and community. These principles have enabled generations of entrepre- neurs to identify needs, close gaps and build ventures that create jobs, strengthen local economies and expand opportunities to make a positive impact on people's lives. This spirit is what drove the founding of M&T Bank in Buffalo, NY in 1865 and continues to shape how we serve our customers and communities to this day. At that time, M&T's founders recognized the increasing demand for financial support across expanding manufac- turing and trade sectors along the Erie Canal. To address these challenges, they established a bank dedicated to providing reliable services, such as commercial loans and financial products, to help businesses grow and individuals pursue financial stability. What began as a community-focused institution serving Buffalo's industrial economy has grown into one of the nation's largest banks. Today, M&T serves a wide range of customers - from small businesses and families to healthcare systems, municipalities and large-scale commercial developments. Our goal is to provide products and build lasting relationships that help customers navigate every stage of growth and opportunity. The once dominant companies and industries of yesteryear are no longer the same, and as such, financial institutions must be adaptable. Remaining agile enables us to meet the evolving needs of industries and communities. This philosophy has shaped how we support our customers and ensure that we can remain at their side during moments of disruption. Our long-term success requires disciplined growth, careful risk management and deep community relationships. We are deliberate in how we expand and remain guided by the belief that we need to look under the hood and beyond the economic headlines to examine what's happening on the ground in our regions. This mindset guides our work in Connecticut today. Across the state, M&T provides financial resources, ex- pertise and partnerships that support economic growth. We are proud to be recognized as Connecticut's number one SBA lender, a distinction that reminds us that resilience, opportunity, innovation, community and entrepreneurship remain strong. Just as we did in our earliest days, helping small businesses grow, create jobs and strengthen local economies is central to who we are. Our commitment extends beyond lending. We support affordable housing initiatives, nonprofit organizations, youth development programs and financial literacy ef- forts designed to expand access and opportunity. We do so because helping individuals achieve their dreams and make a difference in people's lives creates a prosperous and thriving community. We are equally proud to support the institutions and ex- periences that define Connecticut, including partnerships with the UConn Huskies and the Hartford Athletic. Our community impact in Connecticut alone exceeds $5 million through grants, sponsorships, employee giving and M&T's matching program, as well as employee volunteerism, all contributing to the vitality of our communities. Whether helping first-time homebuyers, supporting housing initiatives or expanding access to financial ser- vices, these efforts help strengthen the foundation for long-term success. As America looks toward its next 250 years, we remain optimistic about Connecticut's future and the future of our country. Our strength has always come from our ability to adapt to changing markets, new competitors and new regulations. It means answering the phone and being ready to step in and support others when asked. Through this, we've learned that long-term stability matters more than growth for the sake of growth. Banking isn't about rapid expansion, but about providing a steady, reliable foundation for the communities we serve. At M&T, we're proud to continue that work and remain committed to being a dependable partner communities and customers can count on today, tomorrow and for generations to come - just as we did in 1856. Michael Weinstock, Regional President, Northern CT, M&T Bank Building Strong Communities for the Future AMERICA AT 250 • LETTERS FROM CONNECTICUT'S BUSINESS LEADERS