Baker Hill, a leading provider of cloud-based lending solutions, launched its new Santa Barbara, Calif., office and flagship Innovation Center, developed in partnership with Montecito Bank & Trust. This milestone marks a new chapter in co-innovation, reinforcing Baker Hill’s commitment to building the future of banking with its partners; not just for them.
The launch follows a pivotal moment in 2024 when Montecito Bank & Trust recognized an opportunity to reimagine its technology strategy — not as a stop gap, but as a launchpad for long-term community growth. Baker Hill stepped in, transforming a period of interruption into a model of collaboration. What began as a critical support effort grew into a strategic alliance, cementing Baker Hill’s West Coast footprint through co-creation.
"This Innovation Center isn’t just a milestone for Baker Hill — it’s a declaration of how we show up for the communities we serve. By creating space for co-innovation, we’re proving that when fintechs and financial institutions work hand-in-hand, we don’t just build better technology, we build stronger communities. This is how we empower the future of community banking, together." --Andy Ivankovich, Chairman & CEO of Baker Hill
Purpose-built to accelerate collaboration and product development, the Santa Barbara Innovation Center features a technology-forward design, flexible meeting and training areas, and a community-inspired atmosphere. As part of this spirit, Baker Hill dedicated the Hal Conklin Collaboration Suite in memory of the late Mayor Hal Conklin, whose enduring commitment to civic leadership and innovation inspired generations. The space is a physical manifestation of Baker Hill’s belief that true innovation is powered by shared vision, deep partnership and a testament to our ongoing commitment to the communities we serve.
The Innovation Center is not just a destination — it’s a movement. The Santa Barbara hub is open to all California-based financial institutions for team collaboration, strategic planning, and training. For Baker Hill’s West Coast clients, it offers an immersive space to sharpen strategy, co-create solutions, and grow with intention.
"Having an Innovation Center just down the road is more than symbolic; it’s transformative. When fintech leaders and community banks share the same space, ideas move faster, relationships deepen, and innovation becomes tangible. This partnership is a blueprint for what’s possible in the future of banking."--Janet Garufis, Chairman and CEO of Montecito Bank & Trust
Baker Hill is planning additional Innovation Centers in markets like San Antonio, Atlanta and Orlando in 2026 and 2027 — continuing its mission to elevate community banking coast to coast.