The Perch Fund

The Perch Fund operates as an investment vehicle dedicated to supporting early-stage banktech companies that address the specific technological needs of community banks. The fund strategically backs founders developing practical tools, infrastructure, and data platforms designed for effective integration and adoption within the community banking sector. Their approach prioritizes solutions built by teams with a deep understanding of banking operations, regulatory compliance, and real-world implementation challenges.

The fund was co-founded by Christian Ruppe and Zack Forbes, who recognized a significant gap in technology offerings for community banks. Ruppe brings a decade of experience across fintech founding, including Monotto, and as a bank Chief Innovation Officer, while Forbes founded ImpactFi Advisors, advocating for innovation tailored to community banking. Their founding insight centered on the belief that meaningful impact comes from solving tangible problems for banks rather than chasing speculative trends.

The Perch Fund's portfolio companies serve community banks, providing them with essential, usable technology. The fund’s overarching vision is to foster the development of companies that become integral to the community banking ecosystem. They aim to cultivate businesses that quietly accrue significant value by delivering highly relevant and scalable solutions that strengthen local economies by empowering their financial institutions.