Mayor Emanuel today announced iam bank has named Chicago its global headquarters. Founded by CEO Lee Travers, the currently London-based bank plans to grow to 35 employees in downtown Chicago over the next few months.

“Chicago’s unparalleled access to transportation and talent give growing companies like iam bank the tools they need to thrive,” Mayor Emanuel said. “I welcome iam bank and look forward to seeing them grow right here in their new home in the city of Chicago.”

“Chicago is a wonderful city with a diverse culture,” Lee Travers, CEO of iam said. “It is a hotbed for FinTech start-ups, and here at iam bank we want to find the best talent and build the most innovative products that provide a solution for our customers. Chicago provides us with a great opportunity to grow our business and find the best and most talented employees.”

iam bank is a new bank founded by Lee Travers, an Irish entrepreneur. Travers, who has worked in the FinTech industry for more than 20 years, decided to build iam bank because of his dissatisfaction with the traditional banking system. His objective is for iam to provide a transparent and relevant solution for its members and evolve with them on their journey, giving them the tools and education that they need to be better with their finances.

Today’s announcement follows Mayor Emanuel’s official visits to Berlin, London and Milan. During the visits he has promoted Chicago's companies on a global stage and worked to increase innovation collaboration between the cities, and establish new higher education partnerships. Mayor Emanuel also met with the mayor of each city and discussed ways to strengthen our partnerships. While in London, Mayor Emanuel was joined by a delegation of Chicago companies.

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