For more than a century, First International Bank & Trust (FIBT) has been built on relationships, trust, and a commitment to helping people thrive. What began in 1910 as a small family-owned community bank in Arnegard, North Dakota, has grown into a full-service financial institution serving communities across Arizona, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Through every chapter of growth, we've remained guided by the same family-owned legacy that started it all.
Since our humble beginnings, FIBT has been owned and operated by the Stenehjems. Beginning with founder Odin Stenehjem and continuing through four generations of leadership, we have remained guided by the same belief that banking is ultimately about people, not transactions.
Over the years, we have adapted to changing technologies, evolving customer needs, and economic uncertainty without losing sight of what matters most: earning trust and building lasting relationships.
From the FIBT Archives
Shortly after our first bank building was constructed in Arnegard, railroad tracks were placed farther away than expected. Odin Stenehjem and others responded by hitching the bank building to a team of horses and pulling it closer to the tracks. It was a practical solution that reflected a mindset still present at FIBT today: Meet people where they are and find a way to serve them better.
To be nationally recognized as a community bank whose innovation and drive for excellence is propelled by the best financial experts with a heart.
Our Vision
Our customers leave feeling like family.
Our Values
Own the Choices You Make
Act Like Your Ride is Waiting
Leave Your Mark on Our Communities
Seek the Sunshine Every Day
Speak Up Respectfully
Make Decisions With Integrity
Learn From Yesterday, Rush for Mastery
Take Pride in Your Work
FIBT is built on a legacy of relationships, community, and trust. What does it mean to Live First? Start here.
Our Legacy in Action
Each year, our annual report highlights the people, performance, and purpose behind FIBT. It offers a closer look at our progress, our community impact, and the relationships that continue to move us forward.
See how our commitment to customers, communities, and relationship banking comes to life each year.
Since 1910, the Stenehjem family has provided steady leadership and long-term perspective, helping FIBT navigate economic cycles, industry changes, and periods of growth while remaining true to our community banking roots.
Today, CEO Peter Stenehjem and the FIBT leadership team continue that legacy by empowering employees, investing in communities, and building meaningful relationships with customers across our footprint.
From L to R: Kristen Stenehjem, S. Peter Stenehjem, Stephen L. Stenehjem, Gretchen Stenehjem, Kira Noll, Erik Stenehjem
Leaving Our Mark
Serving our communities is part of who we are. Through volunteerism and support for local organizations, FIBT employees help strengthen the places we call home.
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