Michael Banks

The Promise

The Promise represents the first explicit Philadelphia-based public and private partnership dedicated to combating poverty within the city. Its focus lies in stabilizing and enhancing income for Philadelphians through vetting and funding investments that increase access to existing public benefits and eliminate barriers hindering access to high-quality jobs and career launch opportunities.

Prior to joining The Promise, Banks held the position of Managing Director of Employment, Opportunity, and Entrepreneurship at United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern Jersey. There, he spearheaded the Built By Philly initiative aimed at addressing inequity for BIPOC entrepreneurs. With a bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, Banks previously led the African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Influential Leaders in the Region and one of the 40 Most Talented Leaders under 40 by the Philadelphia Business Journal.