Fundamentals
BCF plays a key role in the development of the Canton of Fribourg by actively supporting its economic fabric. One in two SMEs and one third of Fribourg’s inhabitants have a banking relationship with BCF, which also supports the canton and the municipalities in their public duties.
BCF at the service of its canton
Since its foundation in 1892, BCF has served the people of Fribourg and actively contributed to the region’s advancement. Faithful to its local mission, it has gradually developed all the services of a universal bank. Today, its clientele is highly diversified: individuals, SMEs, large companies, public authorities and institutions all benefit from personalised solutions.
BCF is headquartered in Fribourg and has a network of 26 branches across the canton. With total assets of CHF 29.5 billion as at 31 December 2025, it is the leading banking institution in the canton. Its steady growth over more than 30 years is based on solid foundations: the skills, commitment and efficiency of its 602 employees (495 full-time staff).
As a committed player, BCF also supports numerous social, cultural and environmental projects, both internally and in partnership with its customers and partners. In 2025, BCF decided to commit to the collaborative project “Bâti Durable” (sustainable building), led by the Fribourg School of Management (HEG) and the Fribourg School of Engineering and Architecture (HEIA), and supported by the “Nouvelle Politique Régionale” (NPR) (new regional policy) of the Canton of Fribourg. This project offers a strategic approach to transform challenges in the sustainability market into opportunities in the form of profitable business models. The aim is to transition to sustainable building (“Bâti Durable”) by combining the skills of different Fribourg construction companies, architects, engineers and financing providers. BCF has the ambition to play a structural role in the emergence of a profitable and sustainable construction market.
BCF, which has deep roots in its canton, plays a key role in providing jobs and apprenticeships. It also gives preference to local suppliers wherever possible, reinforcing its commitment to the regional economy.
Transparent dialogue
Through regular and in-depth exchanges with its stakeholders, BCF is able to identify the requirements it must meet, monitor emerging trends and define its strengths and areas for improvement. The Bank involves all stakeholders who contribute to value creation or influence its activities in its strategic planning. It informs the authorities and the media primarily through press releases, publications and regulatory reports.
With customers
The proximity and quality of the personal relationships that BCF maintains with its customers are an essential foundation of its business model. The frequency and intensity of exchanges are tailored to the specific needs of each customer segment and the nature of the relationships established.
To access the Bank’s services, customers have a choice of channels (physical counters, cash machines, e-banking, mobile banking). BCF also organises several events every year throughout the canton to promote dialogue with its regional stakeholders. Satisfaction surveys and market studies are also conducted to continuously evaluate and improve the quality of the services offered.
With employees
Employee satisfaction surveys are conducted among BCF staff every year. The ideas and suggestions that emerge from these surveys are then discussed and analysed by the Youth Council (CDJ), made up of employees aged between 25 and 35. The selected proposals are submitted to the Executive Board, which examines them and assesses their development potential. This approach encourages initiative and entrepreneurship within teams.
With investors
There are regular meetings throughout the year with investors who wish to purchase bonds issued by BCF. The subjects covered include all the aspects of sustainability and aim to provide in-depth understanding of the Bank’s CSR strategy. They thus enable investors who are eager to support companies with responsible values and are sensitive to environmental risks to better understand the commitments and specific actions of the Bank.
With the State of Fribourg
Regular, institutionalised dialogue has been established with the State of Fribourg on economic, environmental and social issues. Regular meetings are held with the State Delegate for Sustainable Development, normally at least twice a year.
With suppliers and partners
Suppliers and partners are assessed against procurement criteria when submitting tenders and bids. Dialogue on ESG issues is initiated with each partner to build trust and identify synergies with a view to joint engagement.
With external parties
BCF actively collaborates with the cantonal banks in French-speaking Switzerland and neighbouring regions, such as BEKB, BCVs, BCGE, BCN and BCJ. As a founding member of Carbon Fri, BCF has worked with the foundation since its creation.
Stakeholders (customers, employees, suppliers, representatives of the State and civil society) are informed transparently about the Bank’s CSR actions.
BCF’s values
BCF responsibly meets the needs of its customers in accordance with its values:
Trust
The customer is central to BCF’s values. As a trustworthy partner, the Bank favours transparent, direct and constructive relationships.
Competence
BCF relies on qualified and committed employees. It encourages their continuous training to continually develop their skills.
Efficiency
Efficiency is a key pillar of BCF’s activities, whether in its customer relationships, its products, its processes or its internal organisation. BCF’s governance structure and operational processes promote fast and relevant decision-making.
ESG commitment
BCF’s activities are based on the principles of sustainable development, which include environmental, social and economic dimensions. The Bank takes care to apply the principles of good governance and to place corporate social responsibility at the heart of its strategy.