Michael Bontrager

Team Lead at Square Roots Collective

Michael Bontrager is the founder and Team Leader of Square Roots Collective (SRC), an organization dedicated to community development and social impact initiatives.1 3 Here's an overview of his background and work:

Professional Career

Michael Bontrager has had a distinguished career in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors:

Chatham Financial:: In 1991, Bontrager founded Chatham Financial, which he grew into the largest independent financial derivatives advisory services and technology firm.1 2 He served as CEO and chairman for nearly 30 years, building the company from a small startup to a global organization with over 700 employees across 10 offices worldwide.2

Square Roots Collective:: In 2019, Bontrager retired from Chatham Financial to focus on his new venture, Square Roots Collective.1 2 As the founder and Team Leader of SRC, he aims to launch various initiatives under one umbrella with the goal of cultivating a thriving community where everyone can reach their potential.1 3

Education and Background

Bontrager holds a BA in Economics from Wheaton College and an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.1 His upbringing in a Mennonite family in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, has significantly influenced his approach to business and community development.4

Philosophy and Approach

Bontrager's work is characterized by several key principles:

Multiple bottom lines: He focuses on creating purpose-driven organizations that consider social and environmental impact alongside financial performance.1 4
Community focus: SRC's initiatives are primarily centered around Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, where Bontrager and his wife Dot have lived for over 30 years.4
Stewardship: Bontrager views his resources, talents, and influence as tools to serve others rather than for personal accumulation.4
Innovation: He encourages "out-of-the-box" thinking and is willing to take risks on unconventional ideas that could benefit the community.4

Through Square Roots Collective, Bontrager continues to apply his business experience and passion for community development to create positive change in Kennett Square and beyond.