As the insurance industry continues to evolve, the Big "I" is leading the way by investing in cutting-edge technology and fostering innovation through strategic partnerships. These initiatives underscore the association's commitment to supporting the future of the independent agency system and ensuring agents remain competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Through partnerships with Catalyit and 101 Weston Labs, the Big "I" is providing agents access to advanced tools and resources that optimize their operations, enhance customer satisfaction and drive growth.
Catalyit and the Big 'I' Partner to Empower Independent Agents with Technology Solutions
Catalyit, a leading insurance technology hub empowers independent agents with the knowledge and tools to successfully navigate the complexities of selecting, implementing and optimizing technology solutions for their businesses.
“Technology is rapidly changing the insurance industry and independent agents need a trusted resource to guide them through the noise," said Marit Peters, CEO of Catalyit and president of the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas (IIAT). “Our partnership with the Big 'I' amplifies our ability to deliver unparalleled support to agents, ensuring they have the right tools and knowledge to succeed in a competitive market. We're excited to work closely with the Big 'I' to empower agents nationwide."
Catalyit offers agents side-by-side comparisons of modern, efficient solutions and expert guidance on how to leverage them for growth. By simplifying the technology selection process, Catalyit helps agents focus on what matters most—serving clients and growing their business.
“Supporting Catalyit is just one more way we can serve our members in the hard market and beyond, as they seek to find the technology solutions that best suit the needs of their agencies and customers," said Charles Symington, Big “I" president & CEO. “We also welcome the opportunity that this partnership will provide for more collaboration with our state associations, which were instrumental in developing Catalyit."
Big 'I' Partners with 101 Weston Labs to Drive Innovation for Independent Agents
The Big “I" has also recently partnered with 101 Weston Labs, an InsurTech accelerator focused on innovations for independent insurance agents.
The accelerator, which is a project of the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina (IIANC), works with startups that are innovating in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, process automation, cyber liability, quoting and more. The program helps advance their efforts by facilitating a network of agents, advisors and service providers who provide product feedback and operational acumen. The Big “I" partnership will help in furthering these goals.
“We're eager to support new companies striving to help independent agents and brokers thrive," said Charles Symington, Big “I" president & CEO. “It is an investment in InsurTech that will empower our members, and we look forward to collaborating on this with 101 Weston Labs. We appreciate the innovation, leadership and dedication its team brings to advancing the independent agency channel, and we are also grateful for the role IIANC has played in moving this forward."
Investing in Technology Is Investing in the Future
Both partnerships highlight the Big "I"'s dedication to supporting the independent agency channel by investing in technology and innovation. These investments are not just about keeping pace with industry trends—they are about ensuring independent agents continue to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
As many as 63% of independent agents noted improving operational efficiencies a key challenge amid the current market, according to the 2024 Agency Universe Study.
In addition to the resources and connections created through the Agents Council for Technology, by partnering with Catalyit and 101 Weston Labs, the Big "I" is making sure agents have access to the technology and innovations they need to meet these challenges head-on.
For more information about Catalyit, visit catalyit.com, and for details on 101 Weston Labs, visit 101westonlabs.com.