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Starting An Agency

IIABW is a resource to help people who are interested in owning their own agency.  Here is Starting An Agency.pdf to help you start your own independent agency from scratch. IIABW members who are interested in buying an agency can get many resources on valuation on the Virtual University

The Big I has developed SOAR to introduce you to the essential Big I products, resources and services they need to start or grow their businesses. These programs include agency E & O, tech support, market access, marketing, staffing and training, and other benefits offered through the Big I. For a flyer, click here

If you're successful in buying an agency or creating starting your own, the rewards are considerable, including the ability to call your own shots, a healthy return on investment in the form of owners equity and the satisfaction of being in a business that protects people and their valuables.  For a step-by-step instruction about how to start a business from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Click Here

The following is a short list of critical success factors necessary to be successful: 

Capital: While an independent agency is not capital intensive relative to other industries, you can expect to need approximately $40,000 to $50,000 in start-up capital to pay for things such as office space, equipment and furniture, E&O insurance and marketing; and that doesnt count resources necessary to live on while you build your customer base.

Acces to Markets: You can't sell insurance without access to insurance companies and managing general agents. For property and casualty insurance, most companies are looking for a long-term relationship. Getting an appointment usually requires, among other things, experience in the business, a track record of successful marketing and selling, a marketing territory geographically desirable to the companies and a solid proposed business model.

Sales & Administrative Skills: Some people have great selling skills and can make great insurance producers. Other people are great at administration and service. Starting an agency from scratch will require both sets of skills until you get large enough to hire others.

Technical Expertise: Customers are placing their risk management needs in your hands, therefore you need to understand the products you're selling. Depending on the lines of business you intend to offer, there are scores of different policy forms and coverage implications. Add to that the importance of understanding the risk management process itself, and you have a very knowledge-intensive profession.


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