Stronger Together: How PIA National Delivered for Independent Agents in 2025

As independent agents continue navigating an evolving insurance landscape, PIA National stepped up in 2025—delivering stronger support, smarter tools, and a louder advocacy voice for our members.

This year, our work was shaped not only by strategic priorities, but by what I learned firsthand traveling across the country and listening to our Affiliates. From the welcoming spirit I found to the professionalism, incredible young agent communities to the strong commitment to connection and education, one message was clear: PIA is strongest when we stay rooted in relationships, aligned in purpose, and committed to helping agents thrive.

That spirit guided our focus on four critical initiatives:

1.    Achieving financial growth and stability

2.    Enhancing the CPIA designation

3.    Strengthening relationships with our Affiliates

4.    Advancing membership growth nationwide

And we delivered.

We launched new corporate sponsorship and advertising efforts, expanded exclusive member programs, and secured new revenue streams that position PIA for long-term strength and innovation. This included a strategic partnership with Rainbow MGA—offering an exclusive profit-sharing opportunity that empowers independent agents in the small-business market.

Across the country, Affiliates reinforced the need for modern education and strong professional development. Guided by those insights, we continued refining the CPIA designation with updated curriculum and new learning methods to match today’s realities and tomorrow’s opportunities.

We also heard—everywhere we went—how critical the next generation is to our industry’s future. This year, we launched the Ascending Leaders Council, bringing together rising leaders whose perspectives are already influencing new programming, member engagement, and resources for new agents.

And our Winning@Work research, developed in partnership with young agents and the National Carrier Council, delivered fresh insight into what next-generation professionals want most from their agencies—from flexibility and technology to culture and career development.

Technology leadership was another major theme we heard from Affiliates nationwide. In response, the PIA Technology Council created and delivered a first-of-its-kind AI workshop—offered virtually and in person—giving agents practical tools to safely and effectively integrate AI into their operations. The Council’s work is helping agencies become more innovative, efficient, and competitive.

In September, 150 leaders joined us for the PIA Leadership Conference and Advocacy Day. We walked the halls of Capitol Hill, advocating together for the needs of independent agents. And it made an impact.

This year, we secured major advocacy wins: the permanent extension of the 20% Qualified Business Income deduction, the reinstatement of inflation adjustments for crop agents, and protection against federal overreach on AI regulation—ensuring states remain in control and consumers remain protected.

This year, we made progress. But most importantly, we strengthened our connections—with members, Affiliates, and each other. And as I saw first-hand among my visits to Affiliates, insurance is a business of relationships, trust, and innovation. That’s the foundation we are building on.

To the members of our councils—Carrier Council, Technology Council, Ascending Leaders Council—thank you for your partnership, your insight, and your commitment to strengthening PIA and the independent agency system. And to all our members, partners, and leaders: thank you for your engagement and for believing in the power of professional independent agents.

The work continues—and the future looks bright.

Happy holidays, and here’s to an exciting, innovative year ahead for insurance agents everywhere.