Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance recently announced the 2024 Agent for the Future Award winners. Four Big “I" members were recognized for bold approaches to solving problems, willingness to be first adopters of innovative technology and commitment to giving back to their communities and their employees.

“Each year, the Agent for the Future Awards recognize some of the industry's most forward-thinking independent agencies and individuals," says Luke Bills, president of independent agent distribution at Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance. “This year's group of winners truly embody the Agent for the Future spirit of innovation, continuous improvement and data centricity."

“While each winner is being celebrated for what makes them unique—from their adoption of transformational technology to excellence in employee experience and stewardship in their communities—they are all pushing the industry forward," Bills says. 

Here are the four Big “I" members that won awards: 

Outstanding Small Agency: Fort Collins Insurance. Over the past two years, Fort Collins Insurance has revamped its operations to make the insurance process smoother for staff and clients alike. The agency updated its standard operating procedures and invested heavily in technology, including artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools to improve customer experience, analyze renewals, compare quotes and hone marketing strategies. And, to strengthen community ties, the agency launched the Referral for a Cause program, with proceeds going to a different nonprofit each quarter. 

Digital Innovator: Metzger Insurance Agency. Metzger Insurance Agency's subsidiaries, AInsure and CORA, integrate AI and blockchain technology to make insurance more accessible. AInsure's dashboard serves as a hub for agents and carriers to enhance operational efficiency and transparency. The team is also developing AI systems to manage tasks for agents, customer service representatives, underwriters and claims adjusters to enable faster response times, improve accuracy and reduce overheads.

Outstanding Female Agency Principal: Mónica Adwani, Breezy Seguros. Adwani, CEO and managing partner of Breezy Seguros, which recently rebranded from BRZ Insurance, focuses on serving Hispanic communities across New England. She developed a custom agency management system (AMS) and customer relationship manager (CRM) platform that's available in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Under her leadership, Breezy Seguros has achieved 200%-300% year-over-year growth in sales and a 90% retention rate. Adwani champions diversity, equity and inclusion, using Breezy's InsurTech platforms to educate the next generation of Latinos interested in working in insurance, as well as establishing a women's mentorship network.

Emerging Leader: Michael Venezio, Northeastern Insurance. Since founding Northeastern Insurance with his brother in 2013, Venezio has grown the agency to $36 million in premium with 30 employees and 12,000 customers. Under his leadership, the agency has achieved an average annual growth of $3 million, earning top spots on Albany's Fastest Growing Small Business and Largest Property and Casualty Insurance Agencies lists. Venezio is driving plans to double staff and premium within three years by investing in employee development, expanding departments and fostering internal promotions. He has also championed community involvement, launching initiatives like the annual Agency Volunteer Week to support local charities, exemplifying his commitment to both business success and social impact.

“As Big 'I' members, these winners are also engaged in the broader independent agent community and serve as an inspiration for us all," Bills added. “On behalf of everyone at Liberty Mutual and Safeco Insurance, congratulations to the 2024 Agent for the Future Award winners." 

AnneMarie McPherson Spears is IA news editor.