News

Review Your Agency Information Before Membership Renewal

Membership renewal season is just around the corner. To help ensure your agency's renewal invoice is accurate, please review your annual revenue and employee count in your IIANC member profile and make any necessary updates by Wednesday, July 15. Only agency administrators can edit this information. If your profile is already up to date, no further action is needed. If you're unable to make changes, please contact your agency's IIANC administrator or email membership@iianc.com for assistance.

Free Fire Safety Resources for Your Community

Fire Prevention Week is a great opportunity to give back while increasing your agency's visibility in the community. Sign up for the 2026 Operation EDITH program to receive free fire safety coloring books, stickers, and volunteer resources to distribute to local schools, fire departments, and community events. IIANC covers the cost of the materials and shipping, and you can even add your agency's branding before sharing them.

Aubie Knight Named Recipient of Prestigious James M. Lowry Award by AENC

CARY, NC – June 22, 2026 – The Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina (IIANC) announced today that Chief Executive Officer Aubie Knight has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 James M. Lowry Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a chief executive officer by the Association Executives of North Carolina (AENC). Named in honor of the late James J. Lowry, Jr., a longtime leader within AENC and the North Carolina association community, the award recognizes outstanding leadership and achievement in association management. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated excellence in organizational leadership, service to the association profession, and meaningful engagement in civic and community affairs. Knight has served as CEO of IIANC since 2014 and has spent more than twenty-five years in association management. During his tenure, IIANC has experienced significant growth, doubling organizational revenue, expanding its team by more than sixty percent, and earning recognition as North Carolina's number one mid-sized employer in three of the past four years. Under Knight's leadership, IIANC has become nationally recognized for its innovative approach to member value and industry advancement. Initiatives such as InsurAcademy, investments in artificial intelligence solutions, and the launch of 101 Weston Labs, the first insurtech accelerator dedicated to the independent agency channel, have positioned the organization as a leader in helping insurance agencies adapt and thrive amid rapid technological change. Knight has also maintained a strong commitment to the broader association profession. He previously served as Chair of the Georgia Society of Association Executives, served on the AENC Board of Directors, regularly contributes to AENC educational programming, facilitates CEO roundtables, and actively encourages professional engagement among IIANC staff. Beyond the association community, Knight has championed efforts supporting public safety, education, workforce development, and disaster recovery initiatives throughout North Carolina. "It is truly an honor to receive recognition from peers within the association community," Knight said. "Associations exist to create meaningful value for their members, and this recognition is really a reflection of the incredible team at IIANC, the engagement of our volunteer leaders, and a membership that continually challenges us to innovate, improve, and think differently about what an association can and should be." IIANC Board Chair, Don Stroud, praised Knight's leadership and impact. "Aubie has helped transform IIANC into an organization that is widely viewed as a model for innovation, culture, and member engagement," said Stroud. "This recognition by AENC reflects not only his vision, but also his unwavering commitment to ensuring that independent insurance agencies in North Carolina have the tools, resources, and strategic support they need to prosper in an increasingly complex environment." The James M. Lowry Award will be presented during the Association Executives of North Carolina Annual Meeting on July 28, 2026. About IIANC The Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina is the state's leading trade association for independent insurance agencies and industry professionals. IIANC exists to help its members operate more successful businesses through advocacy, education, technology, innovation, and strategic partnerships that position agencies for long-term prosperity.

Your Path to Licensing Just Got More Flexible

Recent changes to North Carolina licensing requirements have opened the door to more flexible ways to prepare for the Property & Casualty licensing exam. InsurAcademy now offers three self-paced online exam preparation packages - Success Essentials, Success Advantage, and Success Guarantee - designed specifically for North Carolina learners. Prefer a traditional classroom experience? Live virtual and in-person pre-licensing classes are still available. Explore the option that best fits your schedule, learning style, and career goals.

IIANC Named #1 Small Employer on 2026 Best Employers List by Business NC Magazine!

The Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina (IIANC) has been named the #1 Small Employer in North Carolina and the #2 Best Employer Overall on the 2026 Business North Carolina Best Employers list. This marks the sixth time IIANC has earned a spot on the prestigious list and the third time receiving the top ranking among small employers. IIANC also congratulates member agencies Callahan & Rice Insurance Group, Johnson Insurance Services, and Granite Insurance for being recognized among North Carolina’s top workplaces.

North Carolina Young Agents Participate in National GIVE Week

National Young Agents GIVE Week is happening June 1–10, and IIANC is encouraging North Carolina Young Agents and agencies to participate through a simple but meaningful “Pop Tabs for a Purpose” campaign supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities. GIVE Week is a nationwide initiative that encourages young agents to give back to their local communities through service projects, donations, and outreach efforts. Ronald McDonald House Charities collects aluminum pop tabs from soda and other beverage cans as part of a fundraiser that helps support families staying at Ronald McDonald Houses during a child’s medical treatment. Agencies are encouraged to start collecting pop tabs around their office now, then mail them to the IIANC office. IIANC will send one combined package to the Big “I” on behalf of North Carolina Young Agents during GIVE Week. Agencies can also turn it into a fun office competition to see who can collect the most tabs.

Sponsorships Now Open for the Chairman’s Cup Golf Tournament

Sponsorships are now open for IIANC’s brand-new Chairman’s Cup Golf Tournament on June 8th at MacGregor Downs Country Club in Cary. Connect with North Carolina’s independent insurance community while gaining premium visibility for your agency or company and supporting the IIANC Action Fund. Join us for a kickoff reception on June 7th followed by a day of golf, networking, and industry connection on the course.

Add Value Beyond Your Role with iNAP

iNAP (New Agent Power Hour) is back on May 18th at 2 PM with a conversation designed for young agents (age 41 and under or with less than five years of industry experience). This month’s session, Working Outside Your Job Description & Providing Value, explores how to stand out in a small agency, contribute beyond your title, and leverage tools like Kolbe assessments to better understand your strengths. Join us for a 45-minute session focused on practical growth, peer connection, and real-world insights.

Exclusive iLEAD Tour: NC State Nuclear Reactor

Join iLEAD on April 24th for a one-of-a-kind Risk Management Tour at NC State’s Nuclear Reactor Facility. This exclusive experience is designed for young agents (age 41 and under or with less than five years of industry experience) and offers a behind-the-scenes look at complex risk environments while earning 2 hours of CE credit. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, and see risk management in action.

What You Need to Know About E&S Policy Endorsements

E&S policies offer flexibility, but that flexibility can come with hidden complexity. In this new article, we break down how endorsements, especially non-standard or manuscript endorsements, can significantly alter coverage, introduce new obligations, and impact how claims are handled. Understanding these details is critical to protecting both your clients and your agency.

Final Call: IA-MBA + $100 Off Opportunity

Last chance to join the IA-MBA Program kicking off April 8th. This 10-week, fully virtual program (filed for 16 hours of General CE) delivers practical leadership and financial training designed for both current and aspiring agency leaders. Built for busy professionals, IA-MBA combines real-world application with peer collaboration to help you strengthen your team, improve performance, and grow your bottom line. Use code IAMBA100 at checkout for $100 off registration!

AI in Your Agency: A Practical Deep Dive

AI is everywhere - but what does it actually mean for your agency? Join the IIANC Technology Committee on March 24th from 11am-12pm for a practical discussion on how AI is being used today, including real-world applications and key terminology every insurance professional should understand. Hear insights from Landon Bentham and Jack Wingate as they break down AI in a way that’s clear, practical, and relevant.

2026 Health Insurance Symposiums Kick Off March 24th

IIANC and NABIP-NC members are invited to attend one of five 2026 Health Insurance Symposiums, produced collaboratively by the two organizations, happening across North Carolina this March and April. Each event offers three FREE hours of CE credit from 2:00–5:00 PM, followed by a legislative reception at 5:00 PM where attendees can connect directly with members of the NC General Assembly. It’s a unique opportunity to gain timely education while engaging in meaningful advocacy conversations that impact life and health agents statewide. The first symposium kicks off on March 24th in Raleigh, with additional events in Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, and Wilmington. Sponsored by the iHEAL Collective, these symposiums are designed for agents specializing in Health, Employee Benefits, Annuities, and Life, and are limited to 50 attendees per location, so early registration is encouraged.

FREE Post-Primary Election Results Webinar: March 4th

As part of IIANC’s 2026 Election Update program, members are invited to attend a complimentary live webinar on Wednesday, March 4th, from 12:00-1:00 PM (ET). Join Chief Advocacy Officer Joe Stewart for a timely recap of the March 3rd Primary Election results - who won, who lost, and what it all means as the momentum builds toward Election Day on November 3rd. Stay informed and prepared with insights that matter to North Carolina’s independent agents.

Big News: Utica and Chubb Join Independent Market Solutions!

IIANC is excited to announce that Utica (Personal Lines) and Chubb (Commercial Lines) have officially joined the Independent Market Solutions (IMS) program. These additions expand market access and bring strong underwriting expertise, giving participating agencies more opportunities to grow their book with financially strong, respected carriers.

Upcoming CE Webinar for Life & Health Agents: February 19th

The iHEAL Collective is IIANC’s new professional community created for agents working in health insurance, employee benefits, annuities, and life insurance. Join us on February 19th from 1:00-4:00 PM for an upcoming CE webinar covering annuities, Social Security, and life insurance - designed to deliver timely insight and practical value for today’s market.

Choosing the Right Business Structure for Your Agency

AgencyFocus’s January article takes a practical look at one of the most important and often overlooked decisions agency owners make: choosing the right business structure. From comparing common entity options to understanding how structure impacts growth, succession, and acquisitions, this piece offers clear, approachable guidance to help agencies plan with confidence for the future.

Important Update: New Registration Process for 2026 CIC, CISR & Ruble Courses

We’re excited to share an update about our long-standing relationship with the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance (formerly 'The National Alliance'). Beginning January 1, 2026, IIANC will offer an even wider range of CIC, CISR, and Ruble programs through an enhanced reseller model, giving you greater flexibility, more course options, subscription choices, and access to innovative new learning tools, including the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance’s AI assistant, AlliBot.

Ready to Level Up? Insurance Growth Academy Returns January 29th

Insurance Growth Academy is a 12-week, producer-focused training offered in partnership with The Sales Collective, designed for insurance professionals ready to elevate performance and build stronger client relationships. Beginning January 29th, the program features six bi-weekly live Zoom sessions focused on practical, modern sales strategies covering prospecting, mindset, process, renewals, and referrals to help you increase premium, close more business, and grow with confidence. The program includes a Sales DNA assessment (a $600 value) and delivers actionable tools you can apply immediately to strengthen your book, your team, and your bottom line.

IA-MBA Returns with Limited-Time Team Discount: Buy 2, Get 1 Free - Save $995!

Designed specifically for independent agency leaders, the IA-MBA is a 10-week, fully virtual program based on an executive-level MBA curriculum. Participants gain practical skills in people leadership, financial management, team alignment, and organizational strategy, plus ongoing access to all course materials long after the program ends. To celebrate the relaunch, we’re offering a Buy 2, Get 1 Free special - an opportunity to save $995 when three members of your team enroll together. This special offer ends January 31, so now is the perfect time to invest in your team’s development and set your organization up for success in 2026.