To advocate, educate, and innovate

As we move through another Minnesota fall, we're reminded that the strength of our industry has always come from the people behind it. While technology, market conditions, and business strategies continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: the dedication of independent insurance agents who serve their clients and communities with expertise, integrity, and care. Thank you for all you do.


This month's be Cutting Edge highlights resources designed to help your agency thrive in a changing environment. From our new Minnesota P&C Marketplace Report and the Trusted Choice Evolving Market Toolkit to industry-leading compensation benchmarking and year-end tax planning insights, we remain committed to bringing you timely information that supports better business decisions. 


We're also encouraged by recent research showing that even as AI adoption grows, insurance buyers continue to value the guidance and relationships provided by independent agents. It's a powerful reminder that while technology can enhance our work, your expertise, advocacy, and personal connection remain irreplaceable. 


As always, thank you for your membership, engagement, and trust in Big I Minnesota. We are honored to advocate, educate, and innovate alongside you as we work together to strengthen the future of independent insurance across our state. 


Together, we're not just adapting to change, we're helping shape what's next.

NEW- 2nd Quarter P&C Marketplace Report


Exclusive Big I MN Benefit!


What's happening in Minnesota's insurance marketplace right now? Our latest quarterly report provides a real-time look at premium trends, market growth, top-performing insurers, and emerging opportunities across the state, available exclusively as a member benefit.

 

YOU WILL BE PROMPTED TO LOG IN TO DOWNLOAD THE REPORT


NEW- Evolving Market Toolkit

Use the brand-new toolkit from Trusted Choice to help your agency navigate a changing marketplace... The agencies that are most successful in adapting to changing market conditions are the ones that take decisive action now, while preparing for the next shift.

Why Year-End Tax Planning Matters for Insurance Agency Owners

Don't wait until tax season to find out what your agency owes. Many tax-saving opportunities disappear after December 31. Learn why year-end tax planning can help agency owners reduce surprises, identify savings, and make informed financial decisions before key deadlines pass.


Read more to learn about:

  • Before or After December 31? Why the Timing of Tax Planning Matters
  • What Planning Looks Like
  • Start While the Year Is Still Open


Keeping a Human in the Loop Remains Crucial to Insurance Buyers As They Accept AI Tools


As companies accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, an overwhelming 87% say that having a human insurance agent remains important, according to a new national survey commissioned by Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”)

LeadHERship Summit

What a day! The LeadHERship Summit brought together remarkable women and allies for meaningful conversations, fresh perspectives, and genuine connections. From inspiring speakers to unforgettable moments of laughter and celebration, this year's event reminded us of the power of community and leadership. Check out the highlight video, sponsored by Atlas Insurance Brokers, and another big thank you to all of our amazing event sponsors.

Agency Compensation 360 Is Back - Don't Sit This One Out!

Last year, nearly 1,400 independent agencies contributed more than 15,000 position data points to make Agency Compensation 360 the largest study of its kind. Year 2 is now open. Update your information if you participated last year, or join for the first time and help strengthen the industry's compensation data.

The Agency Compensation Survey is for agency owners and main contacts to complete. Those that complete it, will gain free access to the live reports.

MEMBER BENEFIT HIGHLIGHT:

Big I Members Enjoy Access to Member Exclusive Retirement & Employee Benefits Program

If you currently have a retirement plan or are interested in starting one, Big I Retirement Services can help you chose which plan best meets your needs. We’ve worked with thousands of agencies to help them achieve their retirement goals. 


Big I Employee Benefits is a full suite of group benefits for your agency, that includes group life, short/long term disability, and dental/vision coverage with ongoing enrollment.  


Big I MN’s State National Director, Chad Bjugan from Richfield State Insurance and April Goodin, Big I MN Executive VP & CEO speak to the current Property Insurance Report writers for an update on what is happening in Minnesota.  

 
 
 
 

April Goodin

Big I MN Executive VP

763.235.6475

agoodin@bigimn.org

Michelle Herr

Big I MN Chief Operations Officer

763.235.6476

mherr@bigimn.org

be Cutting Edge is an exclusive Big I MN member benefit. We will be moving historical be Cutting Edge emails to a member only section on our bigimn.org website. You will need to use your login credentials to view historical be Cutting Edge emails. 

Big I MN | 763-235-6460 | yourfriends@bigimn.org | www.bigimn.org