Home insurance firm Hippo’s First Connect Insurance Services, a digital platform for independent agents to provide access to top carriers, has strategically partnered with Hiscox USA, and subsequently hit the 100-carrier and MGA milestone.
Hiscox USA provides same-day coverage for small businesses with $5 million or less in annual revenue, it allows agents to bind General Liability, Personal Liability, Business Owner’s Policy, and Cyber Security coverage.
First Connect has also launched a new Appetite Finder feature, making it easier for agents to match their client’s coverage needs with carrier appetites.
Aviad Pinkovezky, President, First Connect commented, “Our growth is the direct result of our ability to attract a variety of carriers to First Connect and provide independent agents with the optionality they need to build their businesses.
“The value we deliver to agents is even more pronounced in a hard market, with rapid developments across the insurance industry. Appetite Finder addresses those challenges, confirming carrier appetite based on geography and business class without the need for a lengthy quote process.”
The new Appetite Finder checks with multiple carriers to gauge their appetite for a specific risk profile, a complex problem to solve manually due to the dynamic nature of industry changes. The new feature considers both already appointed carriers and new carriers who may be seeking that specific type of business.
Kevin Kerridge, chief Executive Officer, Hiscox USA added, “We partnered with First Connect because they go above and beyond for independent agents, making their lives that much easier with an intuitive experience. We share those same priorities for all of our customers, and champion user-friendly tech solutions for small businesses that simplify, rather than overcomplicate.”
Commercial products have grown increasingly popular among agents navigating a challenging personal lines market. First Connect’s portfolio includes leading commercial carriers like Coterie Insurance.
David McFarland, Chief Executive Officer, Coterie stated, “Since first partnering with First Connect in 2021, they have become a key distribution channel for Coterie, allowing us to reach independent agents working with small and medium-sized business owners. We’ve found a great fit with our instant business insurance solution and First Connect agents across the country.”
