Calling all innovators: The '2019 PIA InsureTech Showcase' needs you

InsurTech innovators may apply for a limited number of speaking slots. If interested, contact insuretech@pianet.org.

The event will be moderated by Bill Hartnett. He spent 18 years with Microsoft heading up its vertical marketing for the banking, insurance and capital markets sectors. (Photo: PIA)

The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) has announced a showcase for InsurTech innovators whose ideas can specifically advantage independent insurance agents. The “2019 PIA InsureTech Showcase” will take place on April 2, 2019, in Crystal City, Va.

PIA has issued a call for InsurTech presenters for this showcase whose ideas can be embraced by insurance agents to enhance their competitiveness as part of the independent agency distribution system. InsurTech innovators may apply for a limited number of speaking slots. If interested, contact insuretech@pianet.org.

Related: Growth in 2019: Five common themes of successful independent insurance agents

Helping independent agents succeed

The event will be moderated by Bill Hartnett. He spent 18 years with Microsoft heading up its vertical marketing for the banking, insurance and capital markets sectors. Before that, he was an agent and broker who ran a family agency which is still running in Rhode Island, as well as a PIA national director and board member from Rhode Island.

“The initial perception was that InsurTech represented a threat to independent agents, but the evolution is to then focus on the power and strength of the agent channel. PIA will help provide a platform for their launch,” PIA National President Keith A. Savino said in a press release. “This event will provide a unique opportunity for innovators to showcase practical applications for emerging technologies that can specifically help independent agents succeed, not focused on disruption but empowerment.”

Related: PIANY opens applications for Bernard I. Kozel Memorial Scholarship