Council of Insurance Agents Added Three Member Firms
The trade group expanded its roster in the third quarter of 2026 to address commercial insurance market needs.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Insurance
The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers has welcomed three new member firms to its national network in Q3 2026. This expansion aims to fill existing gaps in the commercial insurance sector.
Why it matters
These firms were selected based on their proven ability to solve complex client problems and contribute to industry innovation. Their integration supports the organization's broader efforts to advance commercial insurance programming.
The new members include Bold Penguin, which partners with over 40 carriers, and Cogent International, a broker operating since 1986. Del Rio Group also joined, bringing over 30 years of environmental risk experience.
The players
The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers
This Washington-based trade organization represents a network of commercial insurance agencies and brokerage firms.
McKinsey & Company
This global management consulting firm provides strategic advice to businesses and has recently expanded its investment in the Council Partners program.
Bold Penguin
This insurance technology company operates in all 50 states and specializes in streamlining commercial insurance processes.
Cogent International
This firm operates as a Lloyd's Broker and manages specialized insurance risks on a global scale.
Del Rio Group
This firm focuses on environmental risk solutions and has been active in the insurance industry for over three decades.
The details
The addition of these firms coincides with McKinsey & Company elevating its status to a Platinum partner within the Council Partners program. These partnerships provide essential capital to fund organizational innovation and member-focused initiatives.
Timeline
Cogent International became a Lloyd's Broker in 1986.
Bold Penguin was founded in 2016.
Three new firms joined The Council during Q3 2026.
The Council announced the new memberships on September 30, 2026.
The 113th annual Insurance Leadership Forum takes place later this week.
Market Dynamics
The influx of new members reflects an ongoing consolidation of expertise within the commercial insurance space to meet evolving regulatory and risk demands. This activity aligns with the broader strategy typically showcased at the 113th Insurance Leadership Forum.
Increased investment in professional programming may lead to higher-quality risk management tools and services for commercial clients. Business owners should watch for potential shifts in service options as these new firms integrate into the broader council network.
The takeaway
The expansion of the Council network highlights a shift toward integrating specialized technology and niche risk expertise into standard brokerage models. Professionals in the field should monitor how these new partnerships influence commercial coverage availability and underwriting standards.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the industry at the Insurance section.
