COLUMBUS, OH (April 2026) – The Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) today announced that Encova Insurance and The Hanover Insurance Group have joined its Independent Market Solutions (IMS) platform, further strengthening market access opportunities for independent insurance agencies across Ohio. Their addition expands both personal and commercial lines options for OIA members, helping agencies better compete and serve clients in a challenging market environment.
Encova Insurance, headquartered in Columbus, brings a strong regional presence and a deep commitment to Ohio’s independent agency community. As an Ohio-domiciled carrier, Encova’s participation reinforces OIA’s focus on strengthening in-state partnerships while providing members with reliable, accessible market solutions. Encova’s underwriting discipline and collaborative agency approach make it a valuable addition to IMS, particularly for agents seeking attainable entry into quality personal lines markets.
The Hanover Insurance Group joins IMS as a nationally recognized commercial lines carrier, known for its broad appetite, underwriting expertise, and longstanding dedication to the independent agency channel. Through IMS, OIA members gain access to The Hanover’s flexible, account-based commercial solutions, supporting a wide range of risks from small businesses to more complex middle-market accounts. Available coverages include business owner’s policies, commercial auto, general liability, property, umbrella, and a variety of specialty solutions.
Launched in early 2026, IMS was designed to help member agencies access quality carrier markets when direct appointments may be difficult to secure due to production thresholds or shifting market conditions. By offering access with more attainable entry requirements, IMS allows agencies to write business, build underwriting experience, and develop a performance track record—creating both immediate opportunity and a potential pathway to future direct appointments.
“Encova and The Hanover each bring unique strengths that directly support the growth of Ohio’s independent agencies,” said Dustin Mahrt, Program Manager for IMS. “Encova’s Ohio-based leadership and commitment to agency partnership, combined with Hanover’s depth in commercial lines, create meaningful new opportunities for our members through IMS.”
With the addition of Encova and The Hanover, IMS continues to build momentum as a curated portfolio of carrier partners designed to increase flexibility, expand placement options, and strengthen the independent agency system across Ohio.
For real-time access to all IMS carrier partners, visit https://ohioinsuranceagents.com/product-services/market-access-solutions/ or https://www.imsaccess.com/states/ohio/. For more information, contact Dustin Mahrt at dustin@ohioinsuranceagents.com or (614) 552-3087.
About the Author:
Dustin is Company Partners Manager here at OIA & considers himself an industry “lifer” with 20 years of industry experience. Upon graduating in 2003 from Ohio University with a finance degree, Dustin started off in sales at his best friend’s Dad’s captive agency. He has underwritten & managed territories for Buckeye Insurance Group (Piqua, OH) & has worked with carriers to recruit agents into the industry. This is Dustin’s 2nd stint @ OIA, the 1st stint being the pre-Big “I” merger at PIA on the E&O team. In between stints, he helped State Auto’s Product team implement their digital Commercial Auto product in their 33 operating states. He brings a passion for our industry & has achieved the API (Associate in Personal Insurance) designation from the American Institute For Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (The Institutes).
