COLUMBUS, OH (April 2026) – Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) today announced that Encova Insurance has joined its Independent Market Solutions (IMS) platform as the newest carrier partner, further expanding personal lines market access opportunities for independent agents across Ohio.
Headquartered in Columbus, Encova brings a strong regional presence and a reputation for underwriting discipline and agency partnership. Its addition marks the ninth carrier in the IMS program and the third Ohio-domiciled partner, reinforcing OIA’s commitment to strengthening in-state carrier relationships and bolstering the independent agency channel.
Launched in early 2026, IMS was designed to provide member agencies with access to quality carrier markets when direct appointments may be difficult to secure due to production thresholds, shifting market conditions, or other reasons. Encova’s participation enhances that mission by offering agencies a pathway to engage with a highly respected carrier while building the production and performance history needed for long-term growth.
“Encova’s addition is a meaningful step forward for our members,” said Dustin Mahrt, Program Manager. “Their commitment to agency partnerships and deep understanding of the regional market make them an ideal fit for IMS and a valuable option for agencies looking to expand their carrier relationships.”
Through IMS, agencies can access Encova with more attainable entry requirements, allowing them to write business, develop underwriting experience, and establish a track record. Over time, this model positions agencies to potentially transition into a direct appointment, creating both immediate opportunity and a clear path toward independence.
Encova joins a curated group of carrier partners within IMS, including Western Reserve Group, The Hanover, Progressive, Chubb, Travelers and Indiana Farmers Insurance. Together, this growing portfolio provides OIA members with increased flexibility to meet client needs, diversify their books of business, and compete more effectively in today’s marketplace.
For real-time access to all the carriers, you can find more information at https://ohioinsuranceagents.com/product-services/market-access-solutions/ or https://www.imsaccess.com/states/ohio/. Reach out to Program Manager Dustin Mahrt at dustin@ohioinsuranceagents.com or at (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).
