The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) is marking its 35th anniversary, recognizing more than three decades of relationship-building, professional development, and collaboration within California’s wholesale insurance market.
Founded in the late 1980s, CIWA emerged during a period of significant regulatory change in California following the passage of Proposition 103 and the introduction of elected insurance commissioners. The association was formally incorporated in 1991 under the leadership of industry professionals Marv Uritz, Norm Levine, and Dave Anderson. At the time, managing general agents and wholesale intermediaries faced increasing regulatory and political complexity, along with a growing need for a unified forum focused on education, advocacy, and connection.
From its beginning, CIWA positioned itself as both a professional resource and a community-driven organization. Its stated mission has centered on creating meaningful opportunities for engagement while addressing the legislative and educational needs specific to California’s wholesale insurance sector.
Over the past 35 years, CIWA’s leadership structure has played a central role in sustaining that mission. More than 25 past presidents and 85 board members have collectively contributed hundreds of volunteer hours to the association. Their service helped establish the operational framework and programming that continue to support members today.
Yana Connors, current president of CIWA, said the association’s longevity reflects the value of its member relationships. Connors noted that CIWA emphasizes personal interaction, peer learning, and mentorship as core elements of its approach. She added that fostering an environment where professionals can connect and support future leaders has remained consistent since the association’s earliest days.
CIWA’s membership is currently at an all-time high. This growth aligns with broader expansion in the surplus lines market. According to AM Best, the surplus lines sector reached nearly $130 billion in direct premiums in 2024, one year after exceeding $100 billion. The increase underscores the growing role of wholesale professionals in placing complex and non-admitted risks and reflects continued demand for specialized market expertise.
In response to changes within the industry, CIWA has expanded its programming to address evolving professional needs. Recent initiatives include CIWA Future, which focuses on supporting emerging professionals; CIWA Women, which aims to empower women working in wholesale and carrier distribution; and the Insurtech Committee, which provides a forum for discussions on technology and innovation within the excess and surplus lines space.
These initiatives operate alongside CIWA’s established events, which remain a cornerstone of the association’s engagement strategy. The events are designed to encourage direct interaction among wholesalers, carriers, and service partners in structured and accessible settings.
As part of its anniversary year, CIWA is inviting members and industry partners to attend its Summer Forum, scheduled for July 19 to 21, 2026, in Monterey, California. The event will serve as a milestone celebration and an opportunity for continued networking and education within the wholesale insurance community.
CIWA is a registered 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization. Its stated vision is to advance education and advocacy for wholesale insurance professionals and their affiliated business partners. Additional information about the association and Summer Forum 2026 is available through CIWA’s website.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.