2008
350
$57,000
$25,000
$160,000
No
Brightway Insurance is redefining the insurance franchise landscape in the United States with its innovative "You Sell, We Service" model, empowering entrepreneurs to build profitable, scalable, and sustainable businesses. Since its inception in 2008, Brightway has grown into one of the nation's largest privately-owned property/casualty insurance distribution companies, boasting over 350 agencies across 35 states and managing more than $1.5 billion in annualized written premiums .
The company's unique approach allows franchisees to focus on sales and client relationships while Brightway handles back-end operations, including policy servicing, claims, and renewals. This model not only reduces overhead costs but also enhances operational efficiency, enabling franchisees to achieve higher profit margins and faster growth.
Brightway's commitment to innovation is evident in its introduction of a performance-based franchise model, rewarding agency owners with higher commission shares as their businesses scale. This forward-thinking approach has garnered recognition, with Brightway being named the only insurance franchise on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2024 list of Fastest-Growing Franchises .
Proven Business Model: Brightway's "You Sell, We Service" model has been refined over years, offering a streamlined path to profitability.
Residual Income: Franchisees benefit from recurring revenue streams, providing financial stability and long-term wealth-building opportunities.
Comprehensive Support: Brightway offers extensive training, marketing, and operational support, ensuring franchisees have the tools and resources needed for success.
Scalability: The performance-based model incentivizes growth, allowing franchisees to increase their commission share as their agency expands.
Industry Recognition: Brightway's rapid growth and innovative approach have earned it accolades and a strong reputation in the insurance industry.
Established Year: 2008
Franchise Units: Over 350 agencies across 35 states.
Founders: Brothers David and Michael Miller, who envisioned a franchise model that empowers independent agents and delivers exceptional value to consumers .
Company History: Founded in Jacksonville, Florida, Brightway began franchising in 2008 and has since become a leader in the insurance distribution sector.
Ownership: Privately owned, Brightway maintains a strong commitment to its franchisees and customers.
Market Presence in the USA: Brightway operates in 35 states, with a significant presence in both urban and suburban markets.
Industry Category: Insurance – Property & Casualty
Brightway Insurance is designed to give franchisees comprehensive support, ensuring they can successfully launch, operate, and grow their insurance agency. Their support spans pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing assistance.
Site Selection & Setup: Brightway helps franchisees identify the best location for their agency based on local market potential. They provide guidance on lease negotiation and office layout design to optimize client interactions.
Business Plan Development: Assistance in preparing a detailed business plan, including financial projections and marketing strategies.
Licensing Guidance: Support in understanding and obtaining required state insurance licenses for the franchise and its designated agency principal.
Back-Office Management: Brightway handles most administrative tasks such as policy processing, renewals, claims follow-up, and customer service, allowing franchisees to focus on sales and client acquisition.
Technology & Tools: Franchisees get access to Brightway’s proprietary software for managing clients, policies, and commissions. This includes dashboards for tracking performance metrics, scheduling, and lead management.
Operational Guidance: Continuous support for workflow optimization, staffing decisions, and day-to-day agency management.
National Marketing Campaigns: Brightway runs brand-level campaigns to build awareness and drive leads.
Local Marketing Assistance: Franchisees receive help with local advertising strategies, social media campaigns, and community outreach to attract customers.
Promotional Materials: Access to professionally designed brochures, business cards, and digital content to enhance credibility and brand visibility.
Comprehensive Initial Training: Covers sales techniques, insurance products, customer service, and business management. Franchisees learn how to effectively sell and manage insurance policies.
Designated Agency Principal (DAP) Training: Ensures the licensed principal is fully prepared to operate according to state regulations and company standards.
Continuous Learning: Franchisees have access to ongoing webinars, workshops, and training sessions covering market trends, compliance updates, and advanced sales strategies.
Dedicated Franchise Support Team: Brightway provides a team to help with operational, technical, and marketing challenges.
Peer Networking: Franchisees can connect with other Brightway franchise owners to share insights, best practices, and success strategies.
Performance Optimization: Guidance on improving sales, retention, and profitability with data-driven insights and consulting.
Brightway Insurance is designed for motivated entrepreneurs who want to own and operate their own insurance agency with the backing of a proven business model. The ideal franchisee combines business acumen, dedication, and a passion for customer service.
Self-Motivated: The franchisee should be driven to grow a business independently while leveraging Brightway’s support.
Growth-Oriented: Eager to scale the agency and increase market share, taking advantage of Brightway’s performance-based commission model.
Problem-Solver: Able to adapt to challenges in sales, staffing, and market competition.
Sales Experience (Helpful but Not Required): Experience in sales, business development, or client relationship management is a plus.
Management Skills: Ability to hire, train, and lead a team effectively.
Financial Acumen: Capable of managing budgets, cash flow, and operating expenses.
Customer Service Oriented: Committed to helping clients find the right insurance solutions and providing excellent service.
Community-Minded: Interested in building strong local relationships and networking within the community.
Integrity-Driven: Trustworthiness is critical in the insurance business to gain client confidence and referrals.
Financial Resources: Minimum liquid capital requirement of $50,000 and a net worth of $150,000.
Commitment to Initial Investment: Willing to invest $57,000–$160,000 (depending on location and model) for startup costs, infrastructure, and working capital.
Flexible on Geography: Brightway operates in 35 states, so franchisees should be open to locating in areas with high insurance market potential.
Urban/Suburban Focus: Locations with strong population density and economic activity are ideal for maximizing growth and profitability.
Designated Agency Principal (DAP): Each agency must have a DAP who is licensed in property and casualty insurance in the state of operation. Brightway provides guidance to help franchisees or their appointed DAP obtain required licenses.
Compliance Awareness: Willingness to follow Brightway’s franchise system rules, insurance regulations, and ethical standards.
| Financial Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $57,000 – $160,000 (varies by location and agency model) |
| Minimum Investment Required | $10,000 upfront (with financing options available) |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 (potential fee forgiveness based on performance milestones) |
| Royalty Fee | 8% of gross revenue |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross revenue |
| Franchise Units (Current) | Over 350 agencies across 35 states |
| Infrastructure Cost | Varies by office size and location; includes office setup, IT systems, furniture |
| Working Capital | Sufficient to cover initial 3–6 months of operations |
| Expected ROI | Varies by market and performance; designed to become profitable within 1–2 years |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 18–24 months |
| Revenue Streams | - Commissions from new insurance policies - Renewals - Cross-selling insurance products |
| Net Worth Requirement | $150,000 |
| Liquid Capital Requirement | $50,000 |
💡 Notes:
These figures are estimates; actual costs may vary depending on state regulations, office location, and agency model.
Brightway’s franchise model emphasizes low overhead and operational efficiency, which can help achieve faster profitability compared to other insurance franchises.
Franchisees also have access to SBA financing for approved candidates, helping reduce upfront capital strain.
