🔺30 Outstanding Small Businesses of the Year 2025

Our Mission is to Give Independent Agencies the Tools and Guidance They Need to Thrive: Tim Davis, COO of Valley Insurance Agency Alliance

Using our size and stability, we negotiate the highest paid commissions in the industry.

Our Mission is to Give Independent Agencies the Tools and Guidance They Need to Thrive: Tim Davis, COO of Valley Insurance Agency Alliance

Tim Davis SBCS, PWCA, COO, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance

BY SME Business Review

Valley Insurance Agency Alliance, or VIAA, is a network of independent insurance agencies that provides members with carrier partnerships, training, and resources to help grow their businesses. Founded in 2006, VIAA brings together more than 160 agencies across Missouri and southern Illinois, generating over $900 million in written premiums. By joining the alliance, independent agencies gain access to resources, carrier partnerships, and strategic support designed to accelerate growth while maintaining complete control of their own books.

Tim Davis, COO of Valley Insurance Agency Alliance, emphasizes the value of collaboration. “Our mission is to give independent agencies the tools and guidance they need to thrive,” Davis says. “We want to make sure our members can expand their reach, attract top producers, and maximize opportunities without sacrificing ownership of their business.”

Helping Agencies Succeed

VIAA provides members with access to a dedicated Agency Development team that offers hands-on support for both commercial and personal lines. This team helps agencies identify growth opportunities, implement best practices, and optimize workflows. Members also benefit from exclusive training bootcamps, which cover all aspects of insurance operations, from sales techniques to regulatory compliance.

“Our development team works closely with each agency to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to succeed,” Davis explains. “These resources are designed to empower agencies, making it easier to compete and grow in a challenging market.

Connecting Agencies with Top Carriers

A key advantage of joining VIAA is access to over 40 national and regional insurance carriers. This extensive network enables member agencies to offer clients a broader range of products and competitive pricing, giving them a clear edge in the marketplace.

“Connecting our members with trusted carriers ensures they can meet the diverse needs of their clients,” Davis notes. “We work to create relationships that benefit both the agency and the customer, providing more options, better support, and a stronger overall experience.”

Grow Your Agency Independently

VIAA’s model allows agencies to expand quickly while retaining full ownership of their book of business. Members can participate in multiple revenue streams, including five distinct ways to earn income, and take advantage of recruitment programs designed to attract talented producers

“Growth doesn’t have to mean losing control,” Davis says. “Our members can scale their operations and increase profitability while keeping their agency independent. That balance is critical for long-term success and stability.”

Technology and Innovation

Technology is another pillar of VIAA’s approach. Members gain access to advanced tools and platforms that streamline operations, improve customer service, and provide actionable insights for decision-making. From client management systems to reporting and analytics, these resources help agencies operate efficiently and focus on building relationships

“Technology should empower, not overwhelm,” Davis explains. “We provide platforms that help our agencies leverage data, enhance productivity, and deliver a better experience for their clients without adding complexity.”

Building a Strong Community

Beyond resources and technology, VIAA fosters a sense of community among its members. The alliance encourages collaboration, sharing of best practices, and networking opportunities, creating an environment where agencies can learn from one another and grow together.

“Being part of VIAA means you’re never alone,” Davis says. “Members can reach out to peers, share experiences, and learn from each other. That community aspect strengthens every agency, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate successes.”

What’s Next for VIAA

Valley Insurance Agency Alliance continues to expand its network and enhance the support offered to member agencies. By combining access to carriers, advanced technology, professional development, and a strong community, VIAA provides independent agencies with a clear path to growth and sustainability.

“Our goal is to make sure every member agency has what it needs to succeed now and, in the future,” Davis concludes. “We’re proud to support independent agencies, giving them the tools, partnerships, and opportunities to thrive while staying true to their vision and values.”

Tim Davis SBCS, PWCA, COO, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance

VIAA brings together a network of more than 160 independent insurance agencies across Missouri and southern Illinois.