Keystone Access for CLI Agencies
Why Keystone Access Matters for CLI Agencies
Access to Keystone gives CLI member agencies enterprise-level leverage while preserving their independence.
Through CLI’s Master Franchise relationship, member agencies gain immediate access to specialized expertise and infrastructure that would typically require significant internal investment or scale to build independently. This includes support across claims management, employee benefits, financial services, human resources, and risk management—all delivered by experienced professionals who understand the agency business.
For agencies considering CLI, this access changes what’s possible in the market.
How Keystone Creates Leverage in the Market
Enterprise-level capabilities, without the enterprise overhead.
01
Compete Like a Much Larger Organization
With Keystone behind them, CLI agencies can offer clients the depth, resources, and sophistication often associated with national or regional firms—without adding overhead or losing autonomy. This allows agencies to confidently pursue larger accounts, more complex risks, and higher-value relationships.
02
Win and Retain Better Clients
Keystone support strengthens an agency’s value proposition beyond insurance placement. Members can bring proactive solutions to the table—such as risk mitigation strategies, claims advocacy, and HR guidance—that deepen client relationships and increase retention.
03
Reduce Risk and Protect the Agency
From compliance and HR guidance to claims and risk management support, Keystone helps agencies avoid costly missteps. This added layer of expertise allows agency owners to focus on growth, knowing they have trusted specialists supporting their decisions.
04
Scale Without Adding Headcount
Hiring in-house specialists across these disciplines is expensive and often impractical for independent agencies. Keystone allows CLI members to scale services on demand, providing expert-level support exactly when needed—without long-term staffing commitments.
05
Strengthen Sales Conversations
For prospects and current members alike, Keystone access becomes a powerful differentiator in sales discussions. Agencies can position themselves as part of a broader, national ecosystem—bringing added credibility, confidence, and value to every client conversation.
A Strategic Advantage, Not Just a Resource
Keystone is not simply an add-on service—it is a strategic extension of the CLI agency. It enhances operational strength, sharpens competitive positioning, and gives agencies the leverage they need to grow smarter, faster, and more sustainably. This is one of the ways CLI fulfills its mission: empowering independent agencies with the tools, community, and freedom to reach their next peak.
Where CLI Select + Keystone Delivers More
More expertise. More leverage.
Built to help independent agencies compete and win—without giving up independence.
| Capability | Independent Agency | Other Insurance Networks | CLI Member Agency with Keystone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claims Support | Relies on carrier processes and internal followup | Limited claims guidance; often reactive or referral-based | Direct access to dedicated claims expertise and advocacy through Keystone |
| Risk Management | Minimal tools or informal guidance | General resources or templated tools | Proactive, consultative risk management backed by national expertise |
| Employee Benefits | Handled externally on a case-by-case basis | Access to preferred vendors, often transactional | Integrated benefits expertise aligned with agency and client needs |
| Human Resources Support | Managed internally or outsourced ad hoc | HR hotlines or basic compliance resources | On-demand HR guidance from experienced professionals |
| Financial Services | Separate relationships with little coordination | Limited access or optional add-ons | Coordinated financial services support tied to agency growth |
| Depth of Expertise | Dependent on internal staff experience | Shared resources with limited personalization | Direct access to subject-matter experts across key disciplines |
| Ability to Compete for Larger Accounts | May face scale and credibility constraints | Improved positioning, but resource depth varies | Competes confidently with regional and national firms |
| Client Value Proposition | Primarily insurance placement | Broader offering, often loosely integrated | Advisory-driven, full-service client experience |
| Operational Overhead | Requires hiring or multiple vendors to expand services | Fees plus additional third-party costs | Scales services without adding headcount or fixed costs |
| Level of Independence | Full independence, limited leverage | Often trade autonomy for access or volume requirements | Full independence with enterprise-level support |
| Market Perception | Local standalone agency | Member of a network | Independent agency backed by a national optimization partner |
