Award Categories

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Canadian Insurance Broker of the Year

This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This recognizes the most outstanding insurance broker in Canada who has best exceled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth.

Having already located the cream of the crop in each region across Canada, the winners in the regional categories will go head-to-head in this category. Only the winners from each of the regions will be considered to The SPG Canada Award for Canadian Insurance Broker of the Year.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in clients, policies written, new business
  • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management reflecting business success
  • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Insurance Broker of the Year (Regional – AB & BC)

This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This recognizes the most outstanding insurance broker in Alberta and British Columbia region who has best exceled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth.


When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in clients, policies written, new business
  • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management reflecting business success
  • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Insurance Broker of the Year (Regional – Eastern)

This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This recognizes the most outstanding insurance broker in the Eastern Canada region who has best exceled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth.)


When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in clients, policies written, new business
  • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management reflecting business success
  • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
Insurance Broker of the Year (Regional – Prairies & Maritimes)

This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This recognizes the most outstanding insurance broker in the Prairies & Maritimes region who has best exceled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in clients, policies written, new business
  • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education and relationship management reflecting business success
  • Exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the use of technology, marketing/branding, and innovation in business strategy
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
The FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Insurance Industry

 This is the highest honour at the Insurance Business Canada Awards.

This award recognizes and celebrates a leading figure who has contributed much to the advancement of the insurance industry in Canada.

Though there are no defined parameters, this award will acknowledge someone with an established history and reputation of distinguished service to the insurance profession and who has exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the sector and own workplace, whilst putting the interests of the industry at the top of their priorities throughout their career.

There are no finalists for this category. Nominations will be evaluated by the shortlisting team. The recipient of this award will be contacted 3-4 weeks before the awards event and will be revealed at the Insurance Business Canada Awards gala. 

The PAL Insurance Brokers Award for Young Achiever of the Year

This award of excellence recognizes the outstanding young insurance broker in the insurance industry who has shown the highest potential for greater leadership and has exceled at pushing the envelope with innovation and growth, garnering industry’s attention and the respect of peers.

To be eligible, nominees must be 40 or younger as of December 31, 2024.

Finalists will be invited to provide supporting documentation for submission to the IBCA judging panel.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Open to any insurance broker under 40
  • YoY growth in # of clients, policies written, new business
  • Overall approach to business development, client service, client education, and relationship management reflecting business success
  • Use of technology, marketing/branding and innovation in business strategy
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifications completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise education, press features, etc.)
The Steamatic Canada Award for Woman of Distinction

This award of excellence goes to the outstanding female trailblazer in the insurance industry whose astounding personal and professional achievements have earned them a place among the industry’s best.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Professional accomplishments in the last five years (business initiatives in which the nominee played a critical role, new business brought to the company, innovative ideas, etc.)
  • Demonstrate promotion, influence and championing of women within the Insurance industry
  • Leadership of professional associations
  • Other relevant accolades and accomplishments (charitable work, accomplishments outside the industry, etc.)
Business Development Manager of the Year

This award recognizes the individual BDM within the insurance space who is pushing the envelope in business development, client service and education, and has demonstrated commitment to brokers and developing knowledge of markets.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in revenue contributions and book of business
  • Client service and strategy to relationship management and new business development
  • Demonstrated success in creating opportunities for growth and providing ideas and support to one’s organization
  • Demonstrated commitment to brokers through education, updates, research, etc.
  • Relevant achievements over the past 12 months (inc. accolades, courses/certifictions completed, speaking engagements, active efforts to raise awareness, press features, etc.)
CEO of the Year

This award goes to the CEO that has demonstrated exceptional leadership over the last 12 months, bringing their organization to a new level of growth and success and stimulating the insurance industry.
Nominees can be a CEO/President/equivalent of any organization, in any facet of the Insurance industry in Canada
Finalists will be invited to provide supporting documentation for submission to the judging panel for winner selection.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • demonstration of vision, leadership and engagement of workforce
  • corporate growth, achievements, recognition, performance and positive financial results reflective of leadership
  • commitment to corporate values (e.g. values, innovation, customer care, knowledge and education)
  • commitment to the insurance industry
  • industry reputation
Underwriter of the Year

This award recognizes the underwriter whose expertise and outstanding service to brokers helps ensure proper coverage is placed efficiently and effectively.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Business achievements, including but not limited to service levels, turnaround times and overall customer service
  • Excellence in risk assessment and risk knowledge
  • Effective application of policy wording, coverage and risk analysis
Insurer Innovation of the Year (Technology)

This award recognises the insurer that has most effectively leveraged technology and digital innovation - including artificial intelligence - to deliver measurable transformation across underwriting, claims, and broker engagement over the past 12–18 months. 

Entries should demonstrate how technology has moved beyond pilot stage to deliver scalable improvements in decision-making, efficiency, and customer or broker outcomes. 

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Demonstrated, measurable impact of technology on underwriting quality, claims outcomes, or operational efficiency
  • Clear articulation of the business need and rationale behind the innovation
  • Innovation in the practical application of AI, data, or automation within underwriting, risk assessment, or claims
  • Evidence of improved broker experience (e.g. speed, transparency, ease of trading) or policyholder outcomes
  • Scalability and level of adoption across the organisation (not limited to pilots or niche use cases)
  • Evidence of ROI, including efficiency gains, loss ratio improvement, or cost reduction
  • Alignment of technology initiatives with broader strategic priorities
  • Demonstration of responsible and compliant use of technology, including ethical AI, data privacy, and regulatory adherence
Life & Health Advisor of the Year
Presented to the life and health insurance advisor in Canada who has demonstrated exceptional client outcomes, business growth, and a commitment to raising the bar for the profession. To be eligible, nominees must be a practising life and health insurance advisor in Canada
 
Criteria
  • Business growth: Year-over-year growth across number of clients, business written, and revenue contributions, demonstrating a consistent and measurable upward trajectory
  • Client service & relationship management: A well-rounded approach to business development, client education, and long-term relationship building, reflecting genuine client advocacy and measurable service excellence
  • Achievements in the past 12 months
    • Industry recognition or awards received
    • Courses and certifications completed
    • Speaking engagements
    • Efforts to advance public financial literacy
    • Press or media features
Judging note
  • Nominees are evaluated holistically — judges look for advisors who not only grow their book of business, but elevate the profession and make a lasting difference for the clients and communities they serve.

ORGANIZATIONAL AWARDS

Life & Health Insurer of the Year

This award of excellence is presented to the outstanding life and health insurance company in Canada providing top-tier life and health insurance products to consumers and businesses with an exemplary level of client service.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Must be an insurer in Canada offering life and health insurance, critical illness and/or disability products
  • Value proposition to clients and business partners and how this has reflected in financial and business success
  • Approach to client service
  • Commitment to product offerings, knowledge and education
  • Relevant accolades and standout achievements over the past 12 months
MGA of the Year

This award of excellence is presented to the MGA that offers superb service to brokers and is consistently proactive in educating brokers on products, while maintaining in-depth knowledge of financial markets and the competitive landscape of all product offerings.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Must be an MGA in Canada
  • Value proposition to clients and business partners and how this has reflected in financial and business success
  • Approach to underwriting responsiveness/turnaround time, premium pricing, range of products, customer service and claims support, technical expertise and product knowledge
  • Client testimonials
  • Relevant accolades and standout achievements over the past year
The Burns & Wilcox Award for Big Brokerage of the Year (100 Staff or More)

This award recognises the best brokerage operation with more than 100 staff (or full-time equivalents) in Canada. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff.

To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Canada.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • YoY growth in # of clients, staff numbers, and business success
  • Level of support provided to brokers
  • Approach to client service and retention
  • Commitment to product knowledge, product offerings and education to business partners
  • Relevant accolades and achievements over the past year
The CNA Canada Award for Excellence in Philanthropy & Community Service

This award recognizes the organization whose outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support over a sustained period of time, beyond normal expectations, has made significant impacts in the receiving causes or communities.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Open to any organization within the insurance space
  • Major philanthropy and community service programs or initiatives over the last 12 months
  • Impact on local, national or international causes or communities
  • Contribution in $ and/or time figures
  • Overall commitment to philanthropy and community service
  • Testimonials from beneficiaries or partners
Brokerage of the Year (Fewer Than 10 Staff)

This award recognizes the best brokerage with fewer than 10 staff in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Canada.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Number of staff (including all brokers writing business, license holders, authorised representatives and support staff) is fewer than 10
  • Client retention
  • Customer service proposition
  • Financial results including total revenue, percentage of new business and growth in client and staff numbers
  • Staff development and retention
  • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement
P&C Insurer of the Year

This award of excellence recognizes the most outstanding property and casualty insurance company in Canada providing top-tier property and casualty insurance products to consumers and businesses with an exemplary level of client service.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Must be an insurer in Canada focused on risks that result in loss to property and possessions
  • Value proposition to clients and business partners and how this has reflected in financial and business success
  • Approach to client service
  • Commitment to product offerings, knowledge and education
  • Relevant accolades and standout achievements over the past 12 months
Brokerage of the Year (10-100 Staff)

This award recognizes the best brokerage with 10-100 staff in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff.

To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Canada.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Client retention
  • Customer service proposition
  • Financial results including total revenue, percentage of new business and growth in client and staff numbers
  • Staff development and retention
  • The business’ value proposition and strategy around stakeholder engagement
Best Claims Management Firm

This award recognizes the service provider in claims that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allows insurance professionals to maximize their business and help clients achieve their goals and who is making a major contribution to general insurance claims in Canada.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Must be a claims service provider
  • Unique value proposition and major strengths reflecting in client success
  • Approach to client service and retention
  • Overall commitment to the insurance industry
Claims Team of the Year – Insurer
This award recognises the best claims team within an insurer operating in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months.
 
When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:
  • Overall customer service proposition
  • Turnaround times
  • Evidence of staff engagement with claimants/business partners to keep them informed and up to date
  • Demonstrated commitment to innovation and continuous improvement to the claims process
  • Examples of a response to an event/issue or multiple claims that went beyond business-as-usual
Claims Team of the Year – MGA
This award recognises the best claims team within an MGA operating in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months.
 
When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:
  • MGA must have delegated authority to be considered
  • Overall customer service proposition
  • Turnaround times
  • Evidence of staff engagement with claimants/business partners to keep them informed and up to date
  • Demonstrated commitment to innovation and continuous improvement to the claims process
  • Examples of a response to an event/issue or multiple claims that went beyond business-as-usual
Best Insurtech Firm

This award recognizes the service provider in insurtech that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allows insurance professionals to maximize their business and help clients achieve their goals.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Must provide an innovative solution/service/platform that services insurers or brokers
  • Unique value proposition and major strengths reflecting in client success
  • Approach to client service and retention
  • Overall commitment to the insurance industry
Cyber Insurer of the Year
This award of excellence is presented to the outstanding Cyber insurance company in Canada providing top-tier cyber insurance products to businesses with an exemplary level of client service.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:
  • Must be an insurer in Canada offering cyber insurance products
  • Broad policy inclusions: Coverage for a wide range of incidents (data breaches, ransomware, DDoS, phishing, social engineering, etc.).
  • Speed and ease of claims processing.
  • Client Support & Services including:
    • Pre-breach services (risk assessments, security training, vulnerability scans).
    • Post-breach services (forensics, legal help, PR management, credit monitoring).
    • Strong customer service and proactive communication.
  • Recognized expertise and market leadership in cyber insurance.
  • Innovation & Technology Integration
  • Client retention rate.
  • Growth in cyber insurance market share
  • Adherence to local/international insurance regulations.
  • Thought Leadership
The Echelon Insurance Award for Digital Innovation in a Brokerage

 This award recognises the brokerage that has most effectively harnessed technology, digital solutions, and artificial intelligence to transform broker operations and enhance client outcomes over the past 12–18 months. 

Entries should demonstrate how digital innovation has improved areas such as placement efficiency, client servicing, data utilisation, and broker productivity - moving beyond adoption to deliver meaningful business impact. 

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Demonstrated impact of digital initiatives on broker productivity, placement speed, or client servicing outcomes
  • Clear articulation of the business challenge or opportunity that drove the technology implementation
  • Integration of digital tools into day-to-day broker workflows (not siloed or experimental use)
  • Innovation in the application of technology, including practical use of AI and automation in a brokerage context
  • Measurable improvements in client experience, retention, or engagement
  • Evidence of ROI, including efficiency gains, revenue impact, or cost optimisation
  • Alignment of digital strategy with broader business objectives and growth plans
  • Demonstration of responsible, secure, and compliant use of technology, including data governance and regulatory considerations
Excellence in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

This award recognizes an organization in the Insurance space that has diversity and inclusion at the heart of its business, providing programs for employees from five groups including women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples and the LGBTI community.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Outline your organization’s overall approach to workplace diversity and inclusion and how this aligns with broader business objectives and values.
  • Outline how your organisation has gone above and beyond to champion diversity, equity and inclusion in and around the workplace specifically within the past 12 months.
  • Share how your organization has taken an innovative approach to DE&I and how this has led to successful outcomes.
Outstanding Customer Experience Award

This award acknowledges insurances companies, offices and independent adjusting firms with a proven track record of providing their clients with superior support. Whether it is providing best-in-class assistance or reducing turnaround times, customer support is essential for client satisfaction.

This award recognizes the industry player that has mastered that service and is number one on all fronts.

When judging this category, the following criteria will be considered:

  • Open to any insurance companies, offices and independent adjustment firms
  • Finalists will be asked to provide details on how they go the extra mile to provide excellent customer support, in all aspects from sales to claims service
  • Criteria for judges include interpersonal communication strategies, telephone and face-to-face service
  • Innovation in the use of technology and within processes including Contact centers, loyalty Management, Chat Bots & Conversation AI