Introduction

The stories in this edition of The RISE Report point to a common theme: risk is becoming more connected and operational in middle-market businesses. At the same time, many organizations still lack clear visibility into the factors driving their long-term total cost of risk.

That disconnect shows up in ways like:

Workers’ compensation programs that haven’t been strategically reviewed in years
Cyber exposures creating operational vulnerabilities beyond IT alone
Healthcare costs continuing to pressure both budgets and employee retention

The data reinforces how quickly the environment is changing:

5.8%

increase in commercial auto premiums, marking 59 consecutive quarters of increases

72%

of employers say employees are having a harder time affording benefits than they were 2 years ago

88%

of breaches involving

small organizations

include a form of ransomware

$10.2M

is the new average cost of a data breach in the United States, marking an all-time high

The trends and real-world insights in our Summer RISE Report highlight how business leaders can make smarter, data-driven decisions that strengthen performance and position their organizations more strategically for what comes next.

Insurance Market Insights

RELATIONSHIPS

The First 48 Hours of a Tenant Claim

Colorado's changing legal environment is increasing litigation against property owners, making proactive risk management more important than ever. Discover why standardized communication, documentation, and response protocols can help reduce claim severity, improve incident handling, and protect against long term exposure.

INNOVATION

Three Risk Trends Middle-Market Leaders Can't Ignore in 2026

While property premiums declined, commercial auto increased 5.8% for the 59th consecutive quarter, and 72% of employers report employees are struggling to afford benefits, reinforcing the need for a broader view of organizational risk.

STRATEGY

Cyber Risk and the Mid-Market: A Structural Change in Targeting

Ransomware appeared in 88% of breaches involving smaller businesses, while the average U.S. data breach reached $10.2 million in 2025. We explore what business leaders should evaluate in today's evolving cyber insurance market.

EXCELLENCE

What Most Workers' Compensation Programs Are Missing

Learn how one Colorado contractor reduced annual premiums from $150,000 to approximately $65,000 while improving its experience modification factor from 1.52 to 0.65 through a proactive risk management strategy.

RELATIONSHIPS

The First 48 Hours of a Tenant Claim

Tenant claims are becoming more common and more expensive, making a proactive response process essential for property owners and managers. Many disputes are influenced not just by the incident itself, but by how quickly and effectively the situation is handled afterward. Clear procedures for communication, documentation, vendor coordination, and incident escalation can help reduce the risk of litigation. Maintaining detailed records such as maintenance requests, inspections, photos, and repair timelines provides important protection when addressing claims. Consistent communication with residents and thoughtful coordination with legal and insurance advisors can help manage issues effectively while protecting the long term stability of the property and insurance program.

INNOVATION

Three Risk Trends Middle-Market Leaders Can't Ignore in 2026

Businesses are facing a changing risk environment in 2026, with challenges extending beyond traditional insurance concerns. While some areas of the commercial insurance market are showing signs of improvement, certain industries and exposures continue to experience pressure, especially those involving commercial auto, claims trends, and operational risks. Rising healthcare costs are also becoming a larger workforce issue as employers balance controlling expenses with maintaining competitive employee benefits. At the same time, cyber threats and climate related risks are creating new challenges that require more proactive planning. Organizations that take a strategic approach by using data, reviewing exposures, and focusing on long term risk management are better positioned to protect their operations and financial stability.

STRATEGY

Cyber Risk and the Mid-Market: A Structural Change in Targeting

Cyber risks are becoming a growing concern for middle market businesses as cybercriminals increasingly target organizations that may have valuable data and operations but fewer cybersecurity resources. Ransomware, third party vulnerabilities, and data breaches can create significant financial impacts beyond the initial attack, including business interruptions, legal costs, recovery expenses, and reputational damage. As cyber insurance requirements continue to evolve, businesses should regularly review their coverage to address changing exposures such as vendor risks, business interruption, and policy exclusions. Taking proactive steps like improving security systems, employee training, vendor management, and incident response planning can help organizations better prepare for and respond to cyber threats.

EXCELLENCE

What Most Workers' Compensation Programs Are Missing

Workers' compensation should be managed as an ongoing risk management strategy rather than simply renewing coverage each year. Regularly reviewing employee classification codes, experience modification rates, deductible structures, and claims data can help businesses identify costly inefficiencies and reduce long term expenses. Looking beyond annual premiums to evaluate the total cost of risk, including claims, lost productivity, and future premium impacts, allows organizations to make informed decisions that improve employee recovery, strengthen financial performance, and create a more effective workers' compensation program.

Celebrating Our Presidents' Club Winners

Our Presidents’ Club celebration is always one of the year's highlights, an opportunity to recognize the people whose hard work, relationships, and commitment continue to shape CCIG’s culture and success.

We’re proud to celebrate this year’s winners and grateful for the impact each of them makes across the organization and for our clients every day.

Morgan Mahoney, Commercial Lines P&C Advisor of the Year + MVP

Morgan brought exceptional energy, execution, and momentum throughout the year, consistently making an impact across both client relationships and internal collaboration. Known for always showing up with a positive attitude and a strong commitment to supporting teammates and delivering for clients, Morgan became a trusted and reliable presence across the organization. Through strong leadership, meaningful relationships, and a results-driven approach, Morgan earned recognition for driving outcomes while elevating those around him.

Rich Henjy & Taylor Rogers, Employee Benefits Advisors of the Year

Rich and Taylor built an incredibly strong partnership rooted in collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. Throughout the year, they consistently delivered thoughtful, strategic value to clients while bringing a team-first mindset to every interaction. Their ability to work seamlessly together, support those around them, and drive meaningful outcomes makes them a strong reflection of the teamwork, relationships, and culture that define CCIG.

Andy Orlando, Private Client Group Advisor of the Year

Andy was recognized for his consistency, professionalism, and continued growth throughout the year. With a strong commitment to delivering an exceptional client experience, he consistently brings reliability, attention to detail, and a thoughtful approach to every interaction. As a trusted advisor and steady presence within the Private Client Group, Andy continues to build meaningful relationships and contribute to the high standard of service that defines the team.

Marr Mansfield, Emerging Producer of the Year

Marr built impressive momentum throughout the year through hard work, determination, and a consistent commitment to growth. By continuing to build strong client relationships and delivering meaningful value, Marr demonstrated both dedication and long-term potential. This recognition reflects more than just one successful year. It highlights continued progress, sustained performance, and a strong trajectory for the future.

Congratulations again to all of our 2025 Presidents’ Club winners. We’re grateful for the dedication, leadership, and relationships you bring to CCIG every day.

Connection in Action

CCIG Named a 2026 Colorado Top Workplace for the 10th Time

CCIG is proud to be recognized by The Denver Post as the #8 Top Workplace in Colorado in the small business category (50–149 employees) for 2026.

This recognition marks an important milestone for our organization:

10 years earning a Colorado Top Workplace award
5 consecutive years receiving the honor

What makes this recognition especially meaningful is the process behind it. Top Workplaces awards are based entirely on confidential employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey.

CCIG Recognized with the Cigna Healthy Workforce Designation

CCIG has been recognized with the Bronze Level Healthy Workforce Designation™ from Cigna Healthcare, reflecting our commitment to building a workplace culture that supports employee well-being and long-term organizational strength.

Give For Good: Supporting Communities Across Colorado

Through our Give For Good initiative, the CCIG team continues finding meaningful ways to support organizations making a difference across Colorado.

Recently, team members volunteered with Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver at the Aurora ReStore, helping organize donations, assist customers, and support Habitat’s mission of creating stronger, more stable communities through affordable housing.

Our team also attended the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado breakfast in Colorado Springs, an inspiring reminder of the impact mentorship and community support can have on the next generation.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with organizations doing such important work and proud to support the communities where we live and work.

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5th Annual Life and Health Sciences Wine Tasting

We had a great time hosting our annual Bioscience Wine tasting here at CCIG with clients, partners, and friends across the Denver Life and Health Sciences community. The evening featured a guided tasting of wines from all around the world, along with plenty of time to connect, catch up, and make new introductions.