Created nearly a century ago in 1904 as the Florida Local Underwriters Association, the Florida Association of Insurance Agents adopted its current name in 1941. Dedicated to enhancing the independent agency system through education, legislation, communication and FAIA Member Services, FAIA is a nonprofit state trade association of insurance agencies affiliated with the Independent Insurance Agents of America and 22 local boards throughout Florida. FAIA was based in Jacksonville, then Tampa, before moving to Tallahassee in 1971 to improve the effectiveness of the association's lobbying efforts and communications with state insurance regulators on behalf of independent agents. FAIA's 14-member board of directors selects a president responsible for managing FAIA. The association serves as a central information source for more than 1,500 member agencies. In addition to a broad range of education programs and public relations' initiatives, FAIA provides technology assistance (including web design) to members. Each year in June, FAIA holds a convention featuring presentations from industry experts, networking opportunities, and numerous education classes presented by FAIA's well known staff of instructors. An annual planning session is held near the end of each fiscal year in August, when the association's board and committees meet to discuss strategy for the coming year. The mission of FAIA is to serve the needs of Florida insurance agents by promoting a healthy and competitive insurance environment.