Our mission is clear: Insure Your Moment®.
For nearly 100 years, The Accel Group has served as a trusted risk and advisory partner to businesses, organizations, and individuals across the Midwest. As part of Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA), we combine our deep regional roots and hands-on service with a powerful national platform to deliver comprehensive insurance and strategic planning solutions designed to protect assets, strengthen operations, and support long-term growth.
From startup and expansion to workforce strategy and ownership transition, we help clients navigate pivotal business and life milestones with confidence. Our consultative approach now blends localized industry expertise with MMA's global resources and broad carrier access to deliver tailored solutions that align with each client’s objectives.
By the numbers
90
+
YEARS
of service and industry leadership
130
+
experienced associates
across specialized practice areas
60
+
carrier partnerships
providing broad market access and flexibility
7
OFFICE LOCATIONS
serving clients throughout the Midwest
WHO WE SERVE
The Accel Group partners with businesses, nonprofit organizations, agribusiness operations, individuals, and families across diverse industries and stages of growth. We provide integrated loss control and advisory services that address both organizational priorities and personal financial security.
core service areas
Business Insurance & Risk Management
Strategic risk assessment and customized coverage solutions to protect operations, assets, and leadership.
EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND BENEFITS CONSULTING
Competitive, cost-effective benefits strategies that support workforce recruitment, retention, and compliance.
AGRIBUSINESS INSURANCE SOLUTIONS
Specialized coverage and risk guidance tailored to the unique exposures of agricultural enterprises.
PRIVATE CLIENT SERVICES
Asset protection solutions designed to safeguard what matters most.
STRATEGIC & LONG-TERM PLANNING SUPPORT
Access to resources that assist with business continuity, succession planning, and long-range financial objectives.
The Accel Group is not limited to a single carrier relationship. As a Marsh Agency, we have access to an even broader range of carriers, markets, and resources. This expanded access allows us to evaluate more options and structure solutions around each client’s industry, risk profile, and long-term goals.
At every stage, we’re committed to delivering clarity, responsiveness, and partnership—helping our clients navigate risk and stay prepared for what’s ahead.
At every stage, we’re committed to delivering clarity, responsiveness, and partnership—helping our clients navigate risk and stay prepared for what’s ahead.
Our Locations
We proudly serve clients throughout Iowa and the Midwest with convenient office locations in:
Across every location, our teams collaborate to deliver responsive service, local insight, and consistent support.
Our History
The Accel Group’s foundation is built on nearly a century of experience and the legacy of two respected insurance organizations.
The Millhiser Insurance Agency was founded in 1928 in Cedar Rapids by Harold Millhiser. Following World War II, Forrest Smith became a partner, and the firm became known as Millhiser Smith Agency. Throughout the 1950s and beyond, the agency expanded through acquisitions and continued to grow its product offerings and client base for decades.
The Accel Group was originally founded in 1936 in Waverly by Leslie J. Young. Over time, the agency evolved through multiple partnerships and acquisitions. In 2000, it began operating as First Insurance Services, with a strong focus on business, personal, and agribusiness insurance.
In 2010, The Accel Group was formally established when the 401(k) and employee health and benefits divisions of Net Worth Advisors joined the agency, expanding its capabilities in benefits and organizational planning support.
In 2010, The Accel Group was formally established when the 401(k) and employee health and benefits divisions of Net Worth Advisors joined the agency, expanding its capabilities in benefits and organizational planning support.
- January 1, 2018: Millhiser Smith Agency and The Accel Group officially merged, forming one of the largest independent insurance agencies in Iowa.
- February 2019: Acquisition of Asset Pros in West Des Moines, expanding personal, business, and employee health and benefits services.
- December 2019: Acquisition of Premier Advisors, extending wealth services into the Cedar Rapids market.*
- January 2020: Acquisition of RJ Lee & Associates in Moline, IL, expanding employee health and benefits capabilities in the Quad Cities region.
*Wealth services are offered through affiliated entities and provided separately from insurance services.
Today
Today, The Accel Group is supported by 130+ professionals across eight locations, serving clients throughout Iowa and beyond. While our organization has grown, our commitment remains the same:
- Build meaningful relationships

- Provide clarity, and trusted guidance

- Deliver consistent, high-quality service


We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in partnership - working alongside our clients to help protect their people, their operations, and their future.
Our Mission
To Insure Your Moment® by building meaningful relationships, providing trusted guidance, and serving with care and excellence in all that we do.
Our Vision
To provide peace of mind for life’s moments - from one generation to the next.
