Brightway Insurance is welcoming seven independent agents into its fold, as part of its new franchise ownership program.

The seven are Gary Weintraub in Pooler, GA; Andrew Gutierrez in Topeka, KS; Sandeep Rao in Wilmington, NC; Aquarius Johnson in Humble, TX; Austin Vannoy in Valdosta, GA; Jeremy Hill in New Orleans, LA; and Maria Puente in Tucson, AZ.

Each of them has opened a Brightway-affiliated insurance agency in their respective areas.

 "We're thrilled to welcome this first group of experienced insurance agents to our Independent Agent program," said Brightway president Talman Howard. "This path to franchise ownership program allows experienced agents to begin selling in the Brightway system while qualifying for franchise ownership with no up-front costs or risks."

Brightway introduced its Independent Agent program earlier this year. Independent agents under the program enjoy a fully financed, lower-cost entry fee into franchise ownership, as well as the same after-the-sale service as other regular franchise owners.