Our Story: FDI Group's History & Evolution Since 1970
A Michigan-based group, building on over 50 years of steady growth, strategic acquisitions, and client-first expansion.
A Timeline of Milestones-From Financial Designs to FDI Group
FDI Group's journey began in 1970 with the founding of Financial Designs Inc., a firm focused on serving the insurance and benefits needs of Michigan's businesses and organizations. Over the next five decades, the company grew from a single agency into a dynamic group of specialized providers. Each step in the timeline marks a strategic response to client needs, market changes, or new opportunities-showcasing how FDI Group became the umbrella for multiple companies with a common vision.
1970
Financial Designs Inc. is founded in Michigan, establishing a foundation in insurance brokerage and employee benefits.
1985
George B. Ford Agency joins the family, bringing expanded expertise in commercial insurance and benefits services.
1988
ManageAbility is launched to deliver medical case management, cost containment, and utilization review services to self-insured employers and carriers.
1994
FDI Risk Managers is established, offering alternative risk financing and self-insurance solutions for public entities and specialized markets.
1997
Startech is created as an in-house technology subsidiary, providing insurance software, analytics, and compliance solutions for all group companies.
2001
Recognizing growing needs in workplace safety, FDI Group launches Rizikon, focusing on loss prevention and risk consulting for Michigan employers.
2004
CompOne Administrators joins the group, expanding third-party administration (TPA) services for workers' compensation, auto, liability, and specialized claims.
2010
AbsencePlus is formed to address rising demand for employee absence and disability management in large organizations.
2015
ManageAbility IME is established, delivering independent medical evaluations to insurers, employers, and legal clients across Michigan.
2018
FDI Group opens its Grand Rapids office, broadening regional reach and supporting more West Michigan clients.
1970
Financial Designs Inc. is founded in Michigan, establishing a foundation in insurance brokerage and employee benefits.
1985
George B. Ford Agency joins the family, bringing expanded expertise in commercial insurance and benefits services.
1988
ManageAbility is launched to deliver medical case management, cost containment, and utilization review services to self-insured employers and carriers.
1994
FDI Risk Managers is established, offering alternative risk financing and self-insurance solutions for public entities and specialized markets.
1997
Startech is created as an in-house technology subsidiary, providing insurance software, analytics, and compliance solutions for all group companies.
2001
Recognizing growing needs in workplace safety, FDI Group launches Rizikon, focusing on loss prevention and risk consulting for Michigan employers.
2004
CompOne Administrators joins the group, expanding third-party administration (TPA) services for workers' compensation, auto, liability, and specialized claims.
2010
AbsencePlus is formed to address rising demand for employee absence and disability management in large organizations.
2015
ManageAbility IME is established, delivering independent medical evaluations to insurers, employers, and legal clients across Michigan.
2018
FDI Group opens its Grand Rapids office, broadening regional reach and supporting more West Michigan clients.
2020s
Continuous investment in technology, compliance, and specialized staff, supporting growth across the state and select national markets.
Built on Legacy, Growing With Purpose
Every milestone reflects FDI Group's commitment to meeting real-world challenges for Michigan organizations. As the group expanded-by launching new companies and bringing others into the fold-it carried forward a family-led, values-driven philosophy. The evolution from Financial Designs to today's FDI Group demonstrates stability, adaptability, and a client-first mindset that persists across decades. No matter how many companies joined, the group's vision remained rooted in partnership and lasting trust.
Serving Michigan for Over Five Decades
From Novi to Grand Rapids, and with clients throughout Detroit, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City, FDI Group's growth story is grounded in the communities it serves. Each expansion was guided by local needs and long-term relationships-reflecting the group's heritage as a Michigan-founded, family-owned network. Industry accreditations like AICPA SOC and multi-generational leadership reinforce a track record of stability and accountability.
Connect With a Group That's Grown With Michigan
Organizations choose FDI Group for our experience, steady growth, and reputation for lasting client relationships. If you'd like to see how our history supports your future, we're here to help you move forward.
