17 Years of Innovation and Growth: The Journey of iBusinessSolutions

As iBusinessSolutions celebrates its 17th anniversary on June 6, 2025, it’s a moment to reflect on a remarkable journey of growth, resilience, and commitment to excellence. From its humble beginnings to becoming a leader in payroll, benefits, and workers’ compensation, iBusinessSolutions has navigated economic downturns, technological shifts, and global pandemics, always emerging stronger. This feature traces the company’s history, highlighting the milestones, challenges, and values that have defined its success over the past 17 years.

The Early Days: A Vision Takes Root

The story of iBusinessSolutions begins in the late 1990s when founders David Yohn and Jamie Dunnam after successful careers in the insurance and financial services industry following their time in the boat manufacturing sector, decided to forge their own path. In 1999, they launched Gulfcoast Insurance Agency from a modest home office. With a vision to provide personalized insurance solutions, they quickly expanded to a standalone location, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving enterprise. This early venture was marked by a commitment to client service, a value that remains at the core of iBusinessSolutions today.

By 2006, Gulfcoast Insurance Agency had grown significantly, leading to a pivotal merger that formed Purpose Insurance Group. This strategic move expanded the company’s footprint, with offices in Bradenton, Venice, and Port Charlotte, Florida. The merger broadened their service offerings to include comprehensive insurance and financial solutions, catering to a diverse client base. A key partnership with ADP Payroll during this period introduced the founders to the power of integrated payroll and benefits services, planting the seeds for the company’s future direction. This era of growth showcased their ability to adapt and innovate in a competitive industry.

A New Beginning: Resilience in the Face of Crisis

The global economic crash of 2008 tested businesses worldwide, and the founders of Purpose Insurance Group were no exception. Facing a challenging economic landscape, they made a bold decision to restructure and refocus. On June 6, 2008, iBusinessSolutions was officially incorporated, with a clear mission to specialize in payroll, benefits, and workers’ compensation. This new entity was born out of necessity and vision, leveraging the founders’ expertise to address the evolving needs of small to medium-sized businesses. The incorporation marked a turning point, setting the stage for a new era of growth and innovation.

In 2011, iBusinessSolutions took a significant step forward by making its first hire, signaling the start of a rebuilding phase. The company focused on integrating advanced technology and reinforcing its core values of compassion, community, and ownership. By 2014, their efforts bore fruit as they reached $1 million in annual revenue, a testament to their strategic vision and dedication.

Growth and Challenges: Overcoming Obstacles

In 2015, iBusinessSolutions transitioned to iSolved, a cutting-edge payroll solution, which streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery, further solidifying their reputation for innovation. The following year, in 2016, the company joined the C12 Group, a Christian CEO leadership forum, which provided a network of like-minded business leaders and reinforced their commitment to ethical practices.

However, 2019 brought a significant challenge when iBusinessSolutions faced a major bank fraud incident that impacted many payroll companies and businesses throughout the country. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, the company not only recovered but also achieved 12% growth that year, proving their ability to overcome adversity while maintaining growth.

The year 2020 brought unprecedented challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic, but iBusinessSolutions navigated this crisis with agility and strength. Their ability to adapt quickly, maintain service excellence, and support clients during uncertain times underscored the robustness of their business model and the dedication of their team. That same year, Michael Braun joined as a partner, bringing fresh expertise and vision to the leadership team. His addition strengthened the company’s strategic direction and reinforced its commitment to client success.

Today and Beyond: A Beacon of Innovation

Today, iBusinessSolutions stands as a beacon of innovation and client-centric service, serving businesses across the U.S. (except Hawaii and Puerto Rico) from its base in Sarasota, Florida. Known for its client-first approach, the company offers tailored solutions in payroll, human capital management, timekeeping, workers’ compensation, and health insurance. Their mission, “to turn clients’ mountains into molehills by simplifying their complex processes,” is reflected in their use of advanced technology like iSolved and their personalized service model, where clients work directly with dedicated payroll professionals.

With a steadfast team culture and a commitment to investing $250,000 annually into their team and community, iBusinessSolutions continues to experience double-digit growth year over year. Their values of compassion, community, and ownership guide every decision, ensuring that both clients and employees are prioritized. As noted on their About Page, iBusinessSolutions has transformed how businesses manage their most vital asset: their people, delivering comprehensive, scalable, and high-value outcomes.

Looking to the Future

As iBusinessSolutions celebrates its 17th anniversary, it’s clear that their journey is one of continuous growth, learning, and adaptation. From a home office in 1999 to a leading provider of payroll and benefits services, the company has consistently demonstrated that with the right vision, values, and team, any challenge can be overcome. The milestones—reaching $1 million and $2 million in revenue, overcoming fraud, and thriving through a global pandemic—tell a story of resilience and innovation. As they look to the future, iBusinessSolutions is poised to continue its legacy of excellence, driven by a commitment to simplifying complex processes and inspiring positive change for clients and communities alike.