A small business can shop off-exchange through a broker, buy a small-group plan...

https://wiki-mixer.win/index.php/How_Do_I_Know_If_a_Broker_Represents_Many_Carriers_or_Just_a_Few%3F

A small business can shop off-exchange through a broker, buy a small-group plan directly from a carrier, or consider an HRA for individual coverage. Before comparing costs, check that employees’ doctors and nearby hospitals are in-network.