Microsoft Announces Major Updates to AI Cloud Partner Program to Enhance Partner Experience and Growth Opportunities

June 29, 2024 Microsoft Partner News

Microsoft has recently announced some significant updates to its AI Cloud Partner Program, which are designed to enhance the way partners can differentiate their technical expertise. These updates are particularly relevant for scenarios with high customer demand.

One of the most exciting updates is the general availability of the Solutions Partner with certified software designation. Microsoft is currently offering a 50% subsidy on the application fees for this designation, making it a great opportunity for independent software vendors (ISVs) to become Solutions Partners within the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program. This designation not only helps partners connect better with customers but also unlocks additional benefits from Microsoft. It differentiates partners' software solutions in high-demand areas and helps customers identify trusted solutions.

Another significant update is the adjustment of audit requirements for renewing partners in the Infrastructure and Migration specialization. Microsoft has added an alternate path for eligible partners seeking to renew their specialization where an audit is required. This change was made based on feedback received from partners and is expected to make the renewal process more streamlined and efficient.

Microsoft is also introducing a Business Central certification in skilling for Business Applications partner capability score. This certification is added to the partner capability score this end of June for Business Applications. Any partner who attains, or already attained the certification earns points in the skilling subcategory for advanced certifications.

In addition to these updates, Microsoft is modernizing Azure bulk credits. The current Azure credits benefit redemption process is complex and the modernization project aims to simplify this process by allowing partners to do a direct deposit of Azure credits on their organization's billing account with MCA agreement and billing profile on the new commerce stack. This feature will be generally available by September 2024.

Furthermore, Microsoft is updating the Skilling requirements for several specializations including Analytics, Business Intelligence, Data Warehouse Migration, Teamwork Deployment, and Supply Chain. These updates include changes in the certifications required and the number of individuals needed to pass these certifications. Partners currently enrolled in these specializations will be given a grace period until December 31, 2024, to meet these new knowledge criteria.

Lastly, Microsoft is aligning the Low Code and SMB specializations to the official data feeds used by Partner Center for the Business Applications Solutions Partner Designation and all other Business Applications specializations. This change will impact the Performance and App Source metrics for some partners who have achieved or are working toward achieving the Low Code and SMB specializations.

In conclusion, these updates from Microsoft are designed to enhance the partner experience and provide more opportunities for differentiation and growth. As a partner, it's important to stay updated with these changes and leverage them to maximize the benefits of the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program.

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