January 2026 Skilling Kickoff: Turn Readiness Into Growth

Turn Your Skilling Investment Into Measurable Growth

Microsoft released new data showing the real business impact of partner readiness and enablement programs. A Forrester Total Economic Impact™ study commissioned by Microsoft reveals compelling ROI metrics for partners who invest in skilling.

The Numbers Behind Readiness

The study examined a composite partner organization and found:

- 217% return on investment over three years with payback in less than six months
- 10% annual win rate improvement valued at $49 million over three years
- 6.1% increase in average deal size per year through upsell and cross-sell
- 20% improvement in project delivery speed, driving $37.6 million in increased gross profit
- 5% additional revenue annually from new offerings and capabilities

These aren't abstract metrics—they directly impact how partners compete and execute.

Getting Started: The Partner Skilling Hub

The challenge for most partners isn't understanding the value of readiness; it's knowing where to begin. The Partner Skilling Hub serves as your unified starting point, consolidating learning paths across Microsoft solution areas with both self-paced and instructor-led options aligned to technical and sales roles.

Start by picking one role on your team and one priority area, then build from that foundation.

Key Solution Areas to Prioritize

Microsoft recommends focusing on AI Business Solutions, Cloud & AI Platforms, and Security through role-based Partner Project Ready workshops.

Building the Foundation Early

If 2026 is about faster execution, capability building is the foundation that makes it possible. The earlier you create focus across your teams, the sooner you can translate training into real delivery impact and go-to-market success.

For more details on partner skilling opportunities and latest program updates, visit the Partner Community news page.

TL;DR

- Partner skilling delivers 217% ROI over three years with payback in less than six months
- Win rate improvements (10% annually), larger deals (6.1% annually), and faster delivery (20% annually) directly tied to readiness investments
- Start with Partner Skilling Hub as unified entry point; focus first wave on one role and one solution area