Amber Hickman |
Microsoft now has over 500,000 organisations in its partner ecosystem and will continue to provide new opportunities to support them in the era of AI, according to the 2025 State of the Partner Ecosystem update.
Nicole Dezen, chief partner officer and corporate vice president of global partner solutions at Microsoft, shared the update, which reflects on the past, present and future of partner initatives in line with Microsoft’s 50th anniversary.
“Microsoft has always been a partner-led company,” said Dezen. “Our partners are core to our heritage and our future. Their innovation and collaboration have driven real transformation and customer success and will continue to shape the future of industries around the world. As we commemorate this historic moment, I want to take the opportunity to say thank you to our partners for being on this incredible journey with us.”
According to IDC’s Microsoft Partners: Driving Economic Value and AI Maturity report, for every $1 of Microsoft revenue, services partners earn $8.45, and software partners earn $10.93. In addition, partners generating at least 25 per cent of their Microsoft-related revenue from AI can expect higher margins and unlock more opportunities for transformation and success.
To help partners thrive in the era of AI, Microsoft is continuing to support the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program with updated benefits packages for partners as well as different designations and specialisations available for different organisations.
In addition, Microsoft is hosting the AI Skills Fest, a 50-day event that will include live sessions, in-person training opportunities, self-paced lessons and hackathons. It will start on 8 April 2025.
“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we remain focused on and optimistic for the future,” said Dezen. “We continue to innovate, collaborate and empower our partners to thrive in the era of AI and beyond. The past 50 years have been defined by shared success, and this will continue for our future. Together, we will unlock new opportunities, drive transformation and shape the future of technology.”