The Microsoft partner ecosystem is a cornerstone of Microsoft's success, fostering innovation and driving growth across industries. Partners play a vital role in delivering Microsoft solutions to customers, amplifying the reach and impact of technology. To continue supporting and enhancing these partnerships, Microsoft launched MCAPS Start for Partners—a pivotal event, at the beginning of the tech giant's financial year, designed for sellers in the Microsoft Customer and Partner Solutions program. This year, Start took place on July 10 and focused on empowering partners with the tools, resources, and strategies they need to succeed. If you're in this world you most likely know all about the event. But in case you're not fully up on the program or you missed this thing, I've put together this handy guide on the benefits of being part of MCAPS and Start's key takeaways.
Aligned with the flagship customer event, Microsoft Ignite 2024, MCAPS Start for Partners aims to bring together key customers, industry executives, and partners for a transformative experience. While the event has passed, the insights shared continue to set the stage for collaborative success and help partners strengthen their leadership within the Microsoft ecosystem.
While you're here, and speaking of Microsoft Ignite, have you got plan for the event? It's a great opportunity to not only network, but network in a way that strengthens your brand <-- this is an old(ish) post but has some good ideas about getting the most from events like Ignite.
Anyway, back to now. In this blog, we’ll explore how MCAPS Microsoft can elevate partners from participants to leaders. We’ll look at the benefits of being a Microsoft partner, the steps to becoming a Microsoft partner consultant, and key strategies to grow your business in alignment with Microsoft’s vision.
What is MCAPS?
Microsoft Customer and Partner Solutions (get it? MCAPS!) is a key organisation within Microsoft, dedicated to fostering and enhancing the relationships between Microsoft and its global network of partners. MCAPS plays a crucial role in Microsoft's strategy, ensuring that partners are well-equipped to deliver Microsoft solutions effectively and drive customer success.
MCAPS Start for Partners was introduced as a digital readiness initiative designed specifically for Microsoft partners. The event marked the start of Microsoft’s fiscal year and set the stage for strategic collaboration and growth. While the 2024 event has passed, the insights and strategies shared remain highly relevant for partners navigating the Microsoft ecosystem.
During the event, top Microsoft executives such as Judson Althoff, Nick Parker, and Nicole Dezen highlighted opportunities for accelerating AI-driven growth, strategic investments, and program enhancements. Additionally, breakout sessions focused on critical topics like the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program, the Microsoft commercial marketplace, and Microsoft Co-Sell Strategies—providing partners with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the evolving landscape.
Although the live event has concluded, the lessons from MCAPS Microsoft continue to offer invaluable guidance for partners. By leveraging the strategies and resources discussed, partners can stay ahead of the curve and maximize their impact within the Microsoft ecosystem.
MCAPS Start for Partners is an unmissable event that empowers Microsoft partners with the insights and tools needed to excel. It's a unique opportunity to align with Microsoft's strategic vision and drive transformative growth.
Benefits of being a Microsoft Partner
Being a Microsoft partner comes with a bunch of benefits that can significantly enhance your business capabilities and market reach. Here are some of the key advantages:
Access to cutting-edge technology and resources
Microsoft partners gain exclusive access to the latest technology, tools, and resources. This includes early access to new software, participation in beta programs, and comprehensive technical support. With the rapid advancements in AI and cloud technologies, you can use these resources to stay at the forefront of innovation and better serve your customers.
Growth opportunities through the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program
The Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program is designed to help partners harness the power of artificial intelligence. This program offers training, certifications, and co-selling opportunities, enabling partners to build and deliver AI-driven solutions. By participating in this program, partners can expand their service offerings, tap into new market segments and strengthen their competitive edge.
Recognition and credibility
Being recognized as a Microsoft Partner of the Year or achieving other accolades within the network can significantly boost your credibility and visibility. These awards highlight outstanding innovation and success, setting you apart from competitors. Even if not an award recipient, being part of the MCAPS Microsoft network enhances your reputation and opens doors to new business opportunities.
Strategic support and investment
Microsoft provides strategic support and investment to its partners, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed. This includes access to marketing funds, business development support, and expert strategic guidance. Microsoft Digital Readiness initiative continue to offer partners the tools and knowledge they need to drive growth and maximize their impact.
Co-selling and joint opportunities
Through Microsoft co-sell strategies, partners have the opportunity to collaborate directly with Microsoft’s sales teams to pursue joint business opportunities. This partnership can lead to increased sales, improved customer engagement, and higher revenue. Leveraging Microsoft’s market presence and expertise through co-sell initiatives is a powerful way to grow your business.
By taking full advantage of these benefits, Microsoft partners can accelerate their growth, enhance their service offerings, and achieve lasting success. Even though MCAPS Start for Partners has passed, the insights and resources shared continue to guide partners toward these opportunities.
Being a Microsoft partner means having access to cutting-edge technology, strategic support, and unparalleled growth opportunities. MCAPS Start for Partners is the gateway to unlocking these benefits and achieving success.
Becoming a Microsoft Partner consultant
Whether you're a tech company looking to join the Microsoft partner network or an existing partner aiming to elevate your status, becoming a Microsoft partner consultant offers numerous opportunities to use Microsoft's vast resources and expertise. By tapping into Microsoft’s vast resources and expertise, you can strengthen your service offerings and accelerate business growth. Here are the steps to becoming and thriving as a Microsoft partner consultant:
Step 1: Initial application and prerequisites
For those new to the Microsoft partner network, the first step is to apply through the Microsoft Partner Network (MPN). The application process involves providing information about your business, including your services, client base, and areas of expertise. Ensure you meet the necessary prerequisites, such as having a certain number of certified professionals and demonstrating your ability to deliver Microsoft solutions effectively.
Step 2: Training and certification
Once accepted into the Microsoft Partner Network, or if you're an existing partner looking to expand your credentials, the next step is to undergo training and certification. Microsoft offers a range of training programmes designed to equip partners with the knowledge and skills needed to implement Microsoft technologies. These programmes cover various areas, including cloud computing, AI, and business applications. Completing certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert or Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Functional Consultant Associate can enhance your credibility and expertise.
Step 3: Leveraging the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program
As a partner consultant, you can take advantage of the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program. This programme provides specialised training and resources focused on artificial intelligence, enabling you to deliver AI-driven solutions to your clients. The programme also offers co-selling opportunities, allowing you to collaborate with Microsoft's sales teams and expand your market reach.
Step 4: Accessing resources and support
Microsoft offers a wealth of resources and support to its partners. This includes technical support, marketing resources, and access to partner communities. These resources are designed to help you stay updated with the latest developments, enhance your service offerings, and connect with other partners and Microsoft experts.
Step 5: Participating in events and programmes
Engage with the Microsoft community by participating in events like the Microsoft Digital Readiness Event and MCAPS Start for Partners. These events provide valuable insights into Microsoft's strategies, offer networking opportunities, and help you stay informed about the latest trends and technologies.
Step 6: Utilising co-sell strategies
Through Microsoft co-sell strategies, you can collaborate with Microsoft's sales teams to drive joint business opportunities. This partnership approach can lead to increased sales, improved customer engagement, and higher revenue. By working closely with Microsoft, you can use their market presence and expertise to enhance your business growth. Stand on the shoulders of giants, ride the coat tales, whatever way you want to express it, it's a good thing.
By following these steps, both new and existing Microsoft partners can establish themselves as trusted consultants within the Microsoft ecosystem. The MCAPS Start for Partners event is an excellent opportunity to learn more about these steps and begin your journey towards becoming a successful consultant within the Microsoft ecosystem.
MCAPS is a program for any Microsoft partner looking to stay ahead of the curve. It offers unparalleled insights, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance to drive business growth.
Key takeaways from MCAPS Start for partners
The MCAPS Start for Partners event provided Microsoft partners with invaluable insights, networking opportunities, and strategic direction to enhance their initiatives for the new fiscal year. Even though the event has passed, the lessons learned remain highly relevant. Here are some of the key takeaways from MCAPS Start and why they continue to matter:
Insights from Microsoft leaders
The live keynote session was with prominent Microsoft executives (here's Nicole Dezen's takeaways from the 2024 event). These leaders shared their vision on accelerating AI opportunities, strategic investments, and key programme changes. The guidance offered by these thought leaders remains a crucial resource for partners seeking to align their strategies with Microsoft’s broader goals.
On-demand sessions on critical topics
The event prioritised on-demand breakout sessions covering essential topics like the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Programme, the Microsoft commercial marketplace, co-sell strategies, and incentives for the new fiscal year. The information from these sessions is still accessible (you just need to login. Here's the link again so you don't need to trawl through this article again.) and continues to offer practical advice on how to leverage these programmes to drive business success.
Direct engagement with Microsoft leaders
A unique feature of the event was the AMA (ask me anything) live sessions, which provided partners the opportunity to interact directly with Microsoft leaders. While the live interactions are over, the strategic insights offered remain valuable for understanding Microsoft’s direction and implementing those strategies within your own business.
Networking and collaboration opportunities
These things always foster a rich networking environment where partners, industry leaders, and key customers could build relationships. The connections made at the event can lead to collaborative business opportunities and new ventures. Partners who attended can continue to cultivate these relationships and apply shared insights to their strategies. If you attended, hope you made some good connections. If not, there's Ignite in November. Or, you know, Start next year.
Alignment with Microsoft Ignite 2024
This year (and you'd assume going forward?) was strategically aligned with Microsoft Ignite 2024. Partners who participated are well-prepared for the larger event in November. By staying connected with the outcomes of MCAPS, partners can continue to refine their strategies ahead of Ignite and capitalise on the opportunities it will present.
Recognition of partner achievements
The event also celebrated the Microsoft Partner of the Year award winners. Recognising these achievements provides inspiration and valuable benchmarks for all partners. The success stories shared can serve as practical models for innovation, growth, and success in the Microsoft ecosystem. Shameless plug coming up: we can help you get your award entry together for next year (just imagine it says 2025 in this piece).
Experts in Microsoft partner marketing
At Fifty Five and Five, we’ve spent the last decade helping Microsoft partners succeed in the digital space. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face, and we’re here to support you with proven marketing strategies that drive growth. Whether you're looking to enhance your brand, generate leads, or boost your online presence, we have the expertise you need.