10 Key Insights from Microsoft's FY25 Plan: Highlights from the Inaugural MCAPS Start Event
Welcome to a transformative journey into FY25 with Maven Collective Marketing, your trusted ally in the Microsoft Partner network. We’re here to distill key insights from the inaugural MCAPS Start event, providing you with a strategic roadmap to leverage Microsoft’s focus areas - AI, cloud, and security—and capitalize on new opportunities.
This year, Microsoft intensifies its commitment to AI, cloud, and security, presenting abundant opportunities for Partners. With increased investments, enhanced programs and targeted incentives, Microsoft is priming Partners to excel in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Tap into new possibilities with Copilot integration and Microsoft’s robust AI offerings. Over 818,000 learners have been trained on platforms like Microsoft Azure, Copilot, and Fabric since last year, giving Partners a solid foundation to develop impactful AI solutions. Microsoft is further incentivizing this growth with substantial investments in partner enablement and rewards for AI innovation.?
Azure migrations represent a significant revenue opportunity, estimated at $20 billion. Microsoft is facilitating this with tools like Azure Migrate and Modernize, simplifying the migration process and accelerating Partner-led initiatives. With a 36% increase in partner-led migrations, the pathway to AI readiness and innovation is clearer than ever.
As AI applications grow, so does the need for robust security. Microsoft is investing an additional $90 million in security, enhancing threat protection and data security assessments, and incentivizing secure migrations. This investment creates numerous opportunities for Partners specializing in security to expand their practices and deliver crucial solutions.
The Microsoft Commercial Marketplace has experienced an explosive 188% growth in AI and machine learning revenue, opening a vast landscape for Partners to showcase their innovative AI solutions. This remarkable growth offers Partners a golden opportunity to position their offerings in a market that is not only growing rapidly but also increasingly receptive to advanced AI capabilities.
To enhance the potential of marketplace exposure, the Microsoft Customer Engagement Methodology for Partners (MCEM) offers a structured, five-stage co-selling process that helps Partners navigate from lead generation to deal closure:
Microsoft is investing significantly to enhance co-sell capabilities, making collaboration with Microsoft’s sales teams easier and accelerating the sales cycle. Strategic improvements include integrating Copilot into CRM tools, streamlining lead-sharing processes, and boosting partner visibility. These advancements foster a more collaborative and efficient environment, allowing partners to engage more actively in the sales process, amplify their impact, and achieve greater success within the Microsoft ecosystem.
The Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program is evolving with new tiered benefits and over 20 additional product SKUs, including tools like Copilot, Defender for Endpoints, GitHub and Fabric. These enhancements equip Partners with a comprehensive toolkit to succeed at every stage of their AI journey. Microsoft is also prioritizing the value of long-term customer relationships by increasing CSP incentives for strategic solutions like Microsoft 365 E3/E5 and Business Premium, enabling Partners to earn up to $120,000 per customer for M365 E3 workloads.??
Microsoft is committed to supporting Partners throughout their growth journey. The Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program now features three new benefit packages — Partner Launch, Partner Success Core, and Partner Success Expanded — designed to meet the evolving needs of Partners at different stages. These packages will soon be enhanced with over 20 new product licenses, including Copilot, Defender for Endpoint, and GitHub, providing Partners with an even more comprehensive toolkit for success.???
Aligning with Microsoft’s strategic priorities and leveraging the enhanced suite of tools and incentives ensures that Partners can face the challenges ahead with confidence. Stay informed and proactive: optimize your offerings, upskill your team, and ensure your strategies meet the evolving market needs.
For expert guidance on maximizing these opportunities with bespoke GTM strategies for your Microsoft-aligned solutions, partner with Maven Collective Marketing. Stay ahead of industry trends and amplify your market impact with our award-winning strategies.
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