The latest Voice of the Microsoft Partner (VOMP) session covered major shifts in the Microsoft partner ecosystem, including the retirement of silver and gold competencies, the importance of Solution Partner Designations (SPDs), evolving security and compliance requirements, and the role of stronger partnerships in driving success.
We were joined by Sherman Crancer, Phil Kent, and Andres Oceguera, who provided invaluable insights into how partners can successfully navigate these changes and leverage the latest opportunities. Dilowe Barker, Co-Founder of Dream Big Tech LLC, also joined us and shared valuable insights on how partners can navigate these transitions effectively and position themselves for long-term growth.
Silver and Gold Competencies Are Going Away – What Now?
For years, Microsoft’s Silver and Gold competencies have been a key measure of partner credibility. However, as of 2025, they will be retired, requiring partners to transition to Solution Partner Designations (SPDs) to maintain access to critical incentives, rebates, and co-sell opportunities.
Andres Oceguera emphasized that this transition is not just about compliance—it’s about future-proofing your business and aligning with Microsoft’s evolving partner model. Partners who delay risk losing substantial financial benefits.
Solution Partner Designations (SPDs): The Path Forward
SPDs are now the new standard for Microsoft partners, offering a clear, structured framework to showcase expertise and continue earning incentives.
The SMB path for Azure Solution Designations is now live, making it more accessible for smaller organizations to qualify. This means:
Reduced customer and certification requirements
Stronger alignment with Microsoft’s go-to-market strategy
Continued eligibility for incentives and rebates
Phil Kent, Andres Oceguera and Dilowe Barker discussed how introducing these SPD's will help partners streamline their efforts and more effectively showcase their capabilities to Microsoft. For service providers, achieving an Advanced Specialization is the next logical step to differentiate your business further.
Security, Compliance & Governance: Staying Ahead of Risk
With Microsoft’s rapid updates, compliance and security are more critical than ever. Many partners overlook governance updates, exposing them to security risks and potential financial penalties. Dilowe Barker highlighted key areas where partners should focus their security efforts, emphasizing that staying proactive and informed is essential to long-term success.
Partnerships: Aligning for Growth
Building the right Microsoft partnerships can accelerate growth. This session reinforced that partners who engage collaboratively—whether through co-selling, marketplace opportunities, or strategic alliances—are seeing the most success. Dilowe Barker shared real-world examples of how effective partnerships help organizations scale faster, expand service offerings, and increase revenue opportunities.
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What’s Next?
The following Voice of the Microsoft Partner session will feature Diversified Robotics, one of the leading AI partners, discussing hot topics such as AI, Copilot, and Deepseek.
Head to our website to register for all future events this year!
We look forward to seeing you at the next VOMP
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