FY26 Q2 Update: What's new in certified software designations

As we close out the year, we wanted to remind partners about an important upcoming change to legacy benefits.

Starting on January 1, 2026, all partners will need to have a Solutions Partner* with certified software** designation to continue accessing legacy Azure IP co-sell benefits—including partner-reported Azure consumed revenue (PRACR), partner-led incentives, go-to-market benefits, and prioritized sales engagement.

This change will help streamline the partner experience and simplify how partners engage with co-sell benefits. Attaining a certified software designation opens the door to significant partner opportunities—from expert guidance to financial incentives—all through a united benefit offering that streamlines access to high-value benefits. This change is effective immediately, but partners with legacy benefits can continue accessing them through December 31, 2025.

Whether you already have legacy benefits or you’d like to gain access to these valuable benefits for the first time, here’s what to know:

• Now: Partners who don’t already have an eligible certified software designation can start the process of attaining one. Any net-new partner who wants to access benefits like PRACR and Azure IP co-sell support will need to have a certified software designation. ​
• Until December 31, 2025: Existing partners retain access to current benefits, including PRACR reporting and partner-led incentives.​
• Starting January 1, 2026: Partners will need to have a certified software designation to continue accessing these benefits, so if you currently have Azure IP co-sell top tier benefits, you may already be eligible to pursue a certified software designation.

Learn more about attaining a designation to keep or gain access to these high-value benefits today.

*“Solutions Partner” refers to a company that is a member of the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program and may offer software, services, and/or solutions to customers. Reference to “Solutions Partner” in any content, materials, resources, web properties, etc. and any associated designation should be not interpreted as an offer, endorsement, guarantee, proof of effectiveness or functionality, a commitment or any other type of representation or warranty on the part of Microsoft. All decisions pertaining and related to your business needs including but not limited to strategies, solutions, partner selection, implementation, etc., rests solely with your business.   

**A certification is (1) specific to the solution’s interoperability with Microsoft products and (2) based on self-attestation by the solution owner.  Solutions are only certified as of the date the solution is reviewed. Solution functionality and capability are controlled by the solution owner and may be subject to change. The inclusion of a solution in the marketplace and any such designations should not be interpreted as an offer, endorsement, guarantee, proof of effectiveness or functionality, a commitment or any other type of representation or warranty on the part of Microsoft. All decisions pertaining and related to your business needs including but not limited to strategies, solutions, partner selection, implementation, etc. rest solely with your business.