Akamai new partner program offers geo-level tiering aimed at APJ partners

The new Akamai Partner Connect brings all partner types into a single, unified program.

Akamai Technologies has released its new partner program, Akamai Partner Connect that brings new features including geo-level partner tiering.

The new framework consolidates multiple go-to-market tracks into one platform that is designed to reduce complexity and streamline partner engagement models that may vary across geographies.

Akamai Partner Connect marks the first time Akamai has integrated all partner types into a single global program, while also decentralising qualification criteria to better reflect market-specific conditions.

The move addresses partner feedback around greater simplicity, flexibility, and support.

Tatsuya Suzuki, regional VP APJ channel sales, Akamai told CRN Australia this geo-level tiering replaces the global-level tiering.

“This new approach is more suitable for our APJ partners, as the tiering criteria are more aligned with the current APJ partner ecosystem. We have also improved both enablement and incentive programs for Akamai’s strategic products,” he said.

The program gives its partners a single framework supporting resale, distribution, technical solution enablement, services, and referrals.

According to Akamai, the program introduces enhanced incentives aligned with strategic offerings, and streamlined access to tools and support.

Suzuki explained how partners can make money through the new program.

“Akamai Partner Connect creates new opportunities for partners to generate new revenue streams through integration and consulting services tied to Akamai’s strategic products,” he said.

“For example, a partner investing in Akamai’s API security solution will receive detailed technical and enablement support, allowing them to provide professional services to their customers.

“As customers generally expand API security in phases, fully enabled Akamai partners can continue offering consulting and integration services throughout the customer’s journey and generate ongoing revenue on top of Akamai product sales.”

According to Akamai, the new program gives cloud-focused partners more ways to engage. Existing cloud services partners remain supported through their dedicated agreements, while resellers can continue to benefit from volume-based discounts.

It also opens the door for ISVs to join the Akamai Partner ecosystem as the company evolves its cloud partner strategy.

Suzuki said Akamai has two objectives with Akamai Partner Connect.

“First, we want to boost channel sales performance with a more streamlined and simplified program. Second, we want to create a win-win model by enhancing rebates on our strategic products,” he said.

He said Akamai Partner Connect has been designed with the needs of both customers and partners in mind.

“Partners have told us that they want simplicity and scalability - so we have streamlined our partner program to include just five categories: resellers, distributors, service providers, technology service distributors (TSDs), and referral partners,” he said.

“This clarity and simplicity make it easier for both our new and existing partners to engage and grow with us.”

Suzuki explained that Akamai Partner Connect is designed for scalability.

“By simplifying engagement and aligning incentives, we’re expanding Akamai’s partner ecosystem to accelerate growth in both our security and compute businesses,” he said.

“With Akamai Partner Connect, we anticipate our channel ecosystem to expand even further over the next three years, as we look forward to helping and working with our partners to achieve their next stage of growth.”