Teaming up with AWS can give your business a serious boost. Whether you run a small startup or lead a large company, partnering with AWS means tapping into reliable cloud tech, global infrastructure, and deep technical support. You get the tools to scale fast, reach more customers, and simplify your operations.
With AWS, you can use proven resources and expert guidance that help keep your business strong as you grow. This post covers what you need to know, from partnership steps to the real-world benefits you’ll see along the way.
If your business is looking for new ways to grow with AWS, the AWS Partner Network (APN) is where the journey starts. Think of APN as your front-row seat to AWS programs, tools, and experts. From training to technical boosts and marketing support, APN sets you up with real help and resources that keep your business moving forward.
The AWS Partner Network is the official support system for businesses building, selling, or providing services on AWS. Here’s what makes joining APN a smart move:
Joining the APN means you’re not just another vendor, you’re part of a trusted circle with a direct line to AWS support and new customers.
The APN groups partners into different tracks, each with its own focus and benefits. Here’s how they break down:
Each partner type has access to resources designed for that focus, from technical support to special marketing paths.
Joining the APN comes with a few hoops but meeting them sets your business apart. Here’s what to expect:
By meeting these requirements, companies prove their AWS expertise and dedication to high standards. Joining APN means real commitment—but with every step up, you get bigger rewards and more ways to grow with AWS.
Becoming an AWS Partner starts with clear goals and takes focused work, but the outcomes can transform your business. Each step, from early research to your final profile, helps build a solid path for lasting results. Understanding this journey will guide you through every stage so you can set up for partnership success.
Before jumping into the AWS Partner Network, check if the move aligns with your business vision and strengths. AWS wants partners who can add real value to their customers, so it pays to be honest with your self-assessment.
Ask these questions to get started:
Think about your resources and bandwidth. Partnering takes time, training, and ongoing effort. If cloud isn’t already a part of your plan, consider where AWS fits in your roadmap. It helps to map out a one-year and three-year vision to check if AWS lines up with your future.
Once you decide AWS is right for your business, it's time to apply. The AWS Partner application is straightforward, but complete and accurate details make a strong first impression.
To apply, follow these steps:
Key documents you may need:
AWS sets high standards for partners because it protects their brand and customers. That means your team must learn, certify, and prove their skills.
Depending on your target tier (Registered, Select, Advanced, Premier), review the certification minimums. AWS commonly expects:
Recommended certifications include:
Encourage your technical leads to complete both foundational and specialty exams. Credentials boost your team’s skills and show AWS you’re committed.
A strong public partner profile brings in leads and opens doors. After acceptance, spend time crafting a profile that covers your key strengths.
Include in your profile:
AWS will validate your profile for accuracy and may request updates if things aren’t clear. Keep it updated as your business grows.
Pro tip: Take time to gather positive customer feedback to highlight in your profile. Social proof makes your profile stand out to future clients and AWS teams.
Once you’re in the AWS Partner Network, real growth starts with knowing how to use everything AWS offers. Being a partner is more than a badge, it’s a direct route to new business, hands-on support, and technical advancement. The key is getting involved with AWS programs, standing out in joint marketing, and taking advantage of training and enablement. Here’s how to get the most from your partnership.
AWS has built a range of programs to help partners boost credibility, expand services, and win more customers. By taking part, you can showcase expertise and attract clients looking for proven AWS specialists.
Some of the most valuable partner programs and resources include:
AWS also offers funding programs (for Proof-of-Concepts and pilots), technical validation support, and partner solution libraries to get your offerings in front of the right audience. Taking these steps puts your business where AWS customers look first.
Promoting your solutions alongside AWS magnifies your message and attracts new leads.
Partners who engage in joint marketing see better awareness and more qualified prospects.
APN Marketing Central is a hub where you can:
AWS customer references are a secret weapon. Showcase real client wins, use cases, and testimonials with AWS support and branding. These stories serve as trust signals, making it easier to win business. Partners can submit case studies to AWS, and with approval, gain wider exposure through AWS sites, webinars, and events.
Co-selling lets you work hand-in-hand with AWS reps. This could mean running joint presentations, sharing sales leads, or even presenting at AWS-sponsored events. The process is straightforward and supported by tools within the Partner Central portal, making collaboration as easy as possible.
AWS invests heavily in partner training so your team can stay ahead. Take full advantage of the extensive learning and enablement resources.
Keyways to level up your technical and sales teams include:
Consistently investing in these areas means you always have a skilled team and can offer customers the latest AWS solutions. This not only wins projects, it protects your reputation as a trusted AWS advisor.
By tapping into these programs, your AWS partnership becomes a launchpad for both business growth and technical strength.
Building a strong, long-term partnership with AWS is about more than signing up and following the rules. It’s about growing together, staying sharp, and always looking for new ways to grow your teams and your business alongside AWS. Simple habits set you apart— like continuous learning, working on joint projects, and taking part in the wider AWS partner community
Up-to-date AWS certifications aren’t just a requirement—they’re your ticket to new business and deeper trust. The best AWS partners encourage their teams to keep learning, so skills never get stale and you’re always ready for new AWS launches.
Success as an AWS partner grows when you work together on new tech, products, and use cases. Don’t just sell what you know, build something new with AWS teams.
Here are a few practical ways to collaborate:
Investing in joint innovation leads to better offerings and deeper trust with AWS.
Being part of the AWS Partner Community adds weight to your relationship and helps your team grow faster. Active partners learn first, make valuable contacts, and find new ways to expand their reach.
Ways to get the most from the community:
The more your business and team lean into the AWS partner community, the more likely you are to spot and seize new opportunities before anyone else.
AWS partnership opens doors to real growth, new customers, and stronger teams. With the right steps and steady effort, your business can tap into training, programs, and joint opportunities that set you apart.
Now is the perfect time to act if you’re thinking about joining AWS as a partner. Follow the path, stick to best practices, and your hard work will pay off.