- Google Cloud’s partner network is being upgraded for all types and sizes of partners
- There’s a renewed focus on results, with some useful simplicity and automation improvements too
- The introduction of a “deliberately selective” diamond level will reward the best achievers
Google Cloud has introduced a new partner program for the company, to be launched during the first quarter of 2026.
The new and upgraded Google Cloud Partner Network is moving from “measuring program work to valuing real customer outcomes”, meaning sales, service delivery and innovation will be rewarded.
All partner types and sizes (ISVs, RSIs, GSIs, and more) will be included, and Google has committed to adding a six-month transition to help partners adjust to the change.
Google Cloud’s channel program has been updated and simplified
In a blog post, VP Colleen Kapase, Google Cloud Channels and Partner Programs, explained that the new program is built around three core pillars – simplicity, results and automation.
Starting with simplicity, Google is moving away from traditional requirements like business plans and customer stories to focus on partner contributions like pre-sales influence, co-innovation and post-sales support. Google Cloud also promises to reward investment in skills, real-world experience and successful customer outcomes.
To achieve results, the company is adding a new Diamond level above the previous Select and Premier models (which live on under the changed format). Diamond is described as “deliberately selective”, designed for partners who consistently deliver exceptional results.
Finally, we have the biggest change to Google’s Cloud Partner Network. The hub has had a makeover for 2026 and will now use AI and automation to track things like skills and customer engagements, allowing partners to reduce the amount of manual reporting they have to do.
For existing partners, this means they will transition to the new system over the next six months and are not guaranteed to keep their current level. A new match will also appear for partners to reach the top diamond status, which can give them access to higher visibility.
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