Cisco Launches New Cisco 360 Partner Program, Built with Partners for the AI Era

Core Insights - Cisco has launched the Cisco 360 Partner Program to enhance collaboration with partners and support customer needs in the evolving AI landscape [1][4] - The program aims to provide clarity and empower partners to achieve predictable profitability while facilitating customer access to the right expertise [2][5] Group 1: Program Features - The Cisco 360 Partner Program is designed for various partner business models, including developers, consultants, and managed services providers, to deliver AI-ready solutions [1][7] - New partner designations help customers identify partners with the right capabilities, including Cisco Portfolio Partners and Cisco Preferred Partners [6] - The program includes the Cisco Partner Incentive (CPI), which streamlines earnings and aligns sales strategies with Cisco's roadmap [5][8] Group 2: Partner Support and Resources - Enhanced resources such as new rebates, Partner Value Indexes, and a Development Fund are available to help partners differentiate their offerings [7][14] - The Cisco AI Assistant has been improved to assist partners in delivering value to customers more effectively [14] - The Distributor Development Fund aims to strengthen alignment and success between Cisco and its distributors, focusing on partner growth [14] Group 3: Market Positioning and Impact - Cisco's AI Readiness Index indicates that being AI-ready provides a competitive advantage, emphasizing the importance of expert partners in delivering essential infrastructure and services [4] - The program is positioned as a bridge to a new partner model that is high-touch, high-value, and outcome-based, aiming for unprecedented profitability in 2026 [14]