Cisco Unveils New “360 Partner Program” to Accelerate AI Transformation
To facilitate these connections, Cisco has launched an enhanced Partner Locator tool, allowing customers to search for specific expertise in areas such as Security, Cloud and AI Infrastructure, and Splunk.
RMN Digital Corporate Desk
New Delhi | January 31, 2026
SAN JOSE, Calif. – On January 26, 2026, Cisco officially launched the Cisco 360 Partner Program, a major initiative designed to help customers achieve transformative AI outcomes and navigate the complexities of the modern digital era. The program, which was co-designed with partners over a 15-month period, aims to better equip developers, consultants, and managed service providers to deliver specialized solutions in AI-ready data centers, future-proofed workplaces, and digital resilience.
Streamlining the Partner Experience
The Cisco 360 Partner Program introduces a more unified approach to how the company engages with its global ecosystem. A central feature of this evolution is the Cisco Partner Incentive (CPI), which streamlines previous program elements to offer partners clearer and more predictable earnings across Cisco’s entire portfolio.
To further boost growth, Cisco is offering temporary CPI bonuses focused on Secure Networking and Secure AI Infrastructure through July 2026. Additionally, a new measurement framework called the Partner Value Index (PVI) has been introduced to reward partners for the value they create throughout the customer lifecycle rather than just sales volume.
Helping Customers Find Specialized Expertise
Recognizing that AI readiness is a significant competitive advantage, Cisco has updated its partner designations to help customers easily identify the right experts. The new tiers include:
- Cisco Registered Partners: All participating partners.
- Cisco Portfolio Partners: Those with proven technical expertise and practice maturity.
- Cisco Preferred Partners: Organizations offering advanced technical skills and end-to-end solution capabilities.
To facilitate these connections, Cisco has launched an enhanced Partner Locator tool, allowing customers to search for specific expertise in areas such as Security, Cloud and AI Infrastructure, and Splunk.
Driving Innovation with AI Tools
The program also integrates cutting-edge technology to assist partners in their daily operations. An enhanced Cisco AI Assistant has been added to the Partner Experience Platform (PXP), enabling partners to work more efficiently and focus on high-value customer interactions.
“The Cisco 360 Partner Program helps us differentiate based on our expertise,” said Nicko Roussos, Senior Vice President at TD Synnex, noting that the focus on value benefits the mutual customer. Tim Coogan, Cisco’s Senior Vice President of Global Partner Sales, added that the program strengthens a “world-class ecosystem” to help customers “connect, protect and thrive”.
A Strategic Shift for 2026
Industry analysts view the move as a critical transition for the tech leader. Anurag Agrawal, founder of Techaisle, described the program as a “bridge to the new partner model,” predicting that partners who embrace the new value-based metrics will see significant profitability in 2026.
This launch coincides with Cisco’s broader push into artificial intelligence, following recent announcements regarding its second annual AI Summit and ongoing investments in AI workforce transformation. As a company that has connected the world for over 40 years, Cisco continues to focus on AI-powered solutions to strengthen digital resilience and unlock global innovation.
