Big changes are coming to Microsoft’s partner programs, and if your business relies on Microsoft Action Pack (MAPS) or legacy Silver/Gold partner benefits, now is the time to act.
On January 22, 2025, Microsoft stopped allowing new purchases or renewals for these programs. If you’ve already renewed, you’ll keep your benefits until your expiration date—but no renewals will be possible.
These changes impact businesses that depend on discounted Microsoft 365, Azure credits, and software licensing. With the renewal deadline fast approaching, planning ahead is critical to avoid disruptions.
Key dates to know
- January 21, 2025: This was the last day to renew Microsoft Action Pack or Silver/Gold benefits. More details can be found here.
- Expiration date of your benefits: If you renewed before January 21, your benefits will remain active for one final year.
- September 30, 2025: CSP incentives for Silver/Gold partners will continue until this date. More details can be found here.
What happens next?
If you already renewed, your benefits will remain active until they expire. After that, you’ll need to transition to a new licensing model.
If your renewal window opened after January 22, 2025, Microsoft will not offer exceptions, so it’s time to find an alternative.
What’s replacing MAPS and Silver/Gold benefits?
Microsoft is shifting to Partner Success Core Benefits and Partner Success Expanded Benefits, which include:
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium instead of Office 365 E3.
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint and other security tools.
- Microsoft Server 2025 (8-core license).
- Azure credits and GitHub access.
For former Silver and Gold partners, those meeting Solutions Partner designation requirements will be automatically upgraded. If you don’t meet the new requirements, consider Partner Success Expanded Benefits to retain key tools.
Actions to take now
- Check your renewal status in Microsoft Partner Center to see if you’re eligible to renew before the deadline.
- Take note of your expiration date if you’ve already renewed and prepare for a smooth transition.
- Explore new licensing options now if you rely on Microsoft 365, Azure, or other Microsoft licenses.
- Consult a Microsoft partner, such as Nerdio, to evaluate your options and ensure a seamless transition.
What this means for MSPs
For many MSPs, these changes will directly impact how they license their internal environments. Some may need to transition to a CSP reseller model, while others must meet Solutions Partner requirements to retain their benefits.
More critically, this shift affects how Microsoft-sponsored subscriptions have supported internal workloads. Many businesses, including Nerdio clients, have relied on Action Pack or Silver/Gold-sponsored subscriptions to run essential services, such as the Nerdio Web App and SQL databases.
Without a transition plan in place, the expiration of these benefits could lead to unexpected cost increases—potentially $140 or more per month—due to the loss of Azure credits and discounted licensing. Now is the time to evaluate your options and ensure your environment remains cost-effective.
Prepare now to avoid disruptions
Change can be disruptive, but this shift is an opportunity to modernize your partner benefits. By staying ahead of the changes, you can avoid licensing disruptions and maximize the new offerings.
Need help figuring out your next move? Nerdio is here to help. We’re committed to making sure MSPs are informed and set up for success. Let’s talk about your options today!
