What is the AWS Partner Network (APN)?

How is the AWS Partner Network organized?

AWS reorganized the APN around Partner Paths, which focus on what a partner offers rather than the older "Consulting" and "Technology" partner types. Partners enroll in the paths that fit their business:

• Software Path: For ISVs whose products run on or integrate with AWS.
• Services Path: For consulting, professional, managed, and reseller services.
• Hardware Path: For companies building devices that work with AWS.
• Training Path: For organizations that deliver AWS training.

What are the AWS Partner Network tiers?

Partners on the Services Path earn recognition through three tiers. Each is awarded on validated evidence, not on application alone.

Tier reflects scale and track record, not fit. A smaller partner with the right specialization can outperform a Premier partner on a niche project.

What are the benefits of joining the AWS Partner Network?

• Training and certification: Learning paths and accreditations through AWS Partner Central.
• Visibility: Listings in AWS Partner Solutions Finder and marketing resources.
• Funding: Programs such as Market Development Funds, available at higher tiers.
• Co-selling: Collaboration with AWS sales teams and other partners.
• AWS Marketplace: A route to sell software and services to AWS customers.
• Specializations: Programs such as AWS Competency and AWS Service Delivery that validate expertise.

How to become an AWS Partner?

1. Register: Sign in to the AWS console and complete AWS Partner Central registration.
2. Choose a path: Enroll in the Partner Paths that match your offering.
3. Meet requirements: Build certified staff and launch customer projects, then work toward a tier.
4. Join programs: Add Competency, Service Delivery, or Managed Service Provider programs as you mature.
5. Scale: List in AWS Marketplace and co-sell with AWS.

Requirements and fees change, so confirm the latest criteria on the official AWS Partner Network page.

How to choose an AWS Partner?

• Check the tier and programs: Look for the right path, tier, and relevant competencies.
• Ask for references: Validated customer success matters more than a badge.
• Match expertise to your workload: Migration, security, data, and AI need different skills.
• Review cost transparency: Clarify fees, support scope, and billing, and compare them with your AWS Support plans.
• Confirm the team: The tier reflects the company, not the specific engineers on your project.

Best practices for working with AWS Partners

• Define scope and success metrics before the engagement starts.
• Keep ownership of your AWS accounts and access.
• Review spend regularly with AWS Cost Explorer and budget alerts.
• Plan knowledge transfer so your team isn't dependent on the partner.

Related offering: AWS cost optimization and managed services

A good AWS partner helps you build well and spend wisely. CloudKeeper supports teams with AWS cost optimization and ongoing cloud operations, so savings continue after migration. To see what that could look like for your environment, talk to our AWS experts.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• Q1: What does APN stand for?

  APN stands for AWS Partner Network.

• Q2: Is joining the AWS Partner Network free?

  Registering for Partner Central is straightforward, but some tiers and programs carry fees and requirements. Check the current AWS program pages.

• Q3: What are the AWS Partner tiers?

  Services Path partners are recognized as Select, Advanced, or Premier.

• Q4: What is the difference between Advanced and Premier partners?

  Advanced reflects a strong certified team and proven delivery. Premier reflects greater scale, deeper validation, and broader reach.

• Q5: Are the old Standard and Consulting Partner names still used?

  No. AWS replaced the older consulting and technology partner types with Partner Paths, though some supplier websites still use the old wording.

• Q6: How do I find an AWS Partner?

  Use the AWS "Work with an AWS Partner" directory, and filter by path, tier, program, and location.

• Q7: What is AWS Partner Central?

  It is the portal where partners register, manage their APN membership, and access benefits and programs.