How to Sign Up for the AWS Partner Network (APN) and Understand Its Tiers

Introduction

Whether you’re a startup building a cloud‑first solution or an established consultancy expanding its portfolio, joining the AWS Partner Network (APN) can accelerate growth. In this guide we’ll walk you through the step‑by‑step APN signup process, explain each tier, and share practical tips to move up the ladder faster.

Why Join the AWS Partner Network?

• Access to AWS training, credits, and technical support.
• Co‑marketing opportunities that put your brand in front of millions of AWS customers.
• Preferential positioning in the AWS Marketplace and Service Catalog.

Step‑by‑Step APN Signup

1. Prepare Your Business Profile

Before you begin, gather the following information:

• Company legal name, address, and tax ID.
• Primary contact details (email, phone).
• Brief description of your services, target industries, and AWS use cases.
• Existing AWS account ID (if you already have one).

2. Create an AWS Account (If Needed)

If you don’t already have an AWS account, sign up at aws.amazon.com. Use a corporate email address—personal accounts can slow down the verification process.

3. Access the APN Partner Central Portal

Log in to the APN Partner Central portal. Click “Join APN” and follow the on‑screen prompts.

4. Complete the Partner Application

1. Enter your business profile information.
2. Select your intended partner type (Consulting, Technology, ISV, Managed Service Provider, etc.).
3. Upload required documents (company registration, insurance, if requested).
4. Agree to the APN Terms and Conditions.

5. Verify Your AWS Account

AWS will send a verification email to the account owner. Click the link, then confirm the connection between your AWS account and the APN portal.

6. Activate Your APN Membership

Once approved (usually within 48 hours), you’ll receive a confirmation email and can start accessing APN resources.

Understanding APN Tiers

The APN is structured into three primary tiers: Registered, Standard, and Advanced. Each tier has distinct requirements and benefits.

Registered Partner (Entry Level)

• Requirements: Complete the signup form, have a valid AWS account, and agree to the APN terms.
• Benefits: Access to basic partner enablement material, partner logo for marketing, and eligibility for APN webinars.

Standard Partner (Mid‑Level)

To move from Registered to Standard, you need to demonstrate AWS competency.

• Key Requirements:
  • Earn at least one AWS competency (e.g., Migration, DevOps, Security).
  • Accumulate a minimum of 10 AWS‑certified staff members (Associate or Professional).
  • Showcase at least one customer reference “Story” with measurable outcomes.
• Benefits:
  • Co‑selling support from AWS sales teams.
  • Eligibility for APN Marketing Development Funds (MDF).
  • Higher visibility in the AWS Marketplace.

Advanced Partner (Top Tier)

Advanced partners are considered trusted experts. The bar is higher but the payoff is significant.

• Key Requirements:
  • Earn at least two AWS competencies or a specialty (e.g., Machine Learning, SAP).
  • Maintain 20+ AWS‑certified staff, including at least two Professional‑level certifications.
  • Provide three validated customer case studies with AWS‑specific ROI.
  • Generate a minimum of $500,000 in annual AWS consumption or demonstrate a similar level of impact.
• Benefits:
  • Dedicated APN Partner Development Manager.
  • Early access to new AWS services and private beta programs.
  • Priority placement in the AWS Partner Solutions Finder.
  • Increased MDF allocation and joint go‑to‑market opportunities.

Tips to Accelerate Tier Advancement

• Invest in certifications: Schedule exam dates for your team and use AWS’s free training vouchers.
• Leverage AWS programs: Join the AWS Well‑Architected Review, Migration Acceleration Program, or the SageMaker JumpStart program for fast‑track credits.
• Document success early: Capture metrics (cost savings, performance gains) as soon as a project goes live. These make compelling case studies.
• Network with AWS account managers: Regular check‑ins help you discover new competencies and co‑selling opportunities.

FAQ

How long does the APN approval process take?

Typically 24‑48 hours, but complex profiles may require up to a week.

Can a partner be in multiple competency categories?

Yes. Earning additional competencies speeds up the move from Standard to Advanced.

Do I need to pay to join the APN?

No – APN membership is free. Fees only apply for optional services like Marketplace listings or premium marketing programs.

What if I lose a certification?

Tier status is re‑evaluated quarterly. If you dip below the required count, AWS will notify you and give a grace period to regain compliance.

Is there a way to get AWS credits without a competency?

Registered partners can apply for the AWS Activate program, which provides starter credits for startups.

Conclusion & CTA

Signing up for the AWS Partner Network is a straightforward process, but climbing the tiers requires strategic effort. Start by completing the registration, focus on certifications and real‑world case studies, and leverage AWS’s partner resources to differentiate your business.

Ready to become an AWS Partner? Start your APN application today and unlock the full power of the AWS ecosystem.