Partner Pulse Newsletter

March 2026: Partner Pulse Newsletter

SoftwareOne is Now a Globally Authorized Google Cloud Distributor!

We are excited to announce that SoftwareOne and Google have expanded our partnership globally. As a Globally Authorized Google Cloud Distributor, we now give partners consistent worldwide access to Google Cloud, Google Workspace, and Gemini Enterprise, making it easier to scale across borders with a single trusted partner backed by local expertise.

Our partner-focused distribution model removes the friction of international growth. With the Cloud-iQ platform for transparent billing and streamlined onboarding, partners can confidently manage their Google Cloud business while expanding AI solutions with Gemini and growing their cloud infrastructure footprint.

EXPLORE THE PARTNERSHIP

Creative Young Female and Male Engineers

Partner Licensing Updates

For ongoing licensing updates, enforcement timelines, promotional offers, and pricing changes, visit our dedicated Licensing Updates page. It’s your central source for timely announcements and actions that may impact your agreements.

VIEW ALL UPDATES

Important Business Impacts

No More Grace Period: Every CSP Renewal Now Requires a Decision

Microsoft has eliminated the free CSP grace period and introduced Extended Service Terms (EST), changing what happens at subscription end. Starting May 4, 2026, subscriptions not renewed or canceled will either move to a paid EST at a premium or shut off.

Many subscriptions have already been set to “Renew to EST” by default, which can lead to unexpected costs. Partners should review renewals now and confirm whether to renew, cancel, or use EST.

Learn more

Introducing the First Frontier Suite Built on Intelligence + Trust

Microsoft has introduced the Frontier Suite, combining Microsoft 365 Copilot, Agent 365, and enterprise security to deliver AI built on Intelligence and Trust. With expanded model choice and new agent capabilities, the suite enables organizations to move beyond experimentation and embed AI into everyday work with greater control and impact.

EXPLORE THE FRONTIER SUITE

Cybersecurity expert in dark room with multiple screens

SoftwareOne in the News

SoftwareOne Co-CEO Melissa Mulholland was recently featured in CRN, sharing her perspective on the priorities shaping today’s channel landscape.

As the focus shifts from innovation to execution at scale, she highlights the importance of platform-led growth, operational efficiency, and AI-enabled delivery. Melissa also emphasizes SoftwareOne’s role in helping partners stay ahead of evolving customer needs while capturing new AI-driven opportunities with strong governance and measurable value.

SEE WHAT MELISSA HAS TO SAY

Group of designers, business people at work in corporate office

Events and Webinars

April Partner Insights

Kick off April with fresh insights to support your FY26 growth. Join our Partner Insights Webinar on Tuesday, April 28th, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM EST for a focused, actionable session.

We will cover key market trends, growth strategies, partner success stories, and new ways to collaborate. You will leave with clear next steps to help you plan, prioritize, and drive stronger results.

february-partner-momentum-adobe-339096035-square

Cybersecurity Forum

Cyber experts and industry leaders will gather at the 6th Annual Cybersecurity Forum to explore strategies for defending against AI-driven threats, identity risks, and an increasingly unpredictable security landscape. Discover how to strengthen resilience while staying ahead of emerging cyber challenges.

SAVE YOUR SPOT

march-2026-partnerpulse-adobe-387269585-square

Pulse Check: Meet the Team

Meet Lindsay Cicenas

Role & Impact

I’m the Vice President of Enterprise Sales at SoftwareOne and have been with the company for nearly 19 years, including the past two in this role. I lead our enterprise sales team and go-to-market strategy, support client needs, and build strong relationships with partners and customers. I stay closely connected through regular client engagement. My favorite part is being in the field with my team and in front of clients.

Client Approach

I come prepared with research and focus on building trust. We lead with a client first approach—acting as a true advisor, not just a vendor.

Advice for Businesses

Work with a trusted partner who can guide strategy and help you reach your goals more effectively.

Productivity Hack

Write everything down and don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Fun Fact

I’ve been a collegiate dance judge for University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for nearly 20 years.

Most Rewarding Part of Your Job

Watching my team grow and succeed, both professionally and personally.

Welcome to the new Partner Pulse newsletter