How To Choose The Best SaaS Partner Programs (+5 Examples)

Businesses often face challenges like high software development costs, limited resources, and struggles with brand credibility. SaaS partner programs solve these issues by providing access to proven software, allowing companies to expand their services without heavy investments. 

By joining these programs, businesses can unlock new revenue streams, enhance their service portfolio, access proven software solutions, boost brand credibility, and receive valuable training and resources. 

However, to fully maximize these benefits, it’s crucial to understand how to choose the best SaaS partner programs tailored to your business needs. Here’s how you can make the best decision.

What is a SaaS partner program?

A SaaS partner program involves a strategic collaboration where a SaaS provider teams up with external businesses or individuals to promote, sell, or add value to their software products. These partnerships can take on many forms, such as distributors, affiliates, service providers, or industry experts. 

For instance, a company offering accounting software could partner with financial advisory firms, who recommend the software to their clients and assist in setting it up. In return, the advisory firms earn a commission for each new user they refer and integrate the software into their service portfolio.

This creates a win-win scenario where the SaaS company gains new users without extensive marketing efforts, and the partners improve their service offerings with an added solution.

How SaaS partner program can benefit your company

A SaaS partner program can be a game-changer for your business. By joining forces with a leading SaaS provider, you can have:

• Revenue stream: Earn extra cash through commissions or profit margins on SaaS sales.
• Enhanced service offerings: Offer more comprehensive solutions by providing integration, customization, and support.
• Customer retention: Improve customer satisfaction and loyalty by becoming a one-stop shop for their software needs.
• Market differentiation: Stand out from the competition with innovative, branded solutions.
• Training and resources: Benefit from training, marketing materials, and support to sell and support the software effectively.
• Networking opportunities: Network with other partners and industry experts to learn and grow.

Types of SaaS partner program

These programs offer different levels of involvement and benefits, allowing partners to choose the one that best aligns with their business model and capabilities. Which type do you think suits your business best?

1. Reseller  

A reseller program allows partners to purchase the SaaS product at a special price, then sell it to their clients at a marked-up price, creating a straightforward revenue stream.

Resellers don’t just pass along software; they often act as an all-in-one solution provider, handling everything from sales and billing to customer onboarding and support. 

This program benefits resellers by letting them bundle the software with their own services, adding value through customization, integration, or ongoing customer care. It’s a low-effort way to tap into new markets via trusted SaaS providers. 

For example, if you’re looking to expand your service offerings and provide a comprehensive solution to your clients? Mekari’s consulting service program could be the perfect fit for you.

2. Referral  

Referral partners work more like connectors. Their role is simple but powerful: they recommend the SaaS product to people within their network. Once a referral turns into a paying customer, the partner earns a commission. 

This program is perfect for influencers, consultants, or companies that have strong industry ties but don’t want to be involved in the sales cycle or post-sale support. 

Mekari’s Referral Program offers a straightforward opportunity to earn significant passive income. It is one of the easiest in the B2B industry. Just share your referral link and let your audience know about Mekari’s benefits. When a referral becomes a customer, you’ll receive a generous commission.

3. White Label  

The white-label model is like giving partners a “software in a box” that they can entirely rebrand as their own. The SaaS provider remains behind the scenes, handling everything from development to technical upkeep, while the partner takes all the credit. 

They market, sell, and support the product under their own name, positioning it as a unique solution in their portfolio. 

For businesses looking to expand their offerings without the hassle of building their own software, white labeling is the perfect opportunity. It allows them to grow their brand while leveraging proven technology, creating a seamless experience for their customers.

Baca Juga: White Label SaaS: How to Become a Successful SaaS Reseller

4. System Integrator  

System integrators are the ultimate tech problem-solvers. Their job is to make sure that different software tools and platforms work together smoothly. In this type of partnership, integrators combine the SaaS solution with other systems their clients are already using, ensuring everything operates as a unified workflow. 

They take care of complex implementation, customization, and compatibility issues, which are especially valuable for large enterprises managing multiple software platforms. 

Mekari’s System Integrator Program offers the ideal platform to expand your business innovation. By integrating Mekari’s solutions with your in-house systems, ERPs, or custom-built platforms, you can create tailored solutions that deliver exceptional value to your clients.

Key indicator for choosing the best SaaS partner program

By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and build a successful partnership that drives your business forward.

1. Program alignment

A successful SaaS partnership requires a strong alignment between the program and your company’s goals and objectives. 

Consider whether the partner’s target market aligns with your ideal customers, and if the SaaS product complements your existing offerings. Ensure that the program supports your company’s growth strategy and helps you achieve your desired outcomes.

2. Partner support

A reliable partner will provide the necessary support to help you succeed. Look for programs that offer comprehensive training and resources to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively promote and sell the SaaS product. 

Additionally, ensure that the partner has a dedicated technical support team to address any issues promptly. Marketing and sales support can also be valuable, as it can help you reach a wider audience and generate more leads.

3. Financial terms

The financial terms of the partnership are crucial to consider. Evaluate the pricing structure to ensure it is fair and competitive, and consider the revenue share model to determine how profits will be distributed. 

Flexible payment terms can also be beneficial, as they can accommodate your company’s cash flow needs.

4. Partner reputation

A partner with a strong reputation is more likely to deliver on their promises. Research the partner’s experience in the industry, their track record of success, and customer satisfaction ratings. 

Look for case studies or testimonials from other companies that have partnered with them to gain insights into their capabilities and performance.

5. Future growth potential

When selecting the best SaaS partner programs, it’s important to consider the long-term potential of the partnership. Evaluate the market potential for the SaaS product and the partner’s commitment to growth and expansion. 

A partner that shares your vision for the future and is invested in a long-term relationship is more likely to contribute to your company’s success.

5 recommendation of best SaaS partner programs

To help you make the right choice, we’ve curated a list of five best SaaS partner programs that offer a variety of benefits and cater to different business needs.

1. Mekari Partnership

Joining Mekari’s Partnership Program offers a range of valuable benefits. First, you’ll gain access to the latest industry insights and technology trends, ensuring you stay competitive and well-informed. 

Additionally, Mekari provides 24/7 support, including product, marketing, and technical resources, to help you successfully serve your clients. As a partner, you’ll also be recognized and rewarded for promoting digital transformation among businesses and partners.

Plus, you can explore the partnership options that suit you:

• Reseller: Ideal for tech consultants or service providers looking to boost revenue by offering more technology solutions.
• Referral: Perfect for professionals, bloggers, or content creators who want to earn by referring others without directly selling platforms.
• System Integrator: Designed for software houses or tech service providers to integrate ERP or custom systems and develop tailored solutions.

2. HubSpot’s Sales and Marketing Growth Stack

HubSpot has tailored its partner program to cater to the diverse needs of B2B businesses. The program is divided into three tiers: Marketing Agency Partners, Sales Partners, and Integration Partners. Each tier offers specialized support and benefits to help partners succeed.

HubSpot’s partner program provides a generous 20% monthly referral commission for the first year of a customer’s subscription. Additionally, partners gain access to a dedicated partner manager, a comprehensive toolkit, online training, and a prominent listing in HubSpot’s partner directory. 

However, it’s important to note that there is a monthly fee of $50 to join. 

3. Shopify’s eCommerce Expert Program

In Shopify’s partner program, freelancers and agencies can take advantage of discounts on leading software products and services, access in-depth courses and resources through the Partner Academy, and easily manage referrals and commissions using a user-friendly dashboard. 

Additionally, Shopify offers generous referral commissions, paying out 20% of the referred customer’s monthly subscription fees for the life of their subscription. 

App and theme developers can also earn substantial revenue, with commissions ranging from 50% to 80% of one-time sales or subscription fees. 

4. Webflow

Webflow is a powerful platform that empowers designers and developers to create visually stunning and fully responsive websites without writing complex code. 

As an affiliate, you can not only showcase your design skills but also earn additional income by sharing your unique affiliate link with others. 

The more people you refer to Webflow, the more you can earn. With no caps on earnings per customer or overall, the potential for income is unlimited.

5. Sprout Social

Sprout Social is a leading social media management platform that offers a wide range of features, including publishing, reporting, and overall management for popular social platforms. 

They partner with agencies of all sizes, providing them with marketing, sales, and support services, including co-marketing resources, sales assistance, partner certifications, and a listing in their Agency Directory. 

Their flexible pricing options make it accessible to agencies of all sizes, and they offer a generous 20% commission for life for successful referrals.

Earning more with SaaS partnership program by Mekari

Partnering with a reputable SaaS provider can be a strategic move to expand your reach, increase revenue, and enhance your customer experience. 

Join Mekari Partnership now! You can benefit from generous commission rates, access to a wide range of marketing and sales resources, and the opportunity to offer your clients a comprehensive solution for their business needs. 

When partnering with Mekari, you can rest assured that you’re working with a reliable and experienced company. Mekari is a leading integrated cloud-based business solution to streamline operations and enhance collaboration. 

With Mekari, businesses can focus on growth and scale their operations confidently. Mekari’s reliable ecosystem of software and services ensures optimal performance and compliance with local regulations, delivering exceptional value and scalability.

References

Elfsight. ”Best Saas Partner Programs”
Impartner. ”How to Build the Best SaaS Partner Program”