#Israel #Tel Aviv #Cato Networks #SASE #Partner Program

Cato Networks Introduces Innovative Global Partner Program for Enhanced SASE Growth

Cato Networks, a recognized leader in Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions, recently announced a transformative update to its global partner program aimed at driving scalable and profitable growth for its partners. This new initiative, cleverly titled the Cato Networks Channel First Partner Program, is designed specifically for modern channel dynamics. It introduces several key features that simplify the partnership landscape and promote a collaborative environment for all stakeholders.

A New Approach to Partnering

The revamped program introduces specialization tracks, tiered levels, and a unique approach of zero upfront financial commitment, allowing partners to engage with Cato Networks without the burden of initial capital expenditure. This progressive strategy is instrumental for partners looking to balance investment risk while expanding their service offerings.

Cato is strategically placing itself at the forefront of an expanding SASE market, which Gartner predicts is set to grow at a 26% compound annual growth rate, reaching $28.5 billion by 2028. As businesses globally shift towards unified, vendor-agnostic SASE solutions, Cato is enabling its partners to thrive in this rapidly evolving space.

Core Principles of the New Program

At the heart of the Cato Networks Channel First Partner Program lie three fundamental principles that distinguish it from outdated legacy models:
1. Transparency: With clear pricing structures and predictable revenue streams, partners can engage confidently and without the usual uncertainties that often accompany channel partnerships.
2. Predictable Profitability: The program is tailored to maximize gross profit margins while aiding partners in accelerating deal cycles and enhancing recurring revenues over time.
3. Field-Ready Sales Tools: Partners gain access to integrated sales tools that streamline the sales process, further enabling them to focus on customer engagement and service enhancement.

Versatile and Partner-Centric Design

Cato Networks' approach marks a significant departure from conventional partnership models, which can often be rigid and cumbersome. The new program fosters agility, scalability, and sustained partner success. It comprises:

• - Go-to-Market Flexibility: A modular program structure provides extensive specialization opportunities for diverse partner types including value-added resellers (VARs), managed service providers (MSPs), service providers (SPs), and technology service distributors, among others.
• - Tiered Engagement Levels: Partners can navigate through tiers—from Starter (entry-level) to Advanced (top-level)—based on their business needs and performance. This design allows customizable engagement while ensuring partners receive benefits reflective of their commitment and growth.
• - No Financial Burdens: Partners can initiate their relationship with Cato without any upfront costs. The absence of hidden fees allows for immediate access to essential resources such as onboarding programs, certifications, and strategic market tools.

Accessing Cato’s Managed SASE Platform

An integral component of the program is the Cato Managed SASE (MSASE) Partner Platform, launched earlier in June 2024. This platform positions partners to harness tools for certifications, co-branding options, and upselling opportunities without restrictions tied to partner categories. The platform promotes an inclusive atmosphere that ultimately empowers partners to maximize their offerings and streamline service delivery efficiently.

Moreover, partners can attain a prestigious designation as “Powered by Cato,” signaling adoption and transformation via the SASE platform—currently, over 150 partners have earned this recognition, underscoring the program's effectiveness.

Partner Feedback and Future Directions

Feedback from existing partners indicates that this transformation is not just welcomed but crucial. Industry representatives emphasized that previous partner programs lacked transparency, often deterring quick deal closures. In contrast, Cato's program is setting a benchmark of clear discounting and protective measures, fostering an environment conducive to strategic business growth.

Industry leaders have highlighted how Cato’s specialization tracks create pathways for solution providers to deliver flexible, expedient responses to clients' needs—thereby reinforcing Cato’s position and that of its partners in the competitive SASE realm.

Conclusion: The Cato Networks Channel First Partner Program fundamentally reimagines how partners can engage in the SASE marketplace, bringing to the fore an agile, transparent, and partner-native approach that promises significant advantages for firms eager to capitalize on SASE’s boundless potential. As the program rolls out globally, it stands as a testimony to Cato's commitment to fostering enduring relationships built on mutual success.