Red Hat unveils new, no-cost Partner Subscriptions

Open source software giant Red Hat has unveiled new Red Hat Partner Subscriptions, a new no-cost subscription model designed to provide partners with greater access to the firm’s open hybrid cloud portfolio.

Replacing Not-For-Resale (NFR) subscriptions, Red Hat Partner Connect members now have access to a simplified pathway to acquire Red Hat product subscriptions, which can be used to develop software solutions, proof-of-concepts, as well as test product offerings.

The company says this will help partners leverage its platforms – such as Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Red Hat OpenShift, and the Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform – to drive operational efficiencies and technical capabilities for customers.

“By introducing new and improved Red Hat Partner Subscriptions, partners will have more visibility than ever before into the Red Hat open hybrid cloud portfolio to fuel real business outcomes and success with customers,” said Stefanie Chiras, senior vice president of partner ecosystem success at Red Hat.

With Partner Subscriptions, a single SKU provides access to up to 500 self-support entitlements across the Red Hat product families, with partners able to mix and match on-premise with public cloud as required.

There’s also single- and multi-user software development, testing, internal training, demonstrations, and proof-of-concepts, as well as complimentary Red Hat Standard support for five partner contracts. Partners can upgrade for additional contacts or Red Hat Premium support.

These new subscriptions are available now to all Red Hat Ready, Advanced, and Premier Business partners. Red Hat technology partners that have either completed or are undergoing product certifications can also take part.

“The transformative capabilities of open hybrid cloud, and ultimately, our customers’ business outcomes can only be unlocked through a collaborative and knowledgeable partner ecosystem,” Chiras added. “Red Hat is committed to catalysing open source innovation with partners by enabling deeper access to leading Red Hat technologies and support resources.”

Commenting on Red Hat’s revamp, Steve White, IDC’s programme vice president of channels and alliances, highlighted the importance of software vendors building an efficient partner ecosystem that can “react swiftly to evolving customer demands”.

“Red Hat Partner Subscriptions offer a simplified and comprehensive avenue for partners to strengthen their business and deliver solutions, skills, and support on Red Hat technologies,” he said.