This year’s Cisco Partner Summit in Los Angeles explored how partners can adapt to an evolving tech landscape. Under the theme “Forward as One,” the event focused on navigating the rise of AI while keeping sustainability in view.

Cisco drew a parallel between the current AI boom and the historic gold rush. Just as those who sold picks and shovels prospered during that era, today’s opportunity lies in providing the infrastructure that powers AI—think data centres and networking technology.

Cisco is positioning itself and its partners to be at the forefront of this movement, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is in place to support AI advancements.

A significant announcement at the summit was the overhaul of Cisco’s partner programme. Over the next 15 months, Cisco will transition to the Cisco 360 Partner Programme, simplifying its structure by replacing the traditional Select, Premier, and Gold tiers with just Cisco Partner and Cisco Preferred Partner. These designations will be earned within specific portfolios, such as Networking and Security, allowing partners to demonstrate expertise in targeted areas. Cisco’s shift towards a solutions-based model, rather than focusing solely on architectures, aims to make it easier for partners to specialise and address evolving customer needs with greater flexibility and precision.

While AI took centre stage, sustainability remained an important focus at the summit. Cisco recognised partners who are leading in this area, with Logicalis receiving the Global Sustainability Partner of the Year award—a recognition we’re proud to have supported through our Advisory service. This award highlights how integrating environmental responsibility into core business strategies can set companies apart in a competitive market.

There was genuine interest from leaders of other Cisco Partners in how the Circularity First Operating System (CFOS) could support them in tracking carbon emissions and delivering sustainable solutions for their customers. Providing meaningful data on carbon impact, helping clients better understand and reduce their environmental footprint and ways to bring sustainability into supply chains, with options like Cisco Refresh.

Discussions emphasised the importance of sustainability initiatives such as carbon tracking, circular impact reporting, and circular IT practices. There’s a growing understanding across the industry that responsible solutions are not only valued but are increasingly essential. Embracing sustainability provides a competitive edge, helping organisations meet both client expectations and regulatory requirements.

As AI technologies advance, there’s a growing need to consider how we support this expansion in a way that respects environmental responsibilities. For AI to be truly future-ready, sustainable IT practices—like keeping hardware in use longer, incorporating remanufactured equipment, and sustainable supply chains—are needed.

Remanufacturing offers partners a way to meet the demands of AI without unnecessary consumption, directly supporting Scope 3 carbon reduction goals.

Sustainability within the supply chain also plays a vital role. For many partners, leveraging programs like Cisco Refresh can help the circular economy because resources are continually reused, and technology is repurposed for as long as possible. Partners can differentiate themselves by building resilient supply chains that prioritise reusability, helping clients meet their performance needs, sustainability goals and of course increase shareholder value through improving their bottom line, setting up a long-term infrastructure that supports growth in a responsible, cost-effective way.

The Cisco Partner Summit 2024 outlined a future where AI and sustainability are interconnected priorities. As AI capabilities expand, so does the need for a solid infrastructure to support it—networks, data centres, and the technology that keeps it all running smoothly. This growing demand presents a unique opportunity for companies providing the essential infrastructure that powers these advancements.

For those focused on sustainable technology, this is a chance to contribute meaningfully to the industry’s evolution. Building an infrastructure that supports both innovation and responsibility means creating a tech ecosystem that’s prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. By aligning with both AI and sustainability, companies can help drive a more resilient, responsible, and forward-looking digital landscape.