Dynamics Communities Biz Apps Partner Podcast

Biz Apps Partner Summit: Microsoft's Eric Fink on Agents, GTM Strategy, Partner Momentum in FY26

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Biz Apps Partner Podcast, Eric Fink, Partner Solution Sales, Business Applications, SMB, Microsoft, joins John Siefert to discuss how AI is impacting the Microsoft Partner opportunity, the organization's evolving role as a platform driving business outcomes, and the forward-looking approach Microsoft aims to have with its partners.

Episode Notes

Key Takeaways

• Impact of AI on Microsoft Partners: With FY26 approaching, Fink explains that Microsoft teams are getting early insights into upcoming priorities, including new solution plays and GTM strategies. A major focus will be on AI, which will be prominently featured across all messaging and product areas. Fink explains "that AI messaging, whether that's manifesting through Copilot itself or just through the AI within the products,” will be central to why customers choose Microsoft and Dynamics.
• AI agents creating seamless experience: Microsoft's goal is to meet customers where they are by enabling seamless access to data and actions via AI agents. Fink notes that while the boundaries between product areas like Modern Work, business apps, and Analytics may blur, the unified message is clear: “It’s a Microsoft conversation, and it solves business problems and helps you with business outcomes.”
• Microsoft's evolving role: With the rise of AI and its integration into business applications, Microsoft is now positioning itself as a platform that drives business outcomes, beyond its traditional role as a "software vendor." This shift moves the conversation from products to solutions, aligning more closely with customer goals.
• Value of new fiscal year: Fink notes that the start of a new fiscal year is a time of reinvestment in the ecosystem, marked by reorganizations, new strategies, and refreshed messaging. He emphasizes the importance of aligning on go-to-market plans, innovation, and partner enablement to drive customer value and execution throughout the year.
• Connect with Eric:  Eric will be attending the Biz Apps Partner Executive Summit, running July 23-24, and is bringing a forward-looking approach to partnerships. In closing, he stresses the importance of mutual trust and alignment, especially in light of upcoming announcements around customer segmentation and GTM strategies.