How to Thrive as a Small or Minority-Owned Partner Business

The unwavering pursuit of equality for all is an important factor that sets Salesforce apart from other companies. We understand the importance of partner success, especially when it comes to small or minority-owned businesses. Leading with our values enables us to unlock innovation, build deeper connections, and impact change to create long-term value for our people, our customers, and our communities.

We’re so proud to have launched the Salesforce Impact Accelerator, a game-changing 12-week program designed to help partners from small businesses and underrepresented groups thrive in the Salesforce ecosystem. The inaugural cohort included 14 consulting partners from underrepresented groups (URG) including Black, women, Latinx, and AAPI-owned businesses. They experienced incredible growth through events, mentorships, hands-on learning, and specially curated content.

What our Impact Accelerator cohorts are saying

During the program, participants get access to tools to help successfully build their Salesforce business, drive alignment, and identify new opportunities for growth.

“I am absolutely thrilled with the Salesforce Impact Accelerator program, which has far exceeded my expectations. The content was truly outstanding, laying a solid foundation for comprehending the Salesforce partner ecosystem. The speakers and facilitators showcased remarkable expertise and genuine passion, leaving me feeling incredibly inspired and motivated. The collaborative environment fostered meaningful connections with like-minded professionals, amplifying the overall experience,” said Vincente Pass, Vice President of Growth and Partnerships at TechSparq.

Impact Accelerator program participants also build long-lasting and meaningful connections with fellow cohort participants and Salesforce leadership. Former cohort members even teamed up together to pursue joint partner success opportunities after meeting during Impact Accelerator events.

“We found the Impact Accelerator to be very helpful. There were many opportunities to network with Salesforce leaders and get an insider’s view of what it takes to be a successful partner in the ecosystem. The mentoring sessions were great as well because it helped us stay on track with our program activities. We also liked the opportunity to get to know other small business firms in the ecosystem. We have even paired up on an opportunity with one that I met for the first time in Phoenix,” said Nicale Nxumalo, CEO of Southpoint Consulting.

What’s more, many Impact Accelerator leaders from our first cohort reported having a stronger grasp on the keys to unlocking partner success with Salesforce after taking part in this free program.

“The Impact Accelerator program has proven invaluable to our organization. As a leader, I acquired a clear understanding of the behaviors and information needed to generate results when engaging with the Salesforce community. Our activities now have a focused intention, and the Impact Accelerator Program provided the clarity we needed,” said Stephanie Hagan, Founder and CEO of The CRM Firm.

Championing partner success

At Salesforce, we are passionate about supporting small and minority-owned businesses as well as business owners and founders from underrepresented communities within the ecosystem. Through the Impact Accelerator program, we empower partners to champion equity as they innovate to extend the power of the platform, connect with customers to drive efficient growth, and work with us to make Salesforce the #1 AI CRM company.

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants engage in a series of events that teach them how to align their business strategies with key motions and moments across Salesforce to grow their business. This includes empowering participants to leverage educational courses, networking events, contract opportunities, and program support.

Participants experience a wide variety of benefits including, but not limited to, customized content designed for their stage of business, mentorship from subject matter experts, and engagement with Salesforce’s marketing teams in support of their brand and messaging strategy. Partners are also given the opportunity to accelerate their growth by identifying unique business opportunities in the market that unlock new financial opportunities for their business.

At the end of the program, participants receive resources to further their learning, including access to LinkedIn groups, recorded webinars, and more.

How to apply

If you are a small or minority-owned business, apply today to join our next Impact Accelerator cohort. This is a can’t-miss opportunity to take on the path to partner success. To apply, complete the brief form on this site. Program leaders will review each application and follow up with candidates to review their submissions and discuss the next steps.

Can’t join this round? No worries! This program runs twice a year so you can always apply when you are ready. We look forward to helping your organization grow and thrive through this unique 12-week program.