Don't leave Co-op funds on the table
If you're a Microsoft Partner in the US, there's a decent chance you're sitting on Co-op dollars you haven't touched yet. We talk to partners every quarter who assume Co-op is small change, then find out it's thousands of dollars that just expired unclaimed.
Microsoft Co-op funds (you'll also see them written as 'coop funds' or MCI co-op) are earned through the Microsoft Commerce Incentive program and sit alongside your rebate. They're a different pot from MDF, and they don't carry over - unspent Co-op is gone at the end of each half, not banked for next time.
That expiry clock is the whole problem. Whether you're a regional systems integrator in the Midwest or a national managed services provider, the fund resets on the same schedule, and most US partners only think about it when the deadline is already close.
This guide exists because we kept fielding the same questions from partners across the country: what counts, how much you can actually access, and how to submit a claim that doesn't bounce back from Partner Center. Use it to make sure this half's dollars don't disappear.
What's inside?
A complete walkthrough of how to plan, claim and get more from your Microsoft Partner Co-op funds.
Understanding Co-op funds
What Co-op dollars are for, how they differ from MDF, and how US partners typically put them to work building demand for Microsoft solutions.
Earning & claiming funds
How the claim mechanics actually work: incur the cost against an eligible activity first, then file the claim in Partner Center with the paperwork Microsoft expects.
The claims process
A stage-by-stage walkthrough from submission to approval, including the mistakes that get US partner claims kicked back or rejected outright.
How Co-op funds can be used
Four practical categories where Microsoft Partner Co-op funds can be put to work.
Marketing agencies & consultants
Partners can claim for the use of marketing agencies who deliver marketing on their behalf. This includes one-off campaigns as well as ongoing retainer relationships.
Operational support
Partners can claim the cost of support in managing their Microsoft relationship, for example Partner Center healthcheck reports or an outsourced alliances-as-a-service function.
External training
Partners can claim for the use of a third-party training provider to deliver training to their teams - and to their customers or prospects - around Microsoft solutions.
Events
Partners can claim the cost of hosting an event aimed at net-new Microsoft business, plus tickets to Microsoft-hosted events like Microsoft Ignite or the AI Tour stops that come through US cities.
We see it all the time, partners forfeit thousands in Co-op funds. Not because they don't have a need for them, but because they don't know they have them, or how to access or use them in Partner Center.
Frequently asked questions
What are Microsoft Partner Co-op funds?
Co-op funds are a benefit of the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program (MAICPP), given to partners to fund marketing that builds awareness of Microsoft solutions and grows their business, from a healthcare-focused ISV in Boston to a manufacturing-sector VAR in the Midwest.
How can Co-op funds be used?
Co-op funds can be used for Partner Skilling, Demand Generation, and Market Development activities - training, digital advertising, email marketing, and customer workshops are common examples for US partners.
How are Co-op funds earned?
Through participation in the Microsoft Commerce Incentive (MCI) program. Once a partner's incentive earnings pass $10,000 USD in a half, those earnings split into rebate and Co-op funds.
How do I claim Co-op funds?
Incur the cost against an eligible activity, then file the claim through the Partner Center portal. Microsoft typically reimburses about 60 days after it assesses the claim.
What POE (Proof of Execution) do I need?
Usually screenshots or photos proving the activity actually ran. We recommend packaging it as a short PDF report covering what happened and the results, so a reviewer isn't hunting for evidence.
What happens if I don't spend all of my funds?
Unsuccessful claims and unused funds are forfeited once the 45-day grace period after the usage period ends. There's no extension and no rollover, so don't let it slip past the deadline.
Download the guide
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