Partners, Platforms, and Possibility: AI’s 7 Trillion Dollar Channel Opportunity
A Talk by Jay McBain (Chief Analyst, Canalys)
About this Talk
AI isn’t just another wave—it’s a fundamental shift that’s redefining how technology is bought, sold, and delivered. In this session, Canalys Chief Analyst Jay McBain outlines why we’re at a major inflection point for the channel, with a projected $7 trillion global AI buildout and $158 billion in partner services on the line. The conversation tackles what vendors, sellers, marketers, and partner leaders need to understand now: the rise of agentic AI, the collapse of traditional funnel thinking, the power of ecosystem influence, and the urgent need to rethink value beyond the point of sale.
Whether you're navigating layoffs, planning your next move, or leading a go-to-market team, this session delivers practical insight into what’s changing—and how to stay relevant.
Takeaways:
- What the $7T AI economy really means for channel sellers, marketers, and partner leaders
- How to align with the “28 moments” that shape modern B2B decision-making
- Why services and integration are outpacing products—and what that means for your strategy
- The role of agentic AI and automation in reclaiming time and scaling impact
- How to shift from product-first to partner-first messaging in a platform economy
Hosts
Co-Founder, Channel Marketing Association
Kathryn Rose is the founding CEO of award-winning global expert marketplaces, helping professionals tackle challenges through on-demand 1:1 access to top experts, education, and resources.
