Eric Torres, an evangelist at PAX8, discussed his role in community engagement and upcoming events, including the Partner Conference Beyond in Denver with 3,000 attendees. PAX8 differentiates itself from traditional distribution models by focusing on cloud marketplace services and providing value-added training programs, which have led to significant EBITDA growth for MSPs. Torres emphasized that PAX8's cloud-based services are not directly impacted by tariffs, unlike traditional MSPs. He also praised the NerdioCon conference for its growth and impact in the industry.

You are not imagining it. It’s getting emotionally spongey out there for MSPs processing the current economy. In this blog and podcast, I document this assertion with “facts” from Canalys analyst Jay McBain and ConnectWise/Service Leadership EVP Peter Kujawa in his new research (stick with me and listen to our podcast about this matter). 

First - Jay McBain’s take. His team has documented using their research methods. I really don’t curate content ala “copy and paste” but I do the old CTRL-C and CTRL-V this time ‘cause I couldn’t say it any better if I tried: 

The expert panel discussed the 2025 forecast, focusing on key topics including DMARC, Microsoft Action Pack deadlines, and sustainable technology. Andre Leroux emphasized the importance of DMARC for email deliverability, highlighting the need for SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records. Alex Fields and Nakia Carter explained the transition from Microsoft Action Pack to new partner benefits, including cloud and on-prem software licenses, CRM, and marketing tools. They also discussed the challenges and benefits of AI, particularly Co-Pilot, in enterprise and SMB environments, stressing the need for proper training and data protection.

Michael George discussed the evolution and future of Syncro, a company he joined in early 2024. Syncro aims to create a world-class RMM and PSA combined platform, leveraging the significant market share of Microsoft in the small to medium business sector. George highlighted the upcoming announcement of a new product category at the Kaseya conference, focusing on simplifying IT stacks and enhancing security. He emphasized the importance of AI in cybersecurity and the need for MSPs to stay ahead of evolving threats. George also mentioned Syncro's presence in Austin, Texas, and his personal experiences living between Boston and Naples, Florida.

Harry Brelsford interviews Oguo Atuanya, Corporate Vice President of Vendor Experience at PAX8, following the PAX Sait conference in Denver. Atuanya discusses PAX8's strategy to shift towards outcome-based solutions for SMBs through MSPs, emphasizing the importance of complete portfolios and leveraging AI to improve productivity and security. Atuanya brings 22 years of experience from Microsoft, where he managed go-to-market channels for SMBs in the Americas.

At the recent Px8 Beyond 2025 event, I found a few moments to meet with Carolyn April, Vice President, Research and Market Intelligence at GTIA (formerly CompTIA). She gave me the following advanced insights into her latest research on SMB Tech Buying Tech Trends. Her work is ongoing and her final research will be released at the GTIA ChannelCon event in Nashville in late July (join me!)

Let’s get started with SMB fun facts and then the top five takeaways.

 The SMB MSP community was built on exactly that: community. Over the epoch from SBS and beyond, we’ve always come together in different ways depending on the need. Here are a few past and present examples. 

 MSP Navy

We rallied the geeks to assist with Hurricanes Katrina and Harvey. In NOLA with Katrina it was legendary SBS MVP Jeff Middleton leading the way in his hometown. So inspired we were that a few SBSers went to New Orleans to assist. 

Mine is “Far From Home” by Lisa Murkowski and Charles Wohlforth. It’s the story of senior US Senator Murkowski’s journey growing up in Alaska to a long-time tenure in the US Senate. I’ve just completed chapter one and will periodically check-in with you from bucolic coffee shops in the Texas Hill Country. Such is life as we recover from the devastating floods in the region. 

Overview

Harry Brelsford and Dux Raymond Sy discuss the latest developments at Avepoint, a global leader in data security, data resilience, and data governance. AvePoint has introduced new features on its Elements platform to help managed service providers (MSPs) scale their business in data security and IT management across various platforms like Microsoft, Google, and Salesforce. Dux, the Chief Brand Officer, highlights the importance of data security for AI and the company's 20-year history. He also mentions AvePoint partner program, launched three years ago, and its success in helping partners build new services and recurring revenue. Dux shares his recent travels to Europe and emphases the growing demand for AI and data security solutions.