The software market is booming in 2024, with revenue projected to grow at a rate of 10% annually through 2027. This explosive growth means more businesses than ever are looking for ways to become software resellers, which is a lucrative opportunity. If you’re interested in a software reseller program, you’re in the right place!
Whether you’re looking to resell software or start a new business, this guide will help you explore the best reseller opportunities available. The software industry offers great potential, with software resellers earning steady commissions by selling software solutions to businesses and individuals alike. But how do you choose the right program? And what exactly is a software reseller program? Let’s dive in.
What are Software Reseller Programs?
A software reseller program converts that into a business or a way for people to sell third-party software products, acting as middlemen between the supplier of such software and the customer. Such types of software programs are designed to allow software resellers to gain licenses to software at special or discounted rates and then sell that to particular customers at a profit. In some cases, the software can be branded under the reseller’s name, known as white label software, or it may remain under the original developer’s branding, depending on the terms of the software reseller agreement.
In this model, resellers can offer more than just the software itself. Unlike simpler models, such as affiliate programs where you refer customers to a vendor for commission, software resellers often engage in more hands-on services. This would include technical support, training, and implementation services that show how the software fits the specific needs of the customer. Sometimes, resellers are allowed to customize the product, increasing the value they can offer to their clients. To this end, they both sell and provide a service in support: a liaison between the software developer and the end.
Also, the structure and terms of software reseller agreements can be very different. Some provide very decent commissions, while others offer more reasonable rates with bulk license purchases. One of the main things to be considered in any reseller agreement is the degree of control the reseller has over pricing, branding, and customer management. Many resellers who use white label software programs have much more control over these elements; standard programs may be more limited.
Software Reseller vs. SaaS Program vs. Affiliate Program
When entering the software market, it’s important to differentiate between software reseller programs, SaaS programs, and affiliate programs. While each provides an opportunity to generate revenue, they differ in how much involvement is required and how earnings are structured.
Software Reseller Program
In basic terms, a software reseller program is actually about purchasing software licenses at a better price and then selling the same to customers with a margin. Resellers often have quite an open hand in pricing, branding, and sometimes even product customization. As a fact, most white label software reseller programs actually let you sell the product as your own—fully rebranding the same. This model involves it a bit more than other sales channels since the reseller often maintains customer relationships, provides support, and sometimes does customizations or integrations.
In most cases, a software reseller contract or agreement outlines the terms, including the reseller’s responsibilities and the revenue-sharing model. Resellers earn commissions or keep the profit margins between the purchase price and the sale price. Because the reseller may need to handle customer support, it’s a more hands-on role compared to other models.
Additionally, resellers in this program often work under software reseller agreements that detail pricing structures, commissions, and service obligations. While the reseller’s involvement is greater, so is the earning potential, especially when selling enterprise-level or subscription-based software.
SaaS Program
A SaaS program focuses on selling cloud-based software subscriptions. Rather than dealing with one-time sales of software licenses, SaaS resellers typically help customers subscribe to ongoing services, like cloud storage or project management platforms. SaaS programs are often based on a subscription model, which means resellers can earn recurring revenue over time as long as customers remain subscribed to the service.
However, SaaS programs are usually less involved than traditional reseller models. Because the software is hosted and managed by the vendor, the reseller doesn’t need to worry about installations, updates, or technical support—the software provider handles those tasks. The reseller’s primary role is to bring in new customers and possibly assist with some onboarding processes.
One downside of SaaS programs is that resellers may not have the same level of control over branding or pricing as they would in a white label software reseller program. SaaS providers typically maintain full control over the platform’s look, feel, and price, limiting the reseller’s customization options.
However, the tradeoff is that SaaS programs can generate stable, long-term income through recurring subscriptions, making them a good fit for resellers who want to build a passive income stream without too much hands-on involvement. Additionally, resellers might still offer value-added services such as training or consulting for customers.
Affiliate Program
An affiliate program is by far the least involved model of the three. Affiliates don’t actually sell the software themselves but rather promote it through referral links or promotional campaigns. Affiliates are compensated based on the sales they generate through these referrals, typically earning a one-time commission for each successful sale.
Because affiliates aren’t responsible for handling customer support, pricing, or software delivery, this model is ideal for those who want to earn passive income with minimal involvement. However, the earnings potential is usually lower than that of resellers or SaaS programs. Unlike software resellers, who can earn recurring income from subscriptions, affiliates typically receive a one-time payment for each referred customer.
The simplicity of affiliate programs makes them attractive to those who want to focus purely on marketing without dealing with post-sale obligations. However, this also limits long-term earning potential, as affiliates don’t benefit from ongoing customer relationships, subscription renewals, or brand loyalty.
Pros and Cons of Software Reseller Programs
The pros and cons of software reseller programs can help you weigh the benefits of increased revenue streams, flexible offerings, and low startup costs against potential challenges like dependency on vendors, market competition, and customer support responsibilities.
Pros:
- High-Profit Margins: One of the biggest advantages of being a software reseller is the potential for high-profit margins. Especially with white label software to resell, resellers have the flexibility to set their prices, allowing for greater markups. By rebranding the software and positioning it as your product, you have more control over the pricing, which can significantly increase your revenue. This level of control makes white label programs especially appealing to businesses looking to offer tailored solutions without the costs of development.
- Flexibility and Scalability: Software reseller programs often offer flexible business models that can easily scale as your company grows. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, you can adjust your offerings based on the specific needs of your clients. For example, if you’re working with a startup, you might offer basic software solutions, but for a larger company, you could provide advanced features and services. The ability to cater to various client sizes and needs ensures you can grow alongside your customer base without having to reinvent your business model.
- Recurring Revenue: If you choose to resell SaaS-based solutions, one of the most appealing aspects is the potential for recurring revenue. Instead of earning a one-time payment for selling a product, you can benefit from continuous income as customers renew their subscriptions. This model creates a more sustainable and predictable revenue stream. As long as you maintain strong customer relationships and provide excellent service, this recurring income can become the foundation of your business’s financial stability.
- Low Startup Costs: Joining a software reseller program generally requires minimal upfront investment, especially when compared to the cost of developing your software. Most of the expenses involved in reselling software come from marketing, sales, and perhaps a bit of customization work if you’re using a white label program. Since you’re not responsible for developing or maintaining the software itself, you can focus your resources on building a customer base and scaling your sales efforts.
- Brand Ownership with White-Labeling: Through white label software reseller programs, businesses can establish their own brand identity by selling software under their name. This allows you to build stronger relationships with customers, who see you as the primary provider of the solution. Over time, this can enhance customer loyalty, market positioning, and overall trust in your business. Establishing a brand through white label software gives you a powerful competitive edge, especially in markets where trust and recognition are important.
Cons:
- Dependence on the Software Vendor: While being a reseller gives you many benefits, it also ties you to the software vendor. This dependency can sometimes be a double-edged sword. For example, if the vendor experiences technical issues, delays updates, or makes sudden pricing changes, your business could be negatively impacted. If the vendor decides to discontinue the product or implement changes that don’t align with your customer needs, you may face challenges that are out of your control. Being locked into a software reseller agreement means you must rely on the vendor’s roadmap and stability.
- Customer Support Burden: One of the challenges of being a software reseller is the potential responsibility for customer support, depending on the terms of your software reseller contract. While some vendors provide customer support directly to end users, others may require the reseller to offer this service. If you’re responsible for technical support, you may need to invest in hiring support staff, training them, and handling customer inquiries. This can increase your operational costs and time commitment, particularly if the software you’re reselling requires regular troubleshooting or has a steep learning curve for users.
- Market Competition: The software reseller space is highly competitive, with many businesses entering the market and offering similar solutions. To stand out, you’ll need to differentiate your services, whether through exceptional customer support, unique pricing models, or additional features like consultation and integration services. In highly saturated markets, finding a niche or adding value through customization, implementation, or support can help you differentiate yourself from other resellers. However, staying competitive requires constant innovation and investment in your business.
- Revenue Sharing: While software resellers can achieve significant profits, the revenue-sharing agreements with the vendor can limit your overall earnings. In most software reseller agreements, you only get a portion of the total sale, with the rest going to the software vendor. This means that, depending on the contract, you may need to sell more to achieve the same revenue compared to selling your product. Additionally, in some cases, the vendor might raise prices, which could impact your margins or make it harder to remain competitive.
How to Choose a Software Reseller Program?
Choosing the right software reseller program can be challenging, especially with so many options available. Your decision should be based on a clear understanding of your business goals, target audience, and the type of software you want to offer. Here are some key factors to consider in more detail:
1. Profit Margins
The first thing to evaluate is how much profit you can realistically make from the program. Not all software reseller programs are created equal, and the profit margins can vary significantly. Some programs allow resellers to keep a high percentage of the sale price—this is especially common in white label or custom software programs, where you have more control over the pricing.
For example, if you’re selling cybersecurity software through a white label software reseller model, you might be able to mark up the price significantly while keeping a large portion of the profits.
Evaluate the overall revenue potential and whether the program aligns with your pricing strategy and business growth plans. The commission structure should reward your efforts but also give you the flexibility to price competitively in the market.
For instance, if you are part of a software developer reseller program offering customized solutions, you may have more flexibility in setting your margins and adding additional services.
2. Reputation of the Vendor
The vendor’s reputation plays a huge role in the success of your reseller business. Partnering with a reputable software vendor will make your job easier when it comes to marketing and customer retention. A well-established vendor with positive reviews and a proven track record of providing reliable software is far more attractive to customers.
For instance, software for resellers from industry giants like Salesforce or Microsoft is often easier than promoting a less-known brand because these companies have established themselves as leaders in their fields. Customers are already familiar with their products, making them easier to sell.
Do some research on the vendor’s background—check reviews, customer testimonials, and industry reports. A vendor that regularly updates its software and offers solid customer support will be much easier to work with, both for you and your clients.
3. Customization and White Labeling
If your goal is to build your brand, look for white label software reseller programs. White labeling allows you to rebrand the software entirely as your own, giving you full control over the product’s appearance and marketing. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that want to offer a seamless, branded experience to their customers.
For example, if you’re reselling a marketing automation platform, offering it under your brand name, logo, and customizations can strengthen customer loyalty. Customers often prefer dealing with one trusted provider rather than realizing the product is outsourced. This strategy enhances your brand’s visibility and can lead to greater customer retention.
Customization can also go beyond just branding. Some custom software reseller programs allow you to tweak certain features or integrate additional services like consulting and support. This can be especially valuable when selling to larger clients who require tailored solutions.
4. Customer Support
One of the most important aspects of reselling software is customer support. If your vendor provides strong customer support to resellers and end users, it can save you time and reduce stress. Some vendors will even handle technical support on your behalf, which can be a major selling point for resellers who can’t manage it themselves.
For instance, programs like PureVPN’s software reseller program offer 24/7 customer support for end users, meaning resellers don’t have to worry about troubleshooting issues for their clients. However, if the responsibility of providing support falls on you, ensure you have the resources or infrastructure to handle it efficiently. Also, make sure your vendor provides you with enough training and resources to resolve common issues.
Look for a vendor that offers marketing materials, technical documentation, sales training, and ongoing customer support. Having a solid partnership with a vendor that provides comprehensive support will enable you to focus on growing your business rather than dealing with technical issues.
5. Contract Terms
Only sign a software reseller contract after thoroughly reviewing the terms. Contracts can vary in complexity, and you’ll want to ensure that the terms align with your business model and long-term objectives. Important factors to look out for include commission rates, exclusivity clauses, contract length, and the ability to exit the agreement if the partnership isn’t working out. Especially in software as a service agreements, ensure that terms related to renewals and pricing are clear to avoid misunderstandings with your customers.
For example, if the program requires you to commit to a long-term partnership or imposes exclusivity, it may limit your ability to partner with other software vendors. Conversely, non-exclusive agreements provide more flexibility, allowing you to offer multiple solutions to your clients. Additionally, make sure the contract is clear about responsibilities related to pricing, customer support, and software updates.
Some contracts may include clauses that limit how you can market or price the product. Pay attention to those limitations and ensure they won’t hinder your ability to succeed. Also, check if there are any penalties for breaking the contract early or if the vendor requires minimum sales quotas.
6. Scalability
Scalability is crucial when choosing a software reseller program, especially if you plan to grow your business over time. Not all software solutions or programs can scale easily to accommodate larger clients or new markets, so it’s essential to choose a program that can expand as your client base grows. Many software value-added reseller programs are designed with scalability in mind, allowing you to expand your offerings as your customer base grows.
For example, if you start by reselling to small businesses, ensure that the software has the functionality to support medium or large enterprises as well. SaaS-based solutions tend to be more scalable since they often allow users to upgrade to higher tiers or add new features as their needs grow.
Consider both the technical scalability of the software and the scalability of your partnership with the vendor. Will the vendor continue to offer competitive pricing as your volume of sales increases? Can you add more licenses or features without significant changes to the contract terms? The best software reseller programs offer flexibility, allowing you to expand your offerings and adjust to new market demands easily.
Top 10 Software Reseller Programs for 2025
Now that you have a better understanding of how software reseller programs work let’s explore the top 10 reseller programs for 2024. These programs are selected based on their market reputation, commission structures, ease of customization, and support offerings.
1. PureVPN Reseller Program
PureVPN is one of the leading VPN providers, with over 3 million users worldwide. Their software reseller program is ideal for businesses looking to resell white label VPN services. You can rebrand their VPN software under your name and offer it as a customized solution. With the high demand for online privacy and security, this custom software reseller program provides excellent profit margins. Resellers can also choose between different commission models, including recurring revenue from subscription renewals.
PureVPN’s white label software reseller program allows you to offer your customers secure internet access, private browsing, and robust data protection. With an easy-to-use platform and comprehensive customer support, you can quickly launch your VPN business. The flexibility of the program and the increasing demand for VPN services make it one of the best software reseller programs in 2024.
2. Microsoft Partner Network
The Microsoft Partner Network is one of the most comprehensive reseller programs available. With a wide range of software products like Office 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure, resellers can offer powerful tools for business productivity, cloud computing, and enterprise resource management. Microsoft offers multiple tiers in its software reseller program, from direct reselling to value added reseller software partnerships. The network is flexible, allowing resellers to choose between direct reseller models, where they sell existing Microsoft products, or value added reseller software programs, where they customize Microsoft solutions for clients. Resellers in this network benefit from extensive support, including technical training, sales support, and co-marketing initiatives. With Microsoft’s products being a staple in most businesses worldwide, this is a great program for software resellers looking for a trusted partner.
3. McAfee Security Reseller Program
In a world where cybersecurity threats are constantly growing, partnering with a trusted name like McAfee offers excellent business potential. The McAfee Security Reseller Program allows businesses to resell McAfee’s well-known antivirus, endpoint security, and cloud security solutions. Resellers can offer these solutions to both individual consumers and businesses. The program is highly suited for software resellers focused on cybersecurity, given the rising demand for high-quality protection software.
As a reseller, you’ll have access to McAfee’s vast library of marketing and training resources, which will help you market their products successfully. The program offers competitive commission rates and recurring revenue opportunities with subscription renewals, making it an appealing choice for both new and established software resellers.
4. Adobe Solutions Partner Program
Adobe’s software reseller program is another excellent choice for businesses looking to offer creative and document management solutions. Adobe’s Creative Cloud and Document Cloud are essential tools for professionals in various industries, including graphic design, photography, video editing, and document management. Adobe’s partner program allows resellers to sell these software packages to their clients and offer value-added services such as training, integration, and support.
Adobe’s software reseller contract includes generous commissions and a tiered rewards system for resellers based on their sales performance. Adobe also provides extensive sales and marketing support, ensuring that resellers have the resources they need to succeed.
5. Shopify Partner Program
The e-commerce industry has seen massive growth in recent years, making Shopify’s software reseller program a highly lucrative opportunity. Shopify’s program allows resellers to help businesses build online stores and manage their e-commerce operations. The Shopify Partner Program offers a variety of ways to earn revenue, including referral fees for new customers, commissions on store subscriptions, and income from providing design, development, or marketing services to Shopify users.
Resellers in the Shopify program can offer additional custom software reseller programs by creating tailored solutions for different industries. The platform’s ease of use, scalability, and large customer base make Shopify a top choice for resellers focusing on the e-commerce industry.
6. Zoho Partner Program
Zoho provides a comprehensive suite of business applications, including CRM, project management, and finance tools. The Zoho Partner Program enables resellers to offer these tools to businesses in need of efficient, scalable, and affordable software solutions. Zoho’s software reseller program allows partners to sell software licenses and earn commissions on both one-time purchases and recurring subscriptions.
The program is ideal for software resellers who want to provide value-added services like implementation, customization, and ongoing support. With Zoho’s extensive library of tools, resellers can build customized solutions for businesses of all sizes.
7. Cisco Meraki Reseller Program
Cisco’s Meraki suite provides cloud-managed IT solutions, including networking, security, and communications tools. The Cisco Meraki Reseller Program allows resellers to offer these services to clients looking for scalable, secure, and easy-to-manage IT solutions. Meraki’s cloud-based systems make it particularly appealing to businesses with remote or distributed workforces, a growing trend in today’s business environment.
As a Cisco Meraki reseller, you can sell networking and security hardware and software solutions, offering a high-margin reseller software opportunity. Cisco offers extensive sales and technical training, ensuring that resellers are well-equipped to help clients deploy, manage, and maintain their Meraki solutions.
8. VMware Partner Program
VMware is known for its expertise in virtualization and cloud computing solutions, making its software reseller program a valuable option for businesses targeting clients in need of advanced IT infrastructure. The VMware Partner Program allows resellers to offer solutions in cloud computing, network virtualization, and digital workspace technologies.
Resellers in VMware’s program benefit from competitive margins, technical training, and ongoing support. VMware’s industry reputation and its widespread adoption among enterprises make this program an excellent choice for software resellers focusing on IT infrastructure and digital transformation solutions.
9. Autodesk Reseller Program
Autodesk’s software solutions, such as AutoCAD and Revit, are widely used in industries like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. The Autodesk Reseller Program allows partners to sell these software tools and offer value-added services like installation, training, and ongoing support. Autodesk’s products are essential for professionals who need powerful design and drafting tools, and demand for these products continues to grow.
The Autodesk program provides software resellers with generous margins on software sales, along with support resources to help them succeed. By offering Autodesk’s industry-leading tools, resellers can provide high-value solutions to clients while earning substantial profits.
10. Intuit QuickBooks Reseller Program
Intuit’s QuickBooks is one of the most popular accounting software solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. The Intuit QuickBooks Reseller Program allows partners to resell QuickBooks software and offer related services like training, setup, and support. Businesses widely use QuickBooks for tasks like bookkeeping, tax preparation, and payroll, making it a go-to solution for SMBs.
Resellers can earn commissions on both software sales and recurring subscription fees, providing a steady stream of income. The program also offers marketing materials, training, and technical support to help software resellers succeed.
Conclusion
The world of software reselling offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses alike. With the right software reseller program, you can build a profitable business, provide valuable solutions to your customers, and expand your service offerings. Whether you choose to resell software through a white label model or as a value-added reseller, the opportunities in 2024 are abundant.
Each of the programs listed above offers unique advantages, from robust training and support to the ability to provide custom or branded software solutions. By selecting the right program, you can leverage the booming software market and generate consistent revenue for your business.