Welcome to the latest edition of our series, "Inside Our Portfolio", where we engage in insightful conversations with leaders shaping our portfolio and helping HPE bring new innovations to life. This series provides firsthand perspectives from those at the forefront of innovation and growth.

In this issue, Michele Fowler, Marketing Manager of Hewlett Packard Pathfinder, interviews Robin Braun, VP, AI Business Development for Hybrid Cloud at HPE who is leading transformative AI initiatives for enterprise and government clients.

MF: What is HPE’s Unleash AI partner program and why was it created?

RB: HPE’s Unleash AI partner program was created to establish an innovation ecosystem that can help our channel partners and customers accelerate their delivery of AI outcomes. We work with ISV partners to validate their software on HPE Private Cloud AI and other platforms to ensure a smooth experience with the customer. The program then extends to developing a joint GTM approach with each partner so that we can best share their unique value propositions and use cases.

MF: How does Unleash AI differ from a traditional incubator or accelerator?

RB: We’re excited to create a strong ISV ecosystem, but one that is focused on working with AI ISVs who have product availability and are ready to deploy and support an enterprise customer in production. Unlike a traditional incubator, we expect that at least the initial innovation idea and software strategy are in place and ready for positioning with channel partners and customers.

MF: How is Unleash AI integrated with HPE’s other startup programs like Hewlett Packard Pathfinder, HPE’s Technology Partner Program and HPE’s GTM teams?

RB: The Unleash AI program leverages the same contractual terms as HPE’s Technology Partner Program so that we can simplify the experience for our ISV partners in working across HPE. We are always interested in the recommendations from the Hewlett Packard Pathfinder program, as they have such an informed view across the emerging technology environment. One of our Unleash AI goals is to create the One HPE approach for our partners and customers who are looking for business outcomes powered by AI.

MF: What types of startups are the best fit for Unleash AI, and what do you look for in a potential participant?

RB: One important consideration when working with a startup is whether they can install on-prem or even in an air-gapped environment. While we anticipate most customer environments will be hybrid, we ensure that our Unleash AI offerings can provide the option of being supported on HPE infrastructure as part of an enterprise-grade solution. We also evaluate the partner offerings for potential customer appeal and technical innovation.

MF: How does Unleash AI help early-stage AI startups accelerate their go-to-market strategy with HPE and enterprise customers?

RB: The Unleash AI program works with AI startups to showcase their marketing collateral and fine-tune their use case message to be better understood by sellers and customers alike. We also help connect companies with target channel partners who are aligned from a vertical, geographical and use-case perspective. The focus from Unleash AI is on activation and engagement to help drive growth for all parties.

MF: Are there any early success stories or promising partnerships you can share from the first Unleash cohort?

RB: As we just announced the first Unleash AI partner cohort at the end of June, it’s still early to have completed sales cycles, however the interest has been off the charts from HPE and the Channel. We are excited for the engagement and encourage everyone to watch this space for upcoming announcements in the next few weeks and months!

MF: What’s next for Unleash AI — where do you see the program heading as the AI landscape continues to evolve?

RB: The Unleash AI program will continue to evolve as AI evolves. We will regularly evaluate which partners we choose to ensure coverage of our customers’ needs and emerging technologies. The program will expand, while some companies may naturally fall out due to acquisition or change in their strategy. We are excited to work with our partners into the future!

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