2021 MSP 501 Deadline May 24 — Apply Now!

The 2021 Channel Futures MSP 501 is officially open for submissions. This kicks off the 14th year of the IT channel’s first, largest and most comprehensive survey and ranking of managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide.

Every year, MSPs from around the globe throw their hats in the ring to see how they stack up against their peers. The MSP 501 has evolved from a ranking of a handful of partners to an insightful, data-rich, full report that does more than name the top MSPs in the world; it shows you how they got there. Expect 2021 to be our most captivating year yet.

Since the inception of the MSP 501 14 years ago, winners have been ranked by annual revenue from the previous year. Last year, we decided it was time to re-evaluate our methodology and align it with market trends. Concerning the 2021 application, we have some exciting new judging criteria and a new methodology to judge applicants based on market trends and business best practices.

So, will you make the cut to become a 501er? There’s only one way to find out. Check out our FAQs below, then stand up and be counted in the 2021 Channel Futures MSP 501 survey and rankings!

2021 MSP 501 Application FAQs

Where do I access the survey?

To apply for the 2021 MSP 501, click here.

Can I see the survey application before beginning the submission process?

To download a PDF of the 2021 MSP 501 survey, please click here.

Can I save my progress and return to finish later?

The survey platform defaults to “save.” As long as have cookies enabled and are continuing the application on the same device, you can come back later to complete the survey/form.

Can I edit my answers?

Applicants can back up in the survey and adjust data as needed before clicking on the Submit button. Once you submit an application, we consider it to be final.

Will I receive a copy of my answers?

Upon submittal, applicants who provide their email address when prompted will receive a confirmation email that contains a PDF copy of their responses. We highly suggest you save this PDF for your records.

What do you need for revenue verification?

Download the MSP 501 revenue verification form here, or within the survey. It must be completed with the revenue numbers you have self-reported and signed by a certified financial professional or member of your company’s executive team. You may not submit an application for the 2021 MSP 501 without first uploading the verification document.

Will you disclose my company’s financial information?

Channel Futures/Channel Partners will not disclose specific annual revenue information such as revenue dollars. However, we reserve the right to publish company growth rates based on the private revenue data you submit.

What if I have technical difficulties?

For help troubleshooting your application, please email [email protected] and our team will get back to you shortly. For help with site registration, please email [email protected].

When does the survey close?

The 2021 MSP 501 will close for applications at 11:59 p.m. EST on Monday, May 24.

When will Channel Futures announce the winners?

501 winners will be announced in June 2021 – exact date TBD – in our reveal webcast and on Channel Futures. Special award winners will be announced in July. All will be honored at our annual MSP 501 Awards Gala in November at the Channel Partners Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

How do you evaluate applications to arrive at the rankings?

We use a proprietary algorithm that weighs different revenue streams according to how representative they are of modern business models and forward-thinking managed services strategies.

Can I apply if my company is outside of the traditional managed services business model?

In response to demand from telecom agents, resellers, digital agencies and other non-MSP channel partners that are spinning up managed services practices, we last year launched the NextGen 101, an MSP 501 list. The NextGen 101 recognizes outstanding partners from outside of the traditional managed services business model that are devoting energy and resources to building out recurring managed services revenue streams and creating the channel partner powerhouses of the future. If you’re hoping to earn a coveted spot on the NextGen 101, just apply for the 2021 MSP 501 and you will be automatically submitted for both lists.

What if I can’t remember what I entered last year?

2020 applicants that provided a valid email address and have not opted out of Channel Futures/Informa marketing communications will receive a unique URL that directs them to a company-specific survey with certain pre-populated, editable information such as company information, social handles and self-reported 2018 revenue numbers. For further questions, please email [email protected].

What will winners receive in their award packages?

MSPs that earn a place on the 501 will receive an award package that includes the MSP 501 winners logo; a press release template to announce the win; suggested social media posts; and a Q&A form that winners can return to the MSP 501 editorial team that may be used as the basis for a company profile. Winners of divisional lists such as MSSP, SMB and regional lists will receive separate additional packages.

Where can I learn more?

The MSP 501 has its own landing page on the Channel Futures site. All updates and editorial coverage of the survey and 501ers will be promoted on MSP 501 social channels:

If you have questions or issues not answered here, please email the MSP 501 editorial team at [email protected]. Thanks for your interest, get in there, and best of luck!