Google has officially launched its Google My Business (GMB) Featured Partners Program. Initially announced at the Local Search Association’s LSA18 event in May 2018, the program is designed to offer more support and access to approved agencies and providers that offer GMB services to local businesses.

For partners (below), benefits include customized support to match the needs of agencies and platforms, eligibility for early access to new Google My Business features and being listed in the Partner Directory. Agency partners have access to a personalized dashboard which allows them to maintain each clients’ business listing on Google. Approved platforms offering location management, marketing and/or customer service capabilities can combine GMB features within their product via the GMB API.

Once a company has applied, Google evaluates several different components to make sure that partnership is a fit. They also regularly monitor their featured partners to make sure that quality is maintained consistently. If a company fails to meet the requirements of the partnership, they can be removed from the program.

All applicants must have a Google account that’s associated with their company’s email. For those looking to sign up for this new program, you can submit an interest form here.