Google launches SME partner scheme for digital ads

Google launched a Small and Medium Enterprises partner programme and said it plans to have 30 channel partners for selling digital advertising solutions to SMEs across 100 cities in India.

"We are launching this programme where the intent is to have 30 large-scale channel partners and these partners by the end of 2013 should cover top 100 cities in India and should have 10,000 people on the street selling Google products," Google India, Managing Director and Vice President - Sales, Rajan Anandan told reporters.

It is estimated that the SME advertising market in India is worth $1.2 billion, of which digital ads contribute $100 million.

Google India has already shortlisted six partners and has been working with them to help ramp up their sales force through training programmes. Through the programme, Google India will provide specialised services to SMEs to grow their businesses through digital advertising.

The channel partners will be trained to offer expertise and proficiency in developing, launching and managing digital campaigns for small and medium sized businesses.

These partners will offer end-to-end marketing solutions including search engine marketing, localised marketing solutions across Google properties and mobile advertising platform.

"Our SME business has seen phenomenal growth in India, making us the fastest growing SME market for Google globally," Anandan said.

He added India is a strategic market for Google and the company will continue to invest in other capacity building initiative through their existing Google Engage platform. This platform is focused on training and supporting businesses that specialise in helping other SMEs succeed online.