Key Highlights of Tercera's 2025-2026 Research
Tercera, an investment and advisory firm dedicated to fostering growth in tech services, has recently released its insightful Tercera 30 research for the 2025-2026 period. This comprehensive study identifies the 30 standout software ecosystems that are expected to flourish in the upcoming years. According to Chris Barbin, CEO of Tercera, these ecosystems present significant opportunities for tech services firms aiming to adapt and thrive during the AI revolution.
Understanding the Tercera 30 Ecosystems
The Tercera 30 report classifies the featured software ecosystems into three main categories based on their maturity and potential for services partnerships.
Market Anchors
In the first category, “Market Anchors,” Tercera identifies well-established vendors with advanced partner ecosystems. These are the giants of the industry, sustaining a solid foundation and recognized influence.
- AWS
- Databricks
- Google Cloud
- Microsoft Azure
- Oracle
- Salesforce
- SAP
- ServiceNow
- Snowflake
- Workday
Market Movers
Next, the “Market Movers” category highlights large and mid-size vendors demonstrating excellent growth potential and evolving partnerships.
- Atlassian
- Dynatrace
- Contentstack
- Crowdstrike
- IBM
- Okta
- OneStream
- Palo Alto Networks
- Shopify
- Stripe
Market Builders
Finally, the third segment, “Market Builders,” showcases high-growth vendors with emerging partner ecosystems ready to make a significant impact.
- Anthropic
- Celonis
- commercetools
- MongoDB
- OpenAI
- Palantir
- Rubrik
- Saviynt
- ThoughtSpot
- Zscaler
Emerging Trends in Software Ecosystems
The Tercera 30 report goes beyond just identifying these ecosystems; it also sheds light on critical shifts in partner strategies. Below are some of the noteworthy trends observed.
The Rise of AI
One pivotal observation is the prevalent phenomenon of AI washing. As each vendor in the Tercera 30 race to develop AI agents, the landscape is becoming increasingly muddled. However, discerning partners can leverage this confusion to capitalize on genuine innovations within these ecosystems.
The Power of Data
Moreover, data platforms are becoming paramount within enterprise tech. Giants like Databricks and Snowflake are well-positioned to emerge as the next power players, fundamentally altering the competitive landscape.
Traditional Enterprises vs. AI-Native Competitors
Long-standing enterprises are now faced with challenges from newcomers that are built on AI principles. Commanders like Salesforce and SAP are strategically augmenting their R&D and pursuing acquisitions to maintain their dominance in a rapidly changing market.
Integration of Services and Software
Another crucial takeaway is the diminishing barriers between software and consulting services, thanks in part to AI advancements. This merging calls for a fresh approach to how partners engage with these dual roles.
Vertical Strategies for Success
Focusing on vertical strategies has proven beneficial for companies looking to take advantage of AI-related revenues. Vendors tailoring their offerings to meet specific industry demands are finding more lucrative avenues for partnership.
Tercera anticipates a surge in mergers and acquisitions, with over 40 acquisitions expected across the featured ecosystems. As technology firms navigate this landscape, services firms are likely to see themselves as crucial stakeholders in this evolution.
About Tercera
Tercera positions itself at the forefront of the $1.5 trillion IT services market. The firm comprises seasoned investors and operators who bring their vast experience and insights to support and nurture emerging service firms. Tercera provides essential capital, strategic guidance, and valuable connections that empower founders and executives to build prosperous ventures in today's AI-oriented environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tercera 30 report about?
The Tercera 30 report identifies the top software ecosystems poised for growth in the current AI era and provides insights on how services firms can engage with them.
Who leads Tercera?
Chris Barbin serves as the CEO of Tercera, guiding the firm's strategy to support tech services firms.
What are Market Anchors?
Market Anchors are large, established software vendors with mature partner ecosystems that are expected to maintain robust growth.
Why is AI washing a concern?
AI washing refers to the increasing trend of companies claiming to have AI capabilities without substantial innovations, leading to potential confusion in the marketplace.
How can firms leverage vertical strategies?
Focusing on specific industry sectors allows firms to tailor their services and create partnerships that align closely with particular market needs, generating more revenue opportunities.
