Private Island

Microsoft relies on its partner network for nearly 95% of its total revenue. Within that ecosystem, Channel Ambassadors play a vital role. These Microsoft-funded team members are embedded in partner organizations to coach sales teams, provide training, and accelerate co-selling opportunities.

To succeed, Channel Ambassadors need to stay up to speed on Microsoft’s ever-evolving product stack. That’s the purpose of Microsoft Align, an annual enablement event built just for them.

Like many organizations, Microsoft had shifted to a digital-first format in recent years. But with that shift came new challenges, particularly around keeping attendance strong and experiences memorable. This year’s goal: maintain the virtual format, but raise the bar on engagement.

Our target audience was clear: Channel Ambassadors across North America. Our challenge was to deliver an experience that felt unlike any webinar. Something immersive, energizing, and worthy of their time.

So, we built a private island in the metaverse.

The environment featured a modern glass-walled conference center, courtyards for casual networking, and private meeting rooms for side chats. Ambassadors could race speedboats, compete in scavenger hunts, and bond over light-hearted games like charades and Pictionary.

Attendees created avatars and received a full orientation package to help them join “the world.” Once inside, they navigated keynotes, breakout tracks, and surprise social moments that sparked real connection. Everything from invitations to gamification was designed with ease of access and simplicity in mind.

We more than doubled the expected attendance rate, achieving 96% live participation from Channel Ambassadors, surpassing the stretch goal by 128%.

Feedback was overwhelming. One attendee called it “the best virtual experience I’ve ever seen.” Others stayed until the very end for a surprise celebration, complete with fireworks and a dance-off.

Engagement was through the roof. Questions poured in, best practices were openly shared, and the community felt more connected than ever.