Key Takeaways
- HubSpot tiers (Silver to Elite) indicate an agency’s expertise and results.
- Higher-tier HubSpot partner agencies handle more clients but may not suit smaller businesses.
- Certification and performance metrics (like MRR and client retention) determine HubSpot partner tiers.
- A certified HubSpot agency ensures proven inbound marketing success.
- Choose a partner aligned with your business size and goals, not just the highest HubSpot tier.
Choosing to use a HubSpot partner for your inbound agency can benefit your business in so many ways. Here’s everything you need to know.
Inbound marketing can yield exceptional results and take a brand to the next level - but it has to be executed right. If you've been looking for an inbound agency to assist you in getting these results, you've probably come across the term "HubSpot Partner".
You may have also noticed that there are different HubSpot Partner tiers These tiers range from Silver to Elite, but no matter which level an agency is at, they have to have happy clients who have campaigns that deliver on their goals to qualify.
The Partner Tier program is designed to acknowledge those Agency Partners who have not only brought the inbound message to the most clients, but also those who executed inbound marketing services to the highest standards." -
HubSpot
Why should you care about an agency's HubSpot tier level?
It's simple - the world of HubSpot is a community and a HubSpot tier status isn’t just a flashy statement to bolster the brand. While statuses like this are designed to benefit the agency, with HubSpot it's also designed to ensure that clients are getting the best possible results.
The HubSpot partner programme requires an agency to not only be an expert in the tool but also execute inbound marketing services to the highest standards. At the end of the day, anyone can learn to use the tool and create an inbound strategy but you want an agency that is experienced and knows how to get you real results.
What's the difference between each tier level?
There are five-tier levels: Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Elite. The first thing an agency needs to qualify for tiers (to start as Silver) is a valid Agency Partner Certification and more than three team members using the tool across accounts. Once these criteria are met, agencies move up in their tier level dependant on a combination of metrics:
- Acquired monthly recurring revenue (MRR): the amount of revenue an agency brings in from selling the tool.
- Managed MRR: the amount of HubSpot accounts an agency manages.
- Retention of account: an agency's ability to retain happy clients.
- Software engagement: an agency has to engage with the tool and members of the team must be using it regularly.
- Actual inbound marketing success: the ability to maintain inbound campaigns that yield results.
Ultimately, this tier structure is designed to ensure that agency partners are skilled and capable of delivering real results, which ensures the sustainability of the entire ecosystem.
How to choose the right tier for you
Now you're asking yourself - "which level should I go for?"
Well, of course you'd go for an Elite partner, that's the highest level... right? Not necessarily. Agencies aren't one size fits all and a untiered Gold or Diamond partner might actually be the right fit for your company's unique needs.
Much like any decision you make for your business, you need to pick the one that fits your company's purpose the best. With each tier you're getting an agency that has more experience across more clients, but in order to get to Elite status, an agency probably puts all its focus on the very big brands and a smaller company might end up with their C Team, never actually interacting with the person who pitched to them and paying premium prices.
"You should look for an inbound agency that will treat you like their best client but isn't reliant on you for survival." - Darren Leishman 
We recommend validating any agency before you start working with them. Look at the size of the companies they already work with and how many clients they already have. Make sure the person who is working on your account is someone who has the requisite certifications to deliver the best results you want and request to meet your Inbound Marketing Strategist beforehand. Here are some questions we recommend asking:
- How long has your agency been using HubSpot?
- When did you become a HubSpot agency?
- What is your partner tier status?
- How long have you been at your current HubSpot tier level?
- Are you a member of the HubSpot User Group (HUG) community?
- Which team members have which certifications?
While Diamond partners are often seen as the pinnacle, Elite partners go even further, showing proven scalability, retention, and long-term growth. If your business is looking for a partner that combines deep expertise with a personalised approach, an Elite-tier agency like Spitfire Inbound might just be the right fit.
What Does an Elite HubSpot Partner Look Like?
When evaluating agencies, it helps to understand what the top-tier partners bring to the table.
Spitfire Inbound is proud to be a HubSpot Elite Solutions Partner, a distinction held by less than 1% of HubSpot partners globally. That means that we've demonstrated not just leading-edge technical proficiency and strategy mastery but also long-term customer retention, revenue growth acceleration, as well as repeatable campaign success.
Elite for clients is a sign that your agency partner is:
- Demonstrated inbound marketing success for industries and companies of all sizes
- Deep knowledge of how to scale the HubSpot ecosystem
- Access to premium HubSpot resources and support
- Demonstrated track record of delivering on client objectives and making tangible differences
Whether you’re a growing business or an established brand, working with an Elite Hubspot partner gives you confidence that your inbound strategy is backed by experience and results.
Ready to start working with a HubSpot Tiered Partner? Contact us and we'll answer any questions you have about building the best inbound marketing strategy for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is a HubSpot Partner?
A HubSpot Partner is an agency certified by HubSpot that specializes in implementing and managing inbound marketing strategies using the HubSpot platform. They have proven expertise in both the tool and delivering successful marketing results.
Q. What are the different HubSpot Partner tier levels?
The tiers, from lowest to highest, are: Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Elite.
Q. Why should I care about an agency's HubSpot tier level?
The tier level is a strong indicator of an agency's experience, proven results, and stability. It ensures they don't just know how to use the tool, but are also skilled at executing successful inbound marketing campaigns that retain happy clients.
Q. How does an agency achieve a higher HubSpot tier?
Tiers are determined by a combination of performance metrics, including: Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR), the number of managed HubSpot accounts, client retention rates, software engagement, and a proven track record of actual inbound marketing success.
Q. Should I always choose the highest-tier (Elite) agency?
Not necessarily. While Elite partners are the top performers, they often focus on larger brands. A Gold or Diamond partner might be a better fit for a smaller business, offering more personalised attention and potentially better value.
Q. How do I choose the right HubSpot partner tier for my business?
The best partner aligns with your business size and goals, not just its tier. Consider the agency's current client roster, the size of companies they typically work with, and ensure you will have access to a certified strategist.
Q. What questions should I ask a potential HubSpot partner agency?
How long has your agency been using HubSpot?
What is your current HubSpot partner tier status?
How long have you been at that tier level?
Which team members have HubSpot certifications, and which ones?
Can I meet the Inbound Marketing Strategist who will handle my account?
Q. About Elite Tier Partners
What are the benefits of working with an Elite HubSpot Partner?
Elite partners, like Spitfire Inbound, offer demonstrated success across various industries, deep knowledge for scaling HubSpot, access to premium HubSpot resources, and a proven track record of delivering on client objectives.
Q. How many agencies achieve Elite partner status?
Elite status is held by less than 1% of HubSpot partners globally, making it a significant mark of distinction.
