What Is Pre-approval for MDF?
Pre-approval is the vendor's sign-off on a partner's proposed marketing activity before any money is spent. The partner submits an activity plan - what they'll run, when, and the expected cost - and the vendor approves it against available funds. Spending before approval almost always voids the claim.
Why it matters to IT channel partners. Pre-approval is the step partners most often skip or rush, especially with MDF. Run the campaign first and the spend is usually ineligible, no matter how well it performed. Each vendor has its own approval lead time, so a missed window can mean funds expire before they can be used at all.
Related terms
FAQ
Often yes. Even though co-op is earned, many programs require an approved activity plan before the spend qualifies for reimbursement.
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