Cognizant acquires 3Cloud to build a global powerhouse in Azure and enterprise AI

Cognizant has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 3Cloud, a fast-growing Microsoft Azure services provider known for its work in data, AI, app modernization, and cloud engineering. Announced jointly in Teaneck and Bengaluru, the deal is set to significantly scale Cognizant’s Azure and enterprise AI capabilities, while expanding its footprint among global clients.

With this acquisition, Cognizant aims to advance its AI builder strategy, helping enterprises build, deploy, and scale AI applications on cloud-first infrastructure. The combined strengths of both companies will create one of the largest global Microsoft partners, backed by more than 21,000 Azure-certified specialists and an extensive collection of Microsoft awards.

Strengthening enterprise-first Azure capabilities

3Cloud brings a strong enterprise portfolio across financial services, healthcare, technology, and consumer sectors. The firm has maintained 20% organic compound annual growth since 2020 and expects similar momentum through 2025. That growth aligns with rising momentum for Microsoft Azure, which Microsoft reported was up 40% year-on-year in Q3 2025.

“This acquisition marks a pivotal step in Cognizant’s strategy to empower our clients for the future of enterprise AI,” said Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant. He added that 3Cloud’s Azure depth and industry alignment complement Cognizant’s technology frameworks and global scale.

Upon closing, 3Cloud will contribute 1,000+ Azure experts and 1,500+ Microsoft certifications, joining Cognizant’s nearly 20,000 Azure-certified associates worldwide.

A stronger Microsoft ecosystem partnership

Founded by former Microsoft executives, 3Cloud has earned a reputation for technical excellence. Its portfolio spans modern data platforms, cloud-native AI app development, analytics, and managed services. The company is also an Elite Databricks partner, known for delivering advanced data and AI programs that support enterprise transformation.

3Cloud has repeatedly been recognized with top Microsoft awards, including the 2025 U.S. Channel Partner of the Year and the 2024 Americas Partner of the Year for Data and AI. Cognizant itself holds several accolades, such as the 2025 Intelligent Automation Partner of the Year and GitHub AI Services Partner of the Year.

Judson Althoff, CEO of Microsoft’s Commercial Business, said, “Cognizant’s acquisition of 3Cloud will create one of the most capable and credentialed partners in the Azure ecosystem. We are excited by the potential this brings to our mutual customers.”

Integrating expertise to fuel AI-led transformation

Cognizant’s vision is to offer clients an end-to-end environment for cloud modernization, AI development, and enterprise-grade engineering. The addition of 3Cloud accelerates this plan by bringing engineering-heavy capabilities and cloud-native development tools that speed up enterprise AI adoption.

Mike Rocco, CEO of 3Cloud, said, “Being part of Cognizant unlocks new opportunities for our clients and employees. Our shared vision for enterprise AI readiness will help clients realize the full potential of Azure, now at a global scale.”

Looking ahead

Once completed, the acquisition will position Cognizant as one of Microsoft’s largest global partners, especially in terms of Azure Consumption Revenue. It will also strengthen Cognizant’s role as a strategic partner for enterprise AI, cloud transformation, and next-generation digital engineering.

The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.