Despite being in the middle of a takeover by Sun Microsystems, MySQL has unveiled a channel program aimed at giving the firm a leg up into the software-as-a-service market.

The Authorized Hosting Partner Program will help MySQL capture more Web-based applications developers, according to Bertrand Matthelie, senior director of EMEA Marketing. “The world is moving online, it is an unstoppable shift. Users want applications delivered anywhere through their browser and SAAS is becoming a major trend,” he said. 

Matthelie said it was the demand by end users that has driven MySQL to launch the program. “We want to give customers a choice of how to get our products,” he said. 

The program is designed to give hosting providers the tools to host the applications and give the application providers the knowledge of which hosting firms have MySQL expertise. Hosting providers that join the program get access to the MySQL Enterprise offering: MySQL Enterprise Server, MySQL Enterprise Monitor and MySQL Premium Tech support 24/7.  

“The hosting provider can then provide the MySQL platform for ISVs who can then develop applications and deliver it as a SAAS option for customers,” Matthelie said. He said the company is aiming to recruit hosting providers across the globe who serve any size of customer.

However, MySQL is currently in takeover talks, as Sun made a $1 billion offer for the company last month. Matthelie said the buyout was positive news for potential MySQL hosting providers. “It means there will be increased support on whatever platform.” Matthelie said it would not mean the providers would have to change to Solaris. “We will absolutely continue to support other platforms such as Windows and Linux,” he said.

It seems the takeover has not affected response to the hosting partner program; MySQL already has a number hosting providers onboard, including Logicworks and iEurop.

"We have been longstanding proponents of MySQL, and we are proud to be the first Authorized MySQL Platinum Hosting Partner in the U.S.," said Carter Burden, CEO of Logicworks, in a statement. "The certified MySQL Enterprise software and support will help us ensure that our clients can further benefit from our Managed Database Services and database availability guarantees for even the most complex, business-critical customer applications."