It's nice to partner with one rich uncle. But two rich uncles? OnForce pulled off that rare feat this week, launching a new learning and certification initiative with Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard. The effort will initially focus on Windows Vista and small business solutions.

For those who haven't given it a test run, OnForce is an online marketplace that connects 10,000 IT service providers with customers seeking technology help.

Working with Microsoft and HP, OnForce is launching a "one-stop resource" for service providers to obtain training and validation on the latest Microsoft technologies. Here's what each company brings to the table: OnForce, naturally, has a large community of VARs interested in training; Microsoft chips in with content and certifications programs; and HP provides the online platform for learning.

The learning portal will initially focus on Microsoft Windows Vista and Small Business Specialist certifications. Here's a link to the learning portal.

What's The VAR Guy's take on the situation? Hmmm. The VAR Guy doesn't think there's much money in Vista-related upgrades–unless you're talking about complete network upgrades. But focusing on small business certification is a smart move. It could potentially help OnForce community members to differentiate themselves from commodity Geek Squad-types who focus on break-fix services.