Hal, once again your crusty-ness shows. You know full well what it takes to be a business partner.
To be a business partner, at a minimum, you need 2 people certified in APSS which is for sales. You can sell the system, but, since not certified for installation, you would not be able to open tickets for support.
If you want to install, you need 1 ACIS. That test is online for around $100. You could take the boot camp class, and probably be able to pass, or if you have a few installs under your belt, should be able to as well.
If you want to further your knowledge as well as sell co-delivery maintenance, you would need an ACIS certification. That test is $125 at a Pearson Vuelta testing center. Someone working on, iPO for 2 ish years should be able to pass...
NONE of the classes are mandatory and can be taken at any time.
