As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries rapidly, the demand for professionals who can design, implement, and manage autonomous AI systems that deliver real business value is skyrocketing. In response to this evolving landscape, Microsoft has introduced a groundbreaking new certification: Microsoft Certified: Agentic AI Business Solutions Architect (AB-100).

This certification validates the skills and knowledge required by architects and technical specialists to design responsible, scalable, and innovative AI solutions. It emphasizes the practical application of agentic AI — AI systems capable of autonomous decision-making — to drive measurable business impact.

What is the AB-100 Certification?

The AB-100 certification focuses on professionals architecting AI solutions that incorporate agentic capabilities. Agentic AI refers to intelligent systems capable of making decisions and executing actions independently, often with minimal human oversight. Unlike traditional AI, which typically reacts to inputs, agentic AI can proactively learn, adapt, and optimize outcomes in dynamic environments.

The certification ensures that professionals can design solutions that are not only advanced but also trustworthy, ethical, and aligned with organizational objectives. By fostering the creation of responsible autonomous systems, AB-100 underscores Microsoft’s commitment to ensuring AI-driven automation benefits businesses and society.

As part of Microsoft’s broader initiative to empower professionals in the era of autonomous AI, this certification highlights the increasing relevance of agentic systems in sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, supply chain management, and customer service, areas where autonomy and adaptability can dramatically improve efficiency and innovation.

Is This the Right Certification for You?

This certification is designed for experienced solutions architects who focus on creating and implementing AI-driven business solutions that can transform organizations and encourage innovation. Candidates should have a strong background in developing agentic-first and multi-agent orchestrated solutions, particularly using generative AI alongside Microsoft services, including Dynamics 365, Microsoft Power Platform, Microsoft Copilot Studio, Azure AI services, and Azure OpenAI.

Essential skills for this certification include proficiency in working with agents, prompts, and various language models. Additionally, candidates should be adept at adopting architectural frameworks that yield measurable outcomes aligned with enterprise success metrics. It is also essential to be familiar with open standards to ensure interoperability and extensibility, enabling the development of flexible, future-proof solutions that integrate seamlessly into complex enterprise environments.

To qualify for this certification, candidates must hold at least one active Associate-level Certification from a specified list of 11 AI business solutions Certifications and must pass Exam AB-100: Agentic AI Business Solutions Architect, which is currently in beta.