Singapore is intensifying its initiatives to facilitate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), unveiling new collaborations, training programs, and cybersecurity measures. These efforts were highlighted at Asia Tech x Singapore, where Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, Tan Kiat How, emphasized the importance of practical AI application over simply following industry trends.
The government has broadened its Digital Enterprise Blueprint (DEB) to further assist SMEs in digital transformation and AI integration. Since the DEB’s inception, over 26,000 SMEs have reaped benefits from this strategic programme. AI adoption among these enterprises has experienced a significant rise, jumping from 4.3 percent in 2023 to an anticipated 53.5 percent in 2025.
New strategic alliances with companies like Grab and RSM Stone Forest IT are set to bolster these efforts by offering SMEs AI training, technical assistance, and cybersecurity resources. Grab has introduced an AI initiative targeting 10,000 SMEs within the food, retail, and e-commerce sectors. This program provides free online training, webinars, and AI courses, developed in collaboration with the Singapore University of Technology and Design.
RSM Stone Forest IT is launching a cybersecurity program designed to enhance the cyber resilience of 2,000 SMEs. This includes phishing simulation exercises to help businesses identify and address potential security vulnerabilities. Additionally, the government unveiled the “AI for Enterprise Impact Playbook,” a guide created by the Infocomm Media Development Authority, SkillsFuture Singapore, and Workforce Singapore, to assist businesses in selecting appropriate AI solutions and identifying relevant workforce training opportunities.
In a move to celebrate and encourage AI innovation, Singapore announced the launch of the inaugural SME AI Impact Awards in 2026. These awards will honor Singapore-registered SMEs that have effectively implemented AI solutions for a minimum of six months and have achieved tangible improvements in operations or workforce efficiency. This recognition aims to spotlight successful AI integration and inspire further advancements in the sector.