SMEs

SINGAPORE BUDGET 2026

Budget 2026: AI boost a shot in the arm, but funding alone won’t drive transformation, says industry

Expanded support lowers barriers to adoption, but scaling will depend on guidance and workforce readiness

The new set of national AI missions will be focused across advanced manufacturing, finance, healthcare and connectivity sectors.
SINGAPORE BUDGET 2026

Budget 2026: Quick takes on Singapore’s new National AI council, AI missions

The missions will focus on four sectors – advanced manufacturing, finance, healthcare and connectivity

DBS says its survey findings point to a strategic shift among businesses towards diversifying revenue streams and markets.

8 in 10 SMEs plan overseas expansion in 2026 despite market volatility: DBS survey

Reaching new customers and building a stronger presence abroad are the primary drivers

Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling (in orange suit) and director of Kwong Cheong Thye Alvin Choo (in pink suit) observing an autonomous guided vehicle in operation at Kwong Cheong Thye’s new factory.

Refreshed Food Manufacturing Industry Digital Plan to simplify digital adoption, support scaling efforts

The second iteration plan allows companies to adopt the right solutions to enhance their operations and thrive in a competitive market

Rachel Bondi, corporate vice-president for SMEs and channel at Microsoft Asia (left) and Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo launching the AI QuickStart programme on Feb 6.

SMEs get fast track to enterprise-ready AI under new Microsoft-led programme

Backed by IMDA and UOB, the scheme supports digitally mature firms in rolling out artificial intelligence solutions

Moh Yan Ting, managing director of Freshening Industries, says: "We are working while we sleep, letting the machines run overnight... This results in greater supply and efficiency."

Freshening Industries, maker of Zappy wet wipes, boosts productivity with round-the-clock automation

Its new Loyang facility is 3.5 times bigger than the previous plant and features a smart shuttle storage hub that lifts output by over 50%

The five Economic Strategy Review committees have set out seven recommendations in a midterm update.

Singapore’s private-sector leaders back ESR strategy, highlighting global expansion and AI

Industry participants say the review clarifies the Republic’s growth direction

Go-Genie’s founder and CEO Ang Ming Cong says the partnership offers “plug-and-play access to international markets, without the need for heavy capital investment or complex overseas set-ups”.

Go-Genie partners South Korea’s LX Pantos to help SMEs scale logistics globally

This provides firms access to 380 networks across more than 36 countries and 300 offices

Business owners need to face the reality that succession may not be a smooth family affair, says the writer.

The US$5.8 trillion question: Who will inherit Asia’s family businesses?

With a great wealth transfer under way, succession planning can no longer be left unresolved

Chew and Ting's global mindset for their business has propelled it into the region.
NEW BEGINNINGS

Daniel Chew and Rebecca Ting: Going beyond the vines

Instead of diplomas or degrees, the power couple’s pursuit of affordable, good design has taken them further than they’d imagined – with a dream project still in their sights