Microsoft and DISG launch AI agent accelerator for Singapore businesses
Microsoft and Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) have launched an accelerator programme to help local businesses build and deploy autonomous AI agents, offering cloud credits, training, and tools to foster innovation.
Microsoft and Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) have launched the Agentic AI Accelerator programme, aimed at helping up to 300 Singapore-based businesses build and deploy autonomous AI systems. This initiative is part of the government’s Enterprise Compute Initiative (ECI) and aligns with Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0, which seeks to create a thriving AI ecosystem.
Key Highlights of the Programme
- Financial Support: Participating businesses will receive up to S$250,000 in Microsoft Azure cloud credits, AI training, and tools. Select firms with ambitious roadmaps may qualify for additional support of up to S$700,000.
- Government Backing: The programme complements existing government support of up to S$105,000 per enterprise for setting up AI centres of excellence.
- Agentic AI: These systems can reason, plan, and execute complex tasks autonomously, acting like digital team members. A Microsoft survey found that 82% of Singaporean business leaders plan to adopt such AI agents within 12–18 months.
Industry Perspectives
Cynthia Yeo, Acting Managing Director of Microsoft Singapore, emphasized that "frontier firms"—where humans and AI agents collaborate—are the future. She highlighted the programme’s potential to "drive innovation and position Singapore to lead with AI."
Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry, described agentic AI as the "next frontier" for businesses, aiding in assisting, augmenting, and automating tasks. She cited Patsnap, a local tech firm using AI to streamline patent research and analysis.
Case Studies
Rajah & Tann
- The law firm organized its data to build a legal precedent bank and developed AI bots for client queries.
- Transitioned from a $10,000 per-question fee to a $3,000–$4,000 subscription model, enhancing accessibility.
- Implemented responsible AI policies to address client data concerns.
NCS
- Built an in-house ChatGPT-like tool for its 14,000 employees to boost productivity.
- Developed the for the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), using AI to coordinate community first responders during emergencies.
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About the Author
David Chen
AI Startup Analyst
Senior analyst focusing on AI startup ecosystem with 11 years of venture capital and startup analysis experience. Former member of Sequoia Capital AI investment team, now independent analyst writing AI startup and investment analysis articles for Forbes, Harvard Business Review and other publications.