Microsoft and DISG launch AI agent accelerator for Singapore businesses

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 MyResponder app for the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), using AI to coordinate community first responders during emergencies.

Conclusion

The programme underscores Singapore’s commitment to becoming a global AI hub, fostering innovation while addressing ethical considerations. With strong government and private sector collaboration, the initiative aims to turbocharge business capabilities and set a benchmark for AI adoption worldwide.

For more details, visit ComputerWeekly.