Microsoft Scales AI Transformation Across Sectors and Startups in Singapore
Microsoft scales AI transformation across industries and startups in Singapore, unveiling sector-specific AI solutions and a startup accelerator with NUS Enterprise.
More than 600 decision-makers from leading organizations in Singapore gathered at Microsoft’s AI Tour today to learn about the latest advancements in AI. The exclusive event is part of a global series showcasing Microsoft’s commitments to empower every sector and business from enterprises to startups with the cloud, data and device solutions they need to succeed in the era of AI.
As part of the event, Microsoft Singapore shared how it is transforming critical industries through its AI Pinnacle Program, including scaling the adoption of Copilot, introducing agentic AI and co-innovating to create tailored AI solutions. For entrepreneurs, NUS Enterprise – the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS) – and Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create a platform to accelerate startup growth.
Keynote speaker Microsoft ASEAN President, Andrea Della Mattea, said: “Businesses across Singapore are seeing the benefits of generative AI for their bottom-line, and today we shared how AI agents are here to streamline their operations and give them an even more competitive edge. From large multinationals to local industry-leaders and homegrown startups, Microsoft is committed to delivering the cloud and AI technology that Singapore needs to drive innovation and value creation.”
As part of the MOU signed with Microsoft Singapore, NUS Enterprise will run a 2025 ‘Generative AI Accelerate Programme’ delivered through its BLOCK71 incubator to fast-track the growth of pre-Series A startups innovating in generative AI. This initiative will support up to 20 startups through a 10-week intensive programme, providing tailored technical and commercial guidance, mentorship from industry experts, direct access to industry leaders, and incubation at BLOCK71 offices in Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia, which are part of BLOCK71’s extensive global network and a collaborative ecosystem to help startups thrive. In addition to supporting local startups, NUS Enterprise will collaborate with Microsoft to explore AI applications across different fields ranging from autonomous vehicle services to philanthropic initiatives focused on upskilling, accessibility, and sustainability.
Microsoft Asia General Manager, Digital Natives & Startups, Andrew Boyd, said: “By bringing together academia, entrepreneurs and technology expertise we can further Asia’s lead in AI. With a thriving innovation and investment ecosystem, Singapore is becoming the hub for AI startups, and we’re excited to be working with NUS Enterprise to help AI entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality and empower their success.”
NUS Enterprise Vice President Ecosystem Building, Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, commented: “The NUS-Microsoft Generative AI Accelerate Programme is key to cultivating a thriving AI-native startup ecosystem. Building on NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71 Global platform, this collaboration with Microsoft will leverage our combined strengths to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in Singapore and across Asia. Ultimately, our vision is to apply AI to power discoveries across research fields and deliver real-world impact.”
Through the AI Pinnacle Program Microsoft Singapore is working closely with industry-leading organisations to create sector-specific AI solutions, designed to scale and revolutionise the way these industries operate. The program will continue to expand, with promising progress already made to transform industries with AI across healthcare, maritime, emergency services, the legal sector and more, spanning large to small enterprises, including empowering thousands of SMEs with AI.
Microsoft Singapore Managing Director, Lee Hui Li, said: “Cementing our nation’s reputation as a hub for AI innovation is a shared focus for Microsoft and the Singapore Government. To realise the potential of AI, we’re committed to co-innovating with industry-leading customers and the public sector through our AI Pinnacle Program and creating sectoral AI solutions that will keep Singapore ahead of the curve.”
To support widespread AI innovation among businesses in Singapore, Microsoft has made its Azure OpenAI Service available locally. With the launch of Azure OpenAI GPT-4o PTU models and data residency, businesses can accelerate their AI journey with Microsoft. Customers can now choose from over 1,800 models in the Azure AI Foundry ecosystem, offering unparalleled flexibility and possibilities.
Devices with the speed and intelligence to match local AI ambitions are also launching in Singapore from 4 March 2025 with the new AI-powered Copilot+ PC for Business. Commercial customers can choose between Intel and Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs including Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, starting from $2,139SGD, and experience the most advanced, intelligent and secure PCs available across both platforms.
The Microsoft AI Tour in Singapore was a unique opportunity for attendees to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in today’s competitive market. Through keynotes and sessions with customers and partners, the event showcased how AI can solve challenges, drive transformation, and unlock new opportunities across industries, while highlighting Microsoft’s commitment to supporting local innovation and growth.
