Microsoft scales AI transformation across sectors and startups in Singapore

More than 600 decision-makers from leading organisations in Singapore gathered at Microsoft’s AI Tour last week 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.

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.”