AI Centre of Excellence for SMEs Launched

The Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME) and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) have officially launched the AI Centre of Excellence, named SME@AiTE, designed to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore in adopting artificial intelligence tools and workflows.

Housed within ITE College Central, the centre will provide SMEs with complimentary workshops and downloadable resources, enabling them to explore AI technology in a risk-free environment. The initiative is part of the Singapore government’s efforts to bridge the gap between AI innovation and SME growth.

Singapore’s Senior Minister of State, Dr Janil Puthucheary, highlighted that SMEs are the backbone of the economy, employing about 70 percent of the workforce. He noted, ‘This [centre of excellence] will help SMEs move past conceptualisation into actual implementation – integrating AI technology into their business operations.’

Advisors will guide SMEs through government support programs, ensuring they maximize the advantages of AI solutions. Dr Janil emphasized the need for SMEs to prepare for a future where competition extends beyond price and location, requiring a deeper understanding of AI technology.

SME@AiTE will offer sector-specific workshops in various industries, including food and beverage, HR, accounting, retail, engineering, and logistics. Through hands-on experiences with Generative AI (GenAI) solutions and innovative applications, SMEs can better understand how to implement AI into their operations.

The initiative reflects ASME’s commitment to influencing AI policies and tangible change for SMEs, supporting their dynamism and resilience in the economy. ASME President, Ang Yuit, reiterated this by stating that embracing AI is crucial for staying competitive as AI technologies develop globally.

The centre will not only assist SMEs but also empower youth through internships and practical exposure to AI-driven business solutions, fostering collaboration between education and industry. With this initiative, Singapore aims to sustain its position as a leader in AI adoption across various sectors.

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