Singapore – Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore, and NUS Enterprise have announced a new collaboration aimed at strengthening Singapore’s position as a hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. The partnership will provide up to 150 qualified AI startups with streamlined access to funding through the Startup SG Tech grant over the next three years.
The initiative was launched by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong at the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) conference. It seeks to drive technological development and business growth within the local AI ecosystem.
Building on the existing AI Accelerate programme—jointly run by NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71 and Microsoft—the collaboration enhances support for startups beyond product development. The original programme, which includes a 10-week incubator, offers startups access to Microsoft Azure, expert guidance, and networking with investors and AI industry players. The 2025 cohort comprised 26 startups across various sectors.
Under the new partnership, the programme will introduce a Go-To-Market (GTM) component to help startups achieve product-market fit and expand regionally and globally. Microsoft experts will provide mentorship and commercialisation guidance, while Enterprise Singapore’s Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) office will work with Microsoft to fast-track access to the Startup SG Tech grant.
Grant funding will be jointly evaluated by Microsoft, industry, and venture capital experts, and may support activities such as intellectual property filing, cloud and AI development, and talent acquisition.
Mayank Wadhwa, Microsoft ASEAN President, said, “This collaboration will make a real difference to startups, actively shaping the future of AI and innovation in Asia. With support from NUS Enterprise and Enterprise Singapore, combined with Microsoft’s platforms, expertise, and unmatched sales and distribution ecosystem, entrepreneurs will have the tools and resources they need to build their ideas, reach customers, and scale beyond borders.”
Meanwhile, Cindy Khoo, managing director of Enterprise Singapore, commented, “There’s no question that AI is a game-changer for industries and businesses. But we need to be proactive to unlock its transformative potential, and establish the right platforms and partnerships to drive AI innovation. We are excited to be working with Microsoft and NUS Enterprise to accelerate funding and commercialisation opportunities for cutting-edge AI startups, and grow not just the next generation of companies but also deepen Singapore’s AI ecosystem.”
Lastly, Dr Tan Sian Wee, NUS Senior Vice President (Innovation and Enterprise), stated, “At NUS Enterprise, our mission goes beyond nurturing startups. We are shaping ventures that can create lasting impact and drive meaningful change. This collaboration strengthens that ambition by giving AI startups access to world-class technology, networks, and expertise, helping them grow from strong ideas into globally competitive companies. Together with Microsoft and Enterprise Singapore, we aim to connect research, talent, and industry in new ways that will accelerate innovation and position Singapore as a leader in the AI economy.”
Applications for the upcoming AI Accelerate 2026 programme are now open, with the deadline extended to 14 November 2025. Eligible startups must be Singapore-based, post-minimum viable product (MVP), and demonstrate user traction or revenue. They must operate in B2B or scalable B2C markets, have AI at the core of their offerings, and hold global ambitions. The 10-week programme will begin in January 2026 and conclude with an Investor Day in May, where participants will pitch to venture capitalists and corporate partners.
