Singapore– February 2025
Microsoft Scales AI Transformation Across Sectors and Startups in Singapore. Over 600 decision-makers from leading organizations across Singapore convened at Microsoft’s AI Tour to explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The event, part of a global series, underscored Microsoft’s commitment to empowering businesses—from enterprises to startups—with cutting-edge cloud, data, and device solutions to thrive in the AI-driven era.
The event highlighted Microsoft Singapore’s transformative AI Pinnacle Program, which focuses on scaling the adoption of Copilot, introducing agentic AI, and co-innovating to develop tailored AI solutions. In a significant move for the startup ecosystem, Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS), to create a platform aimed at accelerating startup growth.
Empowering Businesses with Generative AI
Andrea Della Mattea, President of Microsoft ASEAN, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the transformative potential of AI. “Businesses across Singapore are already reaping the benefits of generative AI for their bottom line. Today, we showcased how AI agents can streamline operations and provide a competitive edge. From multinational corporations to local industry leaders and homegrown startups, Microsoft is dedicated to delivering the cloud and AI technologies that drive innovation and value creation in Singapore,” she said.
NUS-Microsoft Collaboration to Accelerate AI Startups
As part of the MOU, NUS Enterprise will launch the 2025 ‘Generative AI Accelerate Programme’ through its BLOCK71 incubator. This initiative aims to fast-track the growth of pre-Series A startups innovating in generative AI. The 10-week intensive program will support up to 20 startups with tailored technical and commercial guidance, mentorship from industry experts, and access to BLOCK71’s global network of offices in Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
Andrew Boyd, Microsoft Asia General Manager for Digital Natives & Startups, remarked, “By uniting academia, entrepreneurs, and technology expertise, we can further solidify Asia’s leadership in AI. Singapore’s thriving innovation ecosystem positions it as a hub for AI startups, and we’re thrilled to collaborate with NUS Enterprise to help AI entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality.”
Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President of Ecosystem Building at NUS Enterprise, added, “The NUS-Microsoft Generative AI Accelerate Programme is pivotal in cultivating a thriving AI-native startup ecosystem. Leveraging BLOCK71’s global platform and Microsoft’s expertise, this collaboration will drive innovation and entrepreneurship across Singapore and Asia, applying AI to power discoveries and deliver real-world impact.”
Transforming Industries with AI
Microsoft’s AI Pinnacle Program is already making strides in revolutionizing industries such as healthcare, maritime, emergency services, and the legal sector. The program is designed to scale AI solutions across large enterprises and SMEs, empowering thousands of businesses with AI-driven tools.
Lee Hui Li, Managing Director of Microsoft Singapore, stated, “Cementing Singapore’s reputation as a hub for AI innovation is a shared goal for Microsoft and the Singapore Government. Through the AI Pinnacle Program, we’re co-innovating with industry leaders and the public sector to create sector-specific AI solutions that keep Singapore ahead of the curve.”
Local AI Innovation with Azure OpenAI Service
To support widespread AI adoption, 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. The Azure AI Foundry ecosystem now offers over 1,800 models, providing unparalleled flexibility for businesses to innovate.
AI-Powered Devices for Businesses
Starting 4 March 2025, Singapore will see the launch of the new AI-powered Copilot+ PC for Business. Commercial customers can choose from Intel and Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered devices, including the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, starting at $2,139 SGD. These devices promise to deliver the most advanced, intelligent, and secure PCs available.
A Hub for AI Innovation
The Microsoft AI Tour in Singapore provided attendees with valuable insights into how AI can solve challenges, drive transformation, and unlock new opportunities across industries. The event highlighted Microsoft’s unwavering commitment to supporting local innovation and growth, reinforcing Singapore’s position as a global leader in AI.
