Singapore’s ambitions to strengthen its position as a global AI hub have received a boost through a new collaboration between Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore, and NUS Enterprise. The partnership aims to accelerate the growth of up to 150 AI startups over the next three years, offering them improved access to funding through the Startup SG Tech grant. The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong at the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH) 2025 conference.
The initiative expands on the AI Accelerate programme, co-run by NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71 and Microsoft. The existing programme offers a 10-week incubator where startups can develop on Microsoft Azure, refine their products, and receive expert mentoring in business strategy and fundraising. It also connects participants to venture capital investors and AI ecosystem partners. The 2025 edition featured 26 startups across multiple industries, showcasing the growing demand for AI-focused innovation.
Introducing a new go-to-market programme
The enhanced AI Accelerate programme will now extend beyond product refinement to help startups launch and scale effectively. A new Go-To-Market (GTM) track will be introduced, where Microsoft experts will provide practical guidance on achieving product-market fit, commercialisation, and regional expansion. This addition aims to bridge the gap between innovation and market success, ensuring that startups are equipped to compete both locally and globally.
Enterprise Singapore, through the Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) office, will collaborate with Microsoft to streamline access to Startup SG Tech grants. A joint expert panel comprising representatives from Microsoft, industry leaders, and venture capital firms will identify high-potential startups eligible for funding. The grants will support key business needs such as intellectual property filings, AI and cloud product development, and talent acquisition.
Strengthening Singapore’s innovation network
Participating startup Addlly AI, which develops AI-driven marketing agents, described the programme as a vital platform for scaling its operations. “As a startup building enterprise-grade AI marketing agents, having access to resources that accelerate growth is invaluable,” said Co-founder and CEO Tina Chopra. “This programme connects us directly with BLOCK71’s incubation network, Microsoft’s technical expertise, and Enterprise Singapore’s funding support.”
Microsoft ASEAN President Mayank Wadhwa highlighted the collaboration’s broader impact, saying, “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.”
Enterprise Singapore Managing Director Cindy Khoo added that partnerships like this are crucial to sustaining innovation. “AI is a game-changer for industries and businesses, but we need to be proactive to unlock its transformative potential,” she said. “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.”
NUS Senior Vice President (Innovation and Enterprise) Dr Tan Sian Wee echoed this sentiment, emphasising the long-term vision behind the initiative. “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.”
Applications open for AI Accelerate 2026
Applications for the next AI Accelerate cohort are now open, with the deadline extended to 14 November 2025 due to strong interest. Eligible startups must be Singapore-based and post-MVP, demonstrating user traction, pilots, or revenue. They should operate in scalable B2B or B2C markets, have AI as a core component of their product, and be privately held with global aspirations. The 10-week programme begins in January 2026 and concludes with an Investor Day in May 2026, where startups will pitch to venture capitalists and corporate partners.
