OpenAI’s first Applied AI Lab outside the US gives Singapore a deployment focus

The harder phase of AI adoption is moving frontier models into public services, enterprise workflows and skills pipelines. Singapore’s first Memorandum of Understanding with OpenAI is structured around that execution challenge, with a new applied AI lab, talent programmes and wider access initiatives forming the centre of the agreement.

The Ministry of Digital Development and Information and OpenAI have signed the MOU to collaborate on OpenAI for Singapore, a joint initiative covering applied AI innovation, AI talent, and access for citizens, enterprises and the public sector. OpenAI is committing more than S$300 million to strengthen Singapore’s AI ecosystem.

The lab anchors the agreement

The agreement is anchored by the OpenAI Singapore Applied AI Lab, OpenAI’s first such lab outside the United States. The lab will expand a dedicated team of Forward-Deployed Engineers and technical specialists to more than 200 roles over the next few years.

The team will work with Singaporean partners to turn frontier AI into everyday economic capability. Its work will align with Singapore’s AI Missions and national priorities, with public services, finance, healthcare and digital infrastructure named as focus areas.

That gives the MOU an operational layer beyond access to AI tools. These sectors typically require deployment expertise, systems integration and domain-specific implementation before AI can be used at scale.

OpenAI will also launch a Forward-Deployed Engineering programme in Singapore to train mid-career software engineers in building real-world AI systems. The programme is intended to help develop a pipeline of specialised AI deployment talent.

Talent programmes reach schools and the technology workforce

The MOU also includes capability-building programmes and research partnerships with Singapore’s education sector. OpenAI will support hands-on workshops under a Singapore chapter of the OpenAI Academy, its online training platform.

The agreement also includes Codex for Teachers hackathons, which are aimed at helping AI development in education remain teacher-led, responsible and equitable.

OpenAI will continue working with IMDA and AI Singapore under the AIxTech programme to build AI fluency among technology professionals. This includes access to OpenAI’s Codex for hands-on training with AI tools, optional modules for AIxTech online exercises, e-resources and expert-led sessions on OpenAI’s AI stack.

Mr Chng Kai Fong, Permanent Secretary (Digital Development and Information), said, “With AI reshaping economies, businesses and the workforce, Singapore’s response has been deliberate: growing new sectors, anchoring global frontier companies here, and equipping our people with the skills to thrive in this new environment. This partnership with OpenAI reflects the Government’s commitment to developing Singapore’s AI capabilities, strengthening enterprise adoption of AI, and securing good jobs for Singaporeans.”

Access programmes target public services, startups and SMEs

The AI for All component of the MOU is aimed at expanding access to AI tools and expertise for Singaporeans, businesses and startups.

Planned initiatives include citizen-centric AI applications to improve how citizens interact with public services. The partnership also covers AI Accelerator programmes offering technical consultancy and support for local and international startups.

For smaller businesses, the MOU includes workshops for micro-entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises. Localised content will also be developed for SkillsFuture programmes to support broad-based AI capability development across the population.

Ms Denise Dresser, Chief Revenue Officer at OpenAI, said, “We’re excited to partner with Singapore as it builds on its position as a global leader in AI. Singapore has strong technical talent, trusted institutions, and a clear ambition to use AI to drive long-term growth and improve people’s lives. Through OpenAI for Singapore, we want to help more organisations put frontier AI to work, develop local talent, and expand access to the benefits of AI.”

The MOU was jointly issued by MDDI and OpenAI.