Thinking Machines Data Science has announced a regional collaboration with OpenAI to drive enterprise AI transformation across the Asia Pacific. The initiative will combine ChatGPT Enterprise enablement with customised Agentic AI app design, targeting executives and organisations seeking to embed artificial intelligence into their operations.
Strengthening enterprise AI in the region
Under the partnership, Thinking Machines becomes OpenAI’s first official Services Partner in Asia Pacific. The consultancy will deliver hands-on training programmes, implementation frameworks, and AI application development using OpenAI’s APIs. These services aim to address a gap many organisations face: while 61% of enterprises in Asia Pacific report using AI, according to an IBM CEO study, many still struggle to generate tangible business value due to limited executive capabilities and cultural barriers.
Stephanie Sy, Founder and CEO of Thinking Machines, said the collaboration is about more than introducing new technology. “Through our collaboration with OpenAI, we’re not just bringing in new technology but we’re helping organisations build the skills, strategies, and support systems they need to take advantage of AI. For us, it’s about reinventing the future of work through human-AI collaboration and making AI truly work for people across the Asia Pacific Region,” she said.
OpenAI’s growing presence in Asia Pacific
The announcement reflects OpenAI’s broader expansion in the region, following the establishment of its headquarters in Singapore in late 2024. Singapore currently records the highest per-capita ChatGPT usage globally, underscoring its readiness for enterprise-scale AI adoption. The initiative also complements Singapore’s National AI Strategy, which seeks to enhance innovation and the responsible use of AI for society at large.
Andy Brown, Head of Go-to-Market, Asia Pacific at OpenAI, highlighted the growing interest from business leaders in the region. “Across Asia Pacific, we are seeing business leaders eager to unlock new productivity gains and venture into innovative use cases with AI. This initiative with Thinking Machines will give leaders the know-how and hands-on support to embed our latest GPT-5 model into their daily operations, helping them move from experimentation to impact,” he said.
Enabling leadership and scaling adoption
Thinking Machines has already trained more than 10,000 professionals in AI across the region. Building on this foundation, the partnership will introduce executive programmes designed to help leaders create “AI second brains” to boost productivity. These programmes will provide senior managers and C-suite executives with the tools to apply AI strategically, establish governance frameworks, and lead adoption efforts.
Beyond training, the collaboration will expand enterprise transformation services, supporting organisations in adopting ChatGPT Enterprise. This includes designing tailored workflows, integrating AI into existing systems, and managing organisational change. In addition, Thinking Machines will develop Agentic AI applications that align with each client’s specific business needs, embedding their unique processes and culture to deliver strategic value.
Both companies will also invest in thought leadership and industry engagement through white papers, case studies, executive roundtables, and forums. These efforts aim to address the cultural, linguistic, and business diversity across Asia Pacific, ensuring AI adoption is both impactful and contextually relevant.
Regional rollout
The programme will first launch in Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand, through Thinking Machines’ offices in Singapore, Manila, and Bangkok. Expansion to other Asia Pacific markets will follow. The consultancy also plans to extend its services into industry-specific applications, particularly in financial services, retail, and manufacturing.
