30/04/2026
As AI moves from experimentation to real-world deployment, the real challenge for many SMEs is knowing where to begin. Yesterday, we marked the launch of AI.dea, a business transformation programme by Singtel in partnership with SIM Academy, designed to help SMEs translate AI ambition into practical, scalable outcomes.
The launch was attended by Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information & Ministry of Education, Ms Jasmin Lau, alongside Mr Seong Kim Ho, CEO of SIM Academy, Mr Tian Chong Ng, CEO of Singtel, and industry leaders across the ecosystem.
This was followed by a fireside chat, where leaders discussed what it takes for SMEs to move from AI experimentation to real business impact, highlighting the need to build internal capabilities, adopt AI responsibly, and translate use cases into day-to-day operations.
At its core, the programme focuses on building real, in-house AI capabilities for SMEs. “As Singapore advances its National AI Strategy, SMEs must be equipped to participate meaningfully in this transformation… helping leaders build in-house capabilities and implement AI with confidence to drive tangible outcomes,” said Ho Seong Kim, CEO of SIM Academy.
Ng Tian Chong, CEO of Singtel, added that success with AI requires more than technology; it also requires the right capabilities, governance and mindset.
Drawing on SIM Academy’s applied, outcome-driven learning approach and supported by SkillsFuture Singapore, AI.dea enables SMEs to design, build, and validate real-world use cases, moving from experimentation to meaningful impact.
As AI becomes a core driver of business performance, the ability to translate intent into ex*****on will increasingly define which organisations move ahead and which fall behind. To learn more about the AI.dea programme, visit https://ow.ly/OX6950YVnMa.