- Programme supports Singapore’s Digital Enterprise Blueprint
- Aims to enable enterprises to harness tech to innovate, remain competitive
Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the digital transformation of up to 3,000 local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and digital solutions providers through the adoption of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).
In a joint statement, both parties noted that the programme supports Singapore’s Digital Enterprise Blueprint, which aims to enable enterprises to harness emerging technologies such as cloud and AI to innovate, grow, and remain competitive in the digital economy.
SMEs represent 99% of Singapore’s enterprises and employ seven in ten local workers, highlighting their critical role in the national economy. The programme seeks to unlock their potential by offering tailored cloud and AI resources, technical training, and marketing support to help them innovate, scale, and create new business opportunities.
Up to 3,000 SMEs and digital solutions providers will benefit from a comprehensive package of resources and expertise designed to accelerate cloud and AI adoption, including:
Cloud credits: Eligible participants will receive cloud credits worth US$1,000 (RM4,200) to reduce upfront costs and encourage adoption across Alibaba Cloud services.
AI and technical training: Participants will gain access to six hands-on AI workshops annually, including training on Alibaba Cloud’s proprietary Qwen large language model and its generative AI platform, Model Studio. They will also receive quarterly consultations and ongoing technical support to optimise implementation.
Outreach and engagement: Alibaba Cloud will host events to raise awareness and promote adoption, sharing success stories and offering exclusive participation opportunities at Alibaba Cloud’s flagship events.
Selina Yuan, President of International Business at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, said: “As a global leader in cloud computing and AI innovation, Alibaba Cloud brings world-class technology and deep industry expertise to empower Singapore’s SMEs on their digital journey. We are honoured to collaborate with IMDA in supporting the government’s vision of a vibrant digital economy.
“We are not only enabling businesses to adopt advanced cloud and AI tools, but also fostering an ecosystem of continuous learning and digital resilience to position Singapore as a leading smart nation in the years ahead.”
Johnson Poh, Assistant Chief Executive, Sectoral Transformation Group, IMDA, said: “As technologies like cloud computing and AI continue to reshape the global economy, it is critical for our SMEs to build the digital capabilities needed to compete and thrive. This collaboration with Alibaba Cloud combines deep technological expertise with global best practices to support our digital solutions providers and SMEs in adopting advanced tools such as generative AI and scalable cloud infrastructure.
“By equipping businesses with the right tools and knowledge, we are strengthening the foundation of enterprises to be future-ready for Singapore’s digital economy.”
The launch of the Alibaba Cloud Digital Accelerator Programme coincides with Alibaba Cloud’s tenth anniversary in Singapore — a milestone that underscores its long-standing commitment to the nation’s digital ambitions. Over the past decade, Alibaba Cloud has partnered with government agencies, enterprises, and innovators to develop digital infrastructure, enhance capabilities, and nurture local talent.
This new collaboration with IMDA marks the next chapter in positioning Singapore as a global hub for AI and digital innovation.
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