Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore and NUS Enterprise – the entrepreneurial heart of the National University of Singapore (NUS), have teamed up to offer up to 150 qualified artificial intelligence (AI) startups with more streamlined access to funding through the Startup SG Tech grant over the next three years.
The trio said in a statement on Wednesday that they aim to catalyze tech development and business growth in the local AI ecosystem.
The new collaboration builds on the AI Accelerate program, jointly run by NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71, a global network of physical accelerators across 11 cities, and Microsoft.
The existing program features a 10-week incubator for startups, where they can build on Microsoft Azure, refine their AI products, and tap on expert guidance for business strategy and fundraising.
Participating startups can also access mentorship and networking opportunities with venture capital investors and AI ecosystem players.
The 2025 cohort saw a total of 26 startups across a wide range of sectors.
Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore and NUS Enterprise have now joined forces to expand the AI Accelerate program beyond helping founders refine their technology and prepare products for market, to now enabling them to launch effectively and grow commercially, both in Singapore and abroad.
Under the new tripartite collaboration, this enhanced edition introduces a Go-To-Market (GTM) program, with Microsoft experts providing startups with practical guidance for achieving product-market fit and commercialization, enabling them to scale more effectively in regional and global markets.
Enterprise Singapore, through the Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) joint office, will also work with Microsoft to fast-track access to the Startup SG Tech grant for qualified startups.
This leverages Microsoft’s expertise in AI to jointly select high-potential startups for grant funding as part of a panel comprising of experts representing industry and venture capital.
Grants can be used to support key activities that contribute towards the development and commercialization of the innovative AI solutions, including for the filing of IP, use of cloud and AI to build their products, talent acquisition, and more.
“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,” Microsoft ASEAN President, Mayank Wadhwa said.
Meanwhile, Enterprise Singapore Managing Director, Cindy Khoo said there’s no question that AI is a game-changer for industries and businesses.
“But we need to be proactive to unlock its transformative potential, and establish the right platforms and partnerships to drive AI innovation,
“We are excited to be working with Microsoft and NUS Enterprise to accelerate funding and commercialization opportunities for cutting-edge AI startups, and grow not
just the next generation of companies but also deepen Singapore’s AI ecosystem,” she added.
NUS Senior Vice President (Innovation and Enterprise), Dr Tan Sian Wee, also said at NUS Enterprise, their 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, helping them grow from strong ideas into globally competitive companies,
“Together with Microsoft and Enterprise Singapore, we aim to connect research, talent, and industry in new ways that will accelerate innovation and position Singapore as a leader in the AI economy.”” he added.
Applications are now open for the upcoming AI Accelerate program, and with the recent surge in interest, the application deadline has extended to November 14, 2025.
To qualify for AI Accelerate 2026, startups must be Singapore-based and post-MVP, with traction such as users, pilots, or revenue.
They must operate in business to business (B2B) or scalable business to consumer (B2C) markets, have AI at the core of their product, be rooted in Asia with global ambitions, and
be privately held.
The 10-week sprint begins in January 2026, culminating in an Investor Day in May 2026, where graduating startups will pitch to venture capitalists and corporate partners.
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