Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore and NUS Enterprise have launched a joint initiative to support 150 AI startups with funding and go-to-market support over the next three years.
The partnership will give eligible startups faster access to the Startup SG Tech grant through the Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) office, along with mentorship and commercialisation guidance from Microsoft and NUS Enterprise.
The collaboration builds on the AI Accelerate programme by NUS Enterprise’s BLOCK71 network and Microsoft.
The 10-week incubator helps startups refine AI products, develop on Microsoft Azure, and connect with mentors, investors, and industry experts.
BLOCK71 spans 11 cities worldwide, providing a global platform for startup growth. The 2025 cohort included 26 startups across multiple sectors.
Mayank Wadhwa, Microsoft’s ASEAN President, said,
“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.”
The expanded programme now features a Go-To-Market component to help startups achieve product-market fit and scale internationally.
Microsoft experts will provide commercialisation guidance, while Enterprise Singapore and Microsoft will identify high-potential startups for grant support through a panel of industry and venture capital experts.
Grants may be used for intellectual property filings, AI and cloud development, and talent acquisition.
Cindy Khoo, Managing Director at Enterprise Singapore, 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 commercialisation opportunities for cutting-edge AI startups, and grow not just the next generation of companies but also deepen Singapore’s AI ecosystem.”
Applications for the next cohort close on 14 November 2025.
Startups must be Singapore-based, post-MVP, and show traction through users, pilots, or revenue.
They must also operate in B2B or scalable B2C markets, have AI at the core of their product, be privately held, and be rooted in Asia with global ambitions.
The programme begins in January 2026 and concludes with an Investor Day in May.
Feature image: (From left) Enterprise Singapore Managing Director, Cindy Khoo; Microsoft ASEAN President, Mayank Wadhwa; and NUS Vice President (Ecosystem Building), Associate Prof Benjamin Tee officially launched the AI Accelerate collaboration at SWITCH 2025.
