Singapore, November 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Up to 3,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Singapore will now have access to free AI advancement training through the AI for MSME Advancement in ASEAN (AIM ASEAN) program. The program is a regional initiative led by the ASEAN Foundation in collaboration with AVPN, part of the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia Pacific Region, with support from Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Project Asia Data (by BlackStorm Group) will serve as the official implementing partner for the Singapore version, supporting the ASEAN Foundation and AVPN’s regional goals under the AIM ASEAN initiative. The Singapore program was officially launched at AIMX Singapore 2025, opening registration for local MSMEs interested in exploring practical AI applications in their businesses.
Helping MSMEs build AI readiness and competitiveness
Although SMEs play an important role in Singapore’s economy, many still face challenges in adopting emerging technologies. The AIM ASEAN program aims to bridge this gap by providing accessible, hands-on learning designed for non-technical business owners.
Attendees will learn how AI can be applied to real-world business situations, from improving marketing efficiency and customer engagement to enhancing operations and decision-making. The program uses a hybrid learning format that combines online self-study, live sessions, and in-person workshops to make AI education practical and engaging.
Jeslyn Bay, co-founder of Project Asia Data, said: “We are proud to bring the AIM ASEAN program to Singapore as part of our regional efforts to make AI learning accessible to all MSMEs.” “Digital transformation doesn’t start with technology, it starts with people. Through this program, we aim to provide small business owners with practical knowledge and tools to integrate AI into their daily operations, increase productivity, and remain competitive in an evolving digital economy.”
Regional efforts for inclusive AI growth
The following statement was originally shared in a joint media release by the ASEAN Foundation and AVPN.Helping Southeast Asia’s SMEs leverage AI: ASEAN Foundation and AVPN introduce local partners for AIM ASEAN program,” was published on October 3, 2025 via PR Newswire.
The AI for MSME Advancement in ASEAN (AIM ASEAN) program is a two-year initiative endorsed by the ASEAN Coordinating Committee for MSMEs (ACCMSME). This is in line with ASEAN Vision 2045, which envisions a resilient, inclusive and digitally connected regional economy.
Through practical, localized AI training, AIM ASEAN aims to enable 100,000 MSMEs across all 10 ASEAN member countries to use AI tools to improve their operations, grow markets, and build resilience. In addition to training, the program will bring together policymakers and experts through national and regional meetings to build a stronger, more supportive ecosystem for MSMEs to thrive in the AI era.
Dr Piti Srisannam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, said: “We are proud to partner with AVPN, with support from Google.org and ADB, to announce and collaborate with these outstanding local organizations.” “The AIM ASEAN program represents an important step towards equipping MSMEs with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital age. This is closely aligned with the goals of ASEAN Vision 2045, especially in fostering a resilient and inclusive digital economy. By helping MSMEs across the region understand and use AI in a practical and everyday way, we are investing in the long-term strength and sustainability of Southeast Asia’s economies.”
ACMSME’s support for AIM ASEAN confirms its strong collaboration with ASEAN’s continued efforts to help MSMEs adapt to digital change and remain competitive.
“Building an AI-enabled workforce is no longer a ‘nice to have’. It is a common social mission that requires governments, businesses and influential organizations to act together,” said Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO of AVPN. “Through the AI Opportunity Fund, AVPN is collaborating with influential local partners who bring deep community insights and domain knowledge to ensure AI upskilling is relevant and scalable. By strengthening these on-the-ground efforts, we aim to accelerate the digital transition that ensures all workers benefit as Southeast Asia moves towards an AI-enabled economy.”
Now accepting registration
Registration for the AIM ASEAN Program – Singapore Edition is now open. MSME owners, entrepreneurs and professionals can register below. https://projectasiadata.com/aim-asean/
Participation is free and open to all eligible MSMEs in Singapore.
About AIM ASEAN
AIM ASEAN is a two-year regional initiative of the ASEAN Foundation in collaboration with AVPN under the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia Pacific, with support from Google.org and the Asian Development Bank. It aims to empower 100,000 MSMEs across all 10 ASEAN member countries. AIM ASEAN helps small business owners use digital tools to improve operations, expand markets, and build resilience through hands-on, localized AI training. The program will also bring together policymakers and experts to strengthen the ecosystem that enables MSMEs to thrive in the digital era.
About Project Asia Data (by BlackStorm Group)
Project Asia Data specializes in delivering AI-driven solutions to help businesses succeed in a rapidly changing world. By focusing on people, products, processes, and positioning, Project Asia Data helps organizations harness the power of AI to innovate, optimize, and excel. For more information about Project Asia Data, please visit: https://projectasiadata.com/.
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SOURCE BlackStorm Consulting Pte.
