Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries worldwide, and its impact on startups and small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) is growing every day. This article kicks off a new series by e27 focussed on exploring how AI is reshaping the business landscape for growing startups and SMEs.

Through this series, we aim to provide valuable insights into the increasing relevance of AI, its practical benefits, and the challenges and solutions surrounding its adoption. In each instalment, hear directly from leading companies driving AI innovation as they share insights and offer practical advice for businesses navigating today’s competitive market.

We begin with Alex Chatpaitoon, Marketing Manager for Southeast Asia at iFLYTEK, a global leader in AI and voice technology, to explore how AI is empowering SMEs and how iFLYTEK is shaping this transformative landscape.

What does iFLYTEK do, in a nutshell

We provide a suite of AI-powered tools tailored to SMEs, including voice recognition and natural language processing (NLP) that enhance customer interactions through intelligent voice assistants. Our AI virtual anchors break language barriers by creating multilingual content, supporting global expansion efforts for SMEs. Additionally, our personalized marketing tools leverage customer data to design targeted campaigns, driving higher engagement and boosting sales.

These solutions are designed to help SMEs streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and scale effectively.

iFLYTEK’s journey into AI

Our journey into AI was driven by a mission to enhance communication through technologies like NLP and speech recognition. From the beginning, we aimed to make AI accessible and user-friendly, recognizing its transformative potential to automate tasks, improve efficiency, and deliver personalized experiences. This commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with current industry trends, as more SMEs adopt AI to remain competitive and unlock new growth opportunities.

Why AI is essential for SMEs today

AI is no longer exclusive to large corporations; it has become essential for SMEs to remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business environment. It optimizes operations, enhances decision-making, and creates personalized customer experiences.

By automating routine tasks, improving supply chain efficiency, and streamlining processes like HR and finance, AI enables SMEs to operate more effectively. Additionally, it helps analyse large datasets to uncover insights into customer behaviour and market trends, while personalised marketing powered by AI fosters stronger relationships through tailored experiences.

Also read: The art of AI integration: Growing your business with chatbots and human expertise

The biggest benefits of AI for SMEs

Cost savings and improved efficiency are some of the most impactful benefits of adopting AI. AI-powered tools automate repetitive tasks, optimize workflows, and manage customer inquiries through chatbots and virtual assistants, enabling SMEs to operate more effectively while significantly reducing costs.

AI also transforms customer service, a critical area for SMEs, by providing round-the-clock support through virtual assistants and chatbots. This not only speeds up response times but also greatly improves customer satisfaction.

Challenges to AI adoption

Fear of complexity and concerns about data privacy are among the biggest obstacles preventing SMEs from adopting AI.

To overcome these challenges, it’s important to start small by focusing on specific areas such as customer support or inventory management. Partnering with reliable AI providers and implementing robust cybersecurity measures can also help address these concerns, making the transition to AI smoother and more secure.

Misconceptions about AI

Many SMEs worry that AI might replace jobs, but the reality is quite the opposite. AI is designed to complement human work by automating repetitive tasks, allowing employees to concentrate on strategic and high-value responsibilities. Rather than eliminating roles, AI enhances productivity and empowers teams to work more effectively.

The trends shaping the future of AI for SMEs

In the coming years, we expect significant advancements in cyber protection, with AI-powered tools preventing fraud and ensuring secure transactions, as well as in personalized marketing, where AI analyzes customer behavior to create tailored strategies that boost sales and foster loyalty.

AI will also be pivotal in breaking down global communication barriers. Our AI-powered language solutions enable seamless multilingual interactions, allowing SMEs to connect with diverse markets more effectively.

Also read: How technology can bridge language barriers to build an inclusive society

How can SMEs can start their AI journey

Getting started with AI begins by assessing existing workflows to pinpoint areas where automation can make the most impact. It’s equally important to prepare teams by providing training and addressing any concerns about AI’s role in the workplace. Starting with small pilot projects allows SMEs to test solutions and gradually expand AI integration.

By taking these manageable steps, SMEs can unlock AI’s immense potential without overwhelming their resources.

On iFLYTEK’s role in shaping AI adoption

At iFLYTEK, our contributions to AI innovation include advancements in speech recognition, natural language processing, and multilingual capabilities. Our mission is to break communication barriers and enable businesses to connect on a global scale.

Through the development of cutting-edge AI technologies, we strive to empower SMEs to engage customers more effectively, streamline their operations, and expand their reach with confidence.

 

Founded in 2010, iFLYTEK is a Chinese leader in AI and voice technology, offering development kits such as TTS, ASR, and NLP SDKs that serve over 800,000 developers worldwide. With a mission to enhance human-machine interaction and drive AI adoption across industries, iFLYTEK delivers innovative solutions to transform businesses. Learn more from their website.

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This article is part of e27’s special series on Artificial Intelligence for Startups and SMEs, where we explore the transformative power of AI in helping startups and small and mid-sized enterprises navigate today’s competitive landscape.

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Singapore has emerged as the global leader in AI infrastructure, according to a new study by Arkance, a global platform for digital transformation in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

The study analysed various metrics, including AI venture capital investment, talent pool, research output, broadband speeds, cybersecurity, and government technology maturity, to rank countries based on their AI infrastructure readiness.

Also Read: AI gold rush: How OpenAI’s Singapore expansion could reshape the startup ecosystem

Singapore achieved an impressive score of 8.91 out of 10, securing the top spot. The city-state boasts the highest AI venture capital investment per US$1,000 of GDP, reaching a remarkable US$14 million. This highlights the country’s thriving environment for AI innovation and its commitment to fostering a robust AI ecosystem.

The study also reveals that Singapore excels in AI talent, with 8.80 AI specialists per 1,000 LinkedIn members. Its research output is equally impressive, with 31.8 per cent of research papers involving AI – a staggering 90 per cent more than the United States.

Beyond its strong AI foundations, Singapore’s robust digital infrastructure plays a crucial role in its success. The country boasts impressive broadband speeds of 305 Mbps, outperforming Germany by over 3x. This, coupled with a cybersecurity score of 9.85 out of 10, demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure.

South Korea secured the second position with a score of 7.71 out of 10, demonstrating its strong AI capabilities. South Korea shines in government technology maturity, achieving the highest score of 9.91 out of 10 in this category. The country also showcases advanced AI implementation capabilities with a score of 9.40 out of 10.

The United Kingdom claims the third spot with a score of 6.93 out of 10, highlighting its substantial investments in AI. Notably, the UK boasts the highest cybersecurity score globally at 9.95 out of 10, reinforcing its strong focus on digital security.

Finland and India share the tenth position with a score of 5.26 out of 10. While Finland demonstrates strength in AI talent and research, India exhibits strong progress in AI venture capital investment and research contributions.

The study underscores the growing importance of AI infrastructure in shaping the future.

As Greg Arranz, CEO of Arkance, notes, countries investing in AI infrastructure are positioning themselves for significant growth, global leadership, and breakthroughs in industries that depend on automation and efficiency.

Also Read: One-third of Singaporeans never used AI tools in their workplaces: Survey finds

The rise of AI-powered automation in sectors like AEC offers immense potential for streamlining design, enhancing construction management, and improving project outcomes. Building a robust digital ecosystem encompassing AI talent, research, and reliable internet infrastructure is crucial for advancing local economies and driving innovation.

As the global AI landscape evolves, Singapore’s leadership in AI infrastructure serves as a model for other nations seeking to harness AI’s transformative power. By prioritising key areas like investment, talent development, research, and digital security, countries can pave the way for a future driven by AI-powered innovation.

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Southeast Asia’s tech startup ecosystem witnessed a significant downturn in funding during November 2024, raising concerns about investor confidence in the region.

According to data from Tracxn, startups in the region secured a total of US$84.2 million across 20 funding rounds in November. This represents a substantial decline of 66.18 per cent compared to the previous month and a 76.55 per cent drop compared to the same period last year.

Also Read: Healthtech, edutech dominated SEA’s funding scene in past 5 years: Tracxn

The data highlights a worrying trend of declining investments in Southeast Asian startups. While several factors could contribute to this downturn, including global economic uncertainties and a potential shift in investor focus, it underscores the challenges startups face in securing capital.

Despite the overall slump, some venture capital firms remain active in the region. Notable players like Skyland Ventures, Wavemaker Partners, Kopital Ventures, and Skystar Capital participated in multiple funding rounds during November. These firms appear to be strategically targeting specific sectors and startups with strong growth potential, even amidst a challenging funding environment.

Key highlights from the November funding landscape include:

• Total funding: US$84.2 million across 20 rounds.
• Most active VCs: Skyland Ventures, Wavemaker Partners, Kopital Ventures, and Skystar Capital.
• Top deals: StakeStone, Cycle Network (Wavemaker Partners), Portcast, Pi-xcels (Kopital Ventures), Dat Bike, Mimin (Skystar Capital).

Also Read: Smaller in numbers, bigger in impact: Female founders secure larger seed rounds

The November funding figures serve as a stark reminder of the startup ecosystem’s volatility. While Southeast Asia holds immense potential for tech innovation and growth, startups and investors must navigate the current funding climate cautiously and adapt their strategies accordingly.

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In the global landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship, Singapore and Israel have emerged as formidable startup powerhouses. Despite their geographical and cultural differences, both nations have cultivated vibrant startup ecosystems that have driven impressive technological and economic growth.

This article delves into the comparative strengths and dynamics of Singapore and Israel, two hubs that are shaping the future of global innovation.

Strengths of Singapore

Singapore’s ascent as a startup hub is underpinned by several key factors:

Pro-business policies and ease of doing business

The Singaporean government has established a highly conducive regulatory environment for business operations. Ranked second globally in ease of doing business, Singapore benefits from streamlined processes for company registration, favourable tax policies, and robust intellectual property laws. These factors have made it an attractive destination for international entrepreneurs looking to set up shop in Asia.

Strategic geographic location

Situated at the crossroads of major global trade routes, Singapore serves as a gateway to the burgeoning markets of Southeast Asia. The city-state’s position has facilitated easy access to a diverse and expansive customer base, which continues to drive regional growth. Southeast Asia’s digital economy alone is projected to reach US$363 billion by 2025, providing ample opportunities for startups to tap into emerging markets.

Government initiatives and infrastructure

Programs like the Smart Nation initiative and investments in digital infrastructure have accelerated Singapore’s tech capabilities. Government agencies such as Enterprise Singapore and the Economic Development Board actively support startups through funding, mentorship, and expansion programs.

In 2021 alone, the government committed approximately US$25 billion to research, innovation, and enterprise efforts for the next five years, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation.

Education and talent development

Singapore’s emphasis on education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), has cultivated a highly skilled workforce. The country ranked 19th globally for its digital skills proficiency, with particularly high levels of talent in emerging areas like AI and data analytics. This focus on STEM and collaborations between universities and industries create a continuous pipeline of talent to fuel the startup ecosystem.

Also Read: Money travelling: Insights from Singapore Fintech Festival on travel and finance

Strengths of Israel

Often dubbed the “Startup Nation,” Israel has built a dynamic startup ecosystem characterised by several unique advantages:

Culture of innovation and risk-taking

With a societal embrace of entrepreneurship and a willingness to take risks, Israel has developed a fertile ground for startups. This mindset is reflected in the numbers: Israel boasts the highest number of startups per capita in the world, with approximately 6,000 active startups in a country of just nine million.

Strong venture capital ecosystem and private funding

Israel’s venture capital landscape is robust, with significant investments fuelling startup growth. Despite adverse geo-political circumstances, recent fund-raising rounds have included series A rounds such as the US$10M raised by cash management startup Panax; to a US$200M series D raised by Armis security which increased its valuation to US$4.3 billion. Such funding rounds underscoring the confidence investors have in Israeli innovation.

Military technologies

Israel’s military, particularly its elite Unit 8200, has produced a wealth of technological expertise that transitions into the civilian sector. Many cybersecurity startups in Israel trace their roots to technologies originally developed for defence. This advantage has contributed to Israel’s leading position in cybersecurity innovation, with the country accounting for nearly 31 per cent of global cybersecurity investments in 2020.

Focus on deep tech and cutting-edge industries

Israeli startups frequently engage in deep tech fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Israel ranks 10th globally in AI research output, with a strong focus on sectors like medical AI, which has driven innovations that contribute to advancements in health tech worldwide.

Also Read: 5 common mistakes in financial modelling during startup fundraising

Comparative growth dynamics

While both countries have thriving startup ecosystems, their growth dynamics differ:

Cultural attitudes toward entrepreneurship

Israel’s informal, direct communication style promotes rapid decision-making and adaptability—traits well-suited to the fast-paced startup world. In contrast, Singapore’s structured culture places a stronger emphasis on planning and risk mitigation, a difference that shapes how startups in each country approach challenges and opportunities.

Regulatory frameworks and government support

Singapore’s government takes a proactive role in supporting startups through grants, tax incentives, and infrastructure development. Meanwhile, Israel leans more heavily on private sector initiatives and venture capital to fuel growth. The two approaches reflect the unique strengths of each nation: Singapore’s stable, top-down government support and Israel’s agile, innovation-driven private sector.

Challenges faced

Both nations face limitations. Singapore, with its smaller domestic market, often requires startups to pursue international expansion early. Israel’s startups, on the other hand, contend with geopolitical challenges and similarly rely on global markets from the outset. These factors drive both ecosystems to prioritise adaptability and global reach.

Global impact and future outlook

Both Singapore and Israel wield significant influence over global tech trends. Singapore’s strategic location and pro-business environment position it as a gateway for startups looking to penetrate Asian markets.

Meanwhile, Israel’s deep tech capabilities contribute to advancements in diverse industries, from AI to cybersecurity. As startup ecosystems, both countries offer valuable insights into fostering innovation and scaling businesses on a global stage.

Whether it’s Singapore’s regulatory strengths or Israel’s culture of bold innovation, each country provides a unique model for building a thriving, globally impactful startup environment.

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Inside SAFE STEPS: How community engagement and tech innovation drive disaster resilience

In recent years, Asia has endured a series of devastating natural disasters. From the relentless monsoon floods in India and Pakistan to the widespread destruction caused by Typhoon Saola in the Philippines and Hong Kong, the region is no stranger to the force of nature. These calamities have underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to protect vulnerable communities and strengthen disaster preparedness. With climate change intensifying the frequency and severity of such events, the time for action is now.

Against this backdrop, Prudence Foundation brought together innovators, industry leaders, and passionate advocates in a virtual forum. D-Tech Spotlight: Disaster Resilience via Technology, held last 27 November, showcased what technology can do to mitigate disasters. Central to the event were 13 innovative startups revolutionising this space. Joining them were Amazon Web Services (AWS), the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), and other key organizations, supported by the leading tech media platform, e27.

Also read: Can Southeast Asia’s climate tech heroes bridge the gap between profit and planet?

Prudence Foundation leading the charge in disaster resilience

With climate change accelerating the frequency and severity of natural disasters, the need for innovative solutions to build resilience has never been more urgent. “With increasing threats from climate change, the need to build resilience and support disaster mitigation solutions has never been greater,” said Nicole Ngeow, Director of the Prudence Foundation. She underscored the foundation’s long-standing commitment to disaster risk reduction, particularly through its flagship initiative, the D-Tech Awards. This program identifies and supports emerging technologies that can protect lives and livelihoods before, during, and after disasters.

The program has evolved over the years into a powerful community-driven initiative. Specifically, it aims to catalyze investments and innovations focused on disaster resilience. By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, Prudence Foundation fosters collaboration. Together, they tackle the growing challenges posed by climate-related hazards. Its stakeholders include startups, government agencies, and private sector leaders. Through programs like D-Tech Awards and D-Tech Community Hub, the foundation seeks to promote scalable solutions. These not only address immediate disaster impacts but also strengthen communities in the long term. As a result, communities are better prepared for future crises.

Building resilience together: Insights from leaders at D-Tech Spotlight

Tuan Nguyen, AWS Senior Partner Lead for the Public Sector Industry (APAC), then shared insights into Amazon’s disaster preparedness efforts. This includes their work with CropIn to reduce crop loss using climate-resilient technologies. Through this collaboration, AWS helps provide farmers with predictive analytics and real-time weather data.  This optimizes agricultural practices, ensuring that crops are better protected against unpredictable climate patterns. “Since 2017, we’ve responded to 145 natural disasters, leveraging cloud technology to enable solutions like climate-resilient agriculture,” he shared.

Takeshi Komino, Vice President of Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN), spoke on the resilience movement in Asia. He acknowledged the region’s vulnerability to disasters and called for a transformation towards greater resilience by 2030. He stressed the need for innovation, particularly in addressing cascading risks from climate-related disasters. Building on this, UNDRR’s Yanick Michaud-Marcotte reinforced the importance of the private sector in disaster risk reduction. He noted their work with organisations like ADRRN and emphasised the shared responsibility between government, private sector, and technology providers in reducing disaster impacts.

Showcasing health and water sanitation tech

D-Tech Spotlight showcased a series of innovative companies that are transforming disaster preparedness and response using technology. This includes sectors like healthcare, water and sanitation, disaster management, connectivity, mobility, and community resilience.

StratifiCare and HELF AI are using AI and predictive analytics to address health risks during natural disasters. StratifiCare focuses on optimizing hospital resources during dengue outbreaks, using StratifiDen, a predictive blood test, to prioritize patient care and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations. HELF AI, through its platform, provides real-time guidance for healthcare professionals in emergencies, improving decision-making and disaster management in developing regions.

Wateroam and DayZero are tackling water scarcity and purification in disaster-affected areas. Wateroam’s portable filtration systems, such as the ROAM Protector Plus, provide clean drinking water in under an hour, with the goal of reaching 30 million people by 2030. DayZero offers a UV water purifier that works without external power, ensuring access to safe drinking water in emergencies. Both companies focus on supporting Sustainable Development Goal 6 by improving water access during disasters, and their technologies are already being tested and implemented in regions affected by crises.

Also read: Living in the age of disasters: How global partnerships are shaping D-Tech

Highlighting monitoring and communication

The D-Tech Spotlight session also highlighted advances in disaster management and monitoring. Alerto PH uses IoT and AI to deliver early alerts for natural hazards like storms and floods, enabling more effective emergency response. USHER Technologies monitors earthquake and structural health in real time, protecting critical infrastructure, while Kinetic Analysis Corporation provides predictive modeling for tropical cyclones, helping governments and businesses prepare for and mitigate disaster impacts. These technologies aim to enhance disaster resilience through early warning systems, improved infrastructure safety, and predictive analytics.

In the realm of connectivity, Kacific Broadband Satellites is addressing the need for reliable communication in remote regions, offering satellite-based internet and portable kits for disaster response. Similarly, Bike Scouts, through its SuperScout App, connects local communities and provides real-time disaster monitoring using AI and mesh networks. These technologies empower communities to respond more effectively to disasters, bridging communication gaps during crises and ensuring better coordination among responders.

Also read: Inside SAFE STEPS: How community engagement and tech innovation drive disaster resilience

Innovative mobility solutions for disaster response and rescue

The Go Bike Project from the Philippines and Uptime Rescue by Zeal Industries showcase how mobility can transform disaster response and safety. Go Bike trains youth volunteers, equipping them with bicycles outfitted with emergency supplies to deliver aid swiftly in disaster-stricken areas. Since its founding in 2019, the initiative has expanded to 41 communities with 2,000 volunteers actively participating in preparedness drills and healthcare services. By empowering local youth and fostering partnerships with governments and NGOs, Go Bike not only enhances disaster readiness but also promotes health and eco-friendly transport. Discussions around its scalability and potential for international youth collaborations highlight its far-reaching impact.

Zeal Industries’ Uptime Rescue targets small-scale fishers in high-risk areas with an innovative wearable tracking device integrated into clothing. Automatically activated in emergencies, it provides real-time location tracking, drastically reducing rescue times and increasing survival rates. With a hybrid funding model and recognition from prestigious awards like the Responsible Seafood Innovation Award, Uptime Rescue is poised to enhance maritime safety for vulnerable fishing communities. Together, these initiatives exemplify how mobility-driven solutions can address land and sea challenges, fostering resilience and saving lives.

Fostering community resilience through tech and collaboration

Lastly, Lambdai Space and Boosty are driving community resilience through their respective technologies. Lambdai Space uses satellite data and AI to monitor climate risks and improve disaster risk reduction, especially in agriculture and insurance. Boosty connects communities to clean energy solutions and emergency services, ensuring reliable power during crises and contributing to long-term sustainability. These companies exemplify how technology can support communities in adapting to climate change and building resilience against future disasters.

One clear takeaway at D-Tech Spotlight was the growing importance of collaboration across sectors to drive change in disaster preparedness. As Nguyen remarked, the presence of both private and public organisations underscored why unified efforts can improve disaster resilience. Together, NGOs, startups, and governments reflect the growing recognition that unified efforts are key. This cross-sector collaboration not only strengthens disaster management but also promotes long-term resilience. Ultimately, more lives are saved and economic and social impacts are minimised.

Also read: Empowering disaster resilience via technology with D-Tech Spotlight

Forging ahead with SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards

“The journey toward disaster resilience doesn’t end here,” said Ngeow. “Through the SAFE STEPS D-Tech Community Hub, we aim to foster continuous innovation and collaboration.” A major part of this initiative is the SAFE STEPS D-Tech Awards. Established to foster more resilient communities, it aims to harness the power of technology to mitigate the loss of life and reduce the economic and social impacts of disasters. Through collaboration with its partners, the program offers a platform for technology solutions to thrive and help communities better prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

The virtual event supported by e27 concluded with the announcement of important dates for the 2025 D-Tech Awards. Applications will open on 3 February 2025, followed by a virtual launch on 10 February, and the virtual semifinals on 30 April. The in-person finals will take place at Echelon 2025, a key gathering for tech innovators and entrepreneurs hosted by e27, on 11 June 2025. The D-Tech Awards aims to continue empowering startups and organizations with the resources to drive disaster resilience solutions and create lasting impact in vulnerable communities.

Want to join the D-Tech Community Hub? Sign up here!

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This article is produced by the e27 team

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