Up to 3,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Singapore will gain access to free AI advancement training through the AI for MSME Advancement in ASEAN (AIM ASEAN) Programme, a regional initiative led by the ASEAN Foundation in collaboration with AVPN, part of the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific, and with support from Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Project Asia Data (by BlackStorm Group) serves as the official implementing partner for the Singapore edition, supporting the regional objectives of the ASEAN Foundation and AVPN under the AIM ASEAN initiative. The Singapore programme officially launched at AIMX Singapore 2025 and has now opened registration for local MSMEs interested in exploring practical AI applications for their businesses.

Helping MSMEs build AI readiness and competitiveness

Small businesses play a vital role in Singapore’s economy, but many still face challenges in adopting emerging technologies. The AIM ASEAN Programme seeks to bridge this gap by offering accessible, hands-on learning designed for non-technical business owners.

Participants will learn how AI can be applied in real-world business contexts—from improving marketing efficiency and customer engagement to enhancing operations and decision-making. The programme adopts a hybrid learning format, combining online self-learning, live sessions, and in-person workshops to make AI education practical and engaging.

“We are proud to bring the AIM ASEAN Programme to Singapore as part of a regional effort to make AI learning accessible to every MSME,” said Jeslin Bay, Co-Founder of Project Asia Data. “Digital transformation doesn’t start with technology — it starts with people. Through this programme, we aim to equip small business owners with the practical knowledge and tools to integrate AI into their daily operations, drive productivity, and stay competitive in an evolving digital economy.”

Also read: AI-powered EPOS360 turns small shops into smart businesses

A regional initiative for inclusive AI growth

The following statements were originally shared in the joint ASEAN Foundation and AVPN media release, “Helping Small Businesses in Southeast Asia Tap into AI: ASEAN Foundation and AVPN Introduce Local Partners for AIM ASEAN Programme,” published on 3 October 2025 via PR Newswire.

The AI for MSME Advancement in ASEAN (AIM ASEAN) Programme is a two-year initiative endorsed by the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on MSMEs (ACCMSME). It aligns with ASEAN Vision 2045, which envisions a resilient, inclusive, and digitally connected regional economy.

Through practical, localised AI training, AIM ASEAN aims to empower 100,000 MSMEs across all ten ASEAN Member States to use AI tools to improve their operations, grow their markets, and build resilience. Beyond the training, the programme will also bring together policymakers and experts through national and regional convenings, building a stronger, more supportive ecosystem for MSMEs to thrive in the AI era.

“We are proud to partner with AVPN, with support from Google.org and ADB, to announce and work alongside these outstanding local organisations,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation. “The AIM ASEAN programme represents a critical step toward equipping MSMEs with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital era. It aligns closely with the aspirations of ASEAN Vision 2045, particularly in fostering a resilient and inclusive digital economy. By helping MSMEs across the region understand and use AI in practical, everyday ways, we’re investing in the long-term strength and sustainability of Southeast Asia’s economy.”

Also read: The AI imperative: Why transactional relationships are obsolete in the new tech ecosystem

AIM ASEAN’s endorsement by ACCMSME confirms its strong alignment with ASEAN’s ongoing efforts to help MSMEs adapt to digital change and stay competitive.

“Building an AI-ready workforce is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s a shared social mandate that governments, businesses, and impact organisations must act on together,” said Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO of AVPN. “Through the AI Opportunity Fund, AVPN is working with local impact partners who bring deep community insights and sector knowledge to ensure AI upskilling is both relevant and scalable. By strengthening these on-the-ground efforts, we aim to catalyse a digital transition that ensures all workers can benefit as Southeast Asia moves towards an AI-enabled economy.”

Registration now open

Registration for the AIM ASEAN Programme – Singapore Edition is now open. MSME owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals can register at: https://projectasiadata.com/aim-asean/ 

Participation is free of charge and open to all eligible MSMEs in Singapore.

—

Want updates like this delivered directly? Join our WhatsApp channel and stay in the loop.

This article was shared with us by AIM ASEAN

We can share your story at e27 too! Engage the Southeast Asian tech ecosystem by bringing your story to the world. You can reach out to us here to get started.

Featured Image Credit: Canva Images

The post 3,000 Singapore MSMEs to receive free hands-on AI training under regional ASEAN initiative appeared first on e27.

Tonik Financial, the controlling shareholder of Tonik Digital Bank and the first licensed digital-only bank in the Philippines, has secured US$12 million in pre-Series C financing as it continues its push towards sustainable profitability and expanded financial inclusion.

The round was led by Diligent Capital Partners, with participation from Plio Limited, existing shareholder Altara Capital, and Tonik’s senior management.

Also Read: How digital banking is driving financial inclusion in SEA

According to the company, the fresh capital will fortify Tonik Digital Bank’s regulatory capital base under regulator Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) requirements, while accelerating continued investment in technology, customer acquisition, automation, and cross-selling.

A trajectory defined by profitability and scale

Tonik said in a press note that it enters this round following three years of scale driven by profitability fundamentals rather than growth-at-all-costs. The digital bank, which closed a US$131 million Series B round in 2022, has grown its loan portfolio 15x to US$83 million, while its annualised revenue now exceeds US$40 million.

The company claims it continues to deliver more than 25 per cent risk-adjusted return on capital (RAROC), and its risk-adjusted gross margin expanded 4.5x over the past twelve months. Contribution margin turned positive in late 2024.

With efficiency gains compounding and operating burn continuing to decline, Tonik projects reaching cash-flow breakeven around the first half of 2026.

A defensible moat built on technology and distribution

Tonik blends low-cost deposit funding, a seasoned AI risk model, and a rapidly expanding B2B2C distribution network. The bank works with nearly 400 employers and more than 500 retail partners, while its cloud-native stack supports real-time underwriting, behavioural scoring, and automated servicing.

This combination “significantly” lowers cost-to-serve, stabilises cost of risk, and enables scale in an underserved yet high-potential market. The country’s unsecured consumer lending landscape (part of a wider Southeast Asian market exceeding US$100 billion) remains one of the least penetrated in the region, providing fertile ground for Tonik’s credit-led approach.

Also Read: Securing tomorrow’s finances: Navigating the rise of digital banks with cybersecurity

Founder and CEO Greg Krasnov said: “This round is about scaling with discipline — protecting our capital ratios while growing a profitable, credit-led model. Tonik was built to prove that financial inclusion in emerging markets can be delivered with truly world-class returns. The momentum we’re seeing in risk performance, technology leverage, and channel scale shows that the model works — and is ready for another 10x in the next 2-3 years.”

Relevance to the Philippine market

Tonik’s growth and this funding round carry significant implications for the Philippines, a country where more than 70 per cent of adults were historically unbanked. By operating with a fully branchless, cloud-based infrastructure and leveraging national payment rails such as PESONet and InstaPay, Tonik enables remote and underserved communities to access financial services through mobile devices.

Its focus on consumer lending, including payroll loans, instalment financing, and digital cash loans, taps into an enormous unmet demand. Tonik’s rapid expansion of its loan book, coupled with declining cost of risk and improving collections, signals that its AI-driven approach is particularly suited to emerging markets where credit histories are often thin.

The deal also reaffirms investor confidence just as the country’s digital transactional ecosystem reaches new highs. Monthly digital transaction values have now exceeded US$110 billion, supported by rising smartphone adoption, strong remittances, and regulatory measures such as BSP Circulars 1195 and 1198, which strengthen user trust and widen accessibility. National payment rail values surpassed US$230 billion (PHP 12.86 trillion) in 2023, with analysts expecting double-digit growth annually through 2030.

A signal for Southeast Asia’s digital banking sector

Tonik is widely recognised as Southeast Asia’s first operational digital bank and one of the earliest to pioneer a credit-led model. Its traction and clear path to profitability offer a compelling blueprint in a region where many digital banks have struggled with high acquisition costs, low deposit stickiness, and challenging economics.

The successful fundraise sends a signal that the region’s digital banking landscape is transitioning from experimentation to sustainable, regulated growth. With more investors prioritising robust credit models and demonstrable profitability, Tonik’s performance could influence how other digital banks in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia shape their strategies over the next five years.

Also Read: Digital bank licences: Why does everyone want a slice of the unbanked?

As the sector continues to mature, Tonik’s combination of AI-led risk management, disciplined balance sheet expansion, and broad distribution may help redefine what a successful digital bank looks like in Southeast Asia, not just in terms of financial inclusion, but also in achieving world-class returns.

The post Tonik secures US$12M to power profitability push as digital bank eyes 2026 breakeven appeared first on e27.

TusStar, the global tech incubator network anchored at Tsinghua University, has expanded its Southeast Asian presence through a new partnership with SEA Bound and AI Singapore, aimed at accelerating the adoption of people-centric, agentic AI.

The three organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bring leading agentic AI companies to Singapore, support local enterprise innovation, and expand regional market entry pathways.

The collaboration is poised to create opportunities for Singaporean companies to co-develop AI-driven projects that directly benefit the workforce and the broader economy.

A central component is the involvement of mid-career apprentices equipped with sector expertise in areas such as accounting, construction, healthcare and transportation. These apprentices work alongside technology companies to refine problem statements, adapt solutions to Singapore’s regulatory environment, and gain market-ready AI skills, ultimately enhancing their employability.

A recent project involving Elixir Technology, a homegrown software platform company founded in 1993, illustrates the potential of the initiative. Through TusStar’s global network, the incubator connected Elixir with Bo Huai Technology, an agentic AI firm boasting more than 100 client use cases.

Also Read: How Agentic AI will create telecom’s first truly autonomous workforce by 2030

Together with support from a mid-career apprentice with an accounting background, the companies are co-developing an agentic reporting workflow solution tailored for financial services firms in Singapore. The project demonstrates how global tech can be customised to local needs through structured collaboration.

According to TusStar, the motivation for signing the MOU stems from a strategic vision that has been five years in the making. “Five years ago, TusStar set up the 160th centre in Singapore to bring tech companies to Singapore, and this year, with the help of SEA Bound and the AI Singapore programme, we are ready to expand the market entry to Southeast Asia,” the organisation noted.

TusStar’s extensive global footprint underpins this ambition—more than 300 locations across 90 cities—enabling it to scout high-potential agentic AI companies worldwide.

The incubator emphasised that supply is not the challenge; instead, the priority is to curate the right market demand and public policy alignment to replicate the success these solutions have achieved overseas.

The partnership also opens doors for participating companies to access IMDA’s SPARK programme, which provides market validation, industry exposure and a structured framework to help promising tech ventures scale effectively.

TusStar views SPARK and AI Singapore as complementary pillars that enable international companies to understand Singapore’s operating environment, while demonstrating the robustness of their solutions.

Also Read: When AI starts acting on its own: What agentic systems mean for the way we work

Crucially, the trilateral model—uniting a global AI innovator, a local enterprise partner and a Singaporean subject-matter expert—is seen as the blueprint for regional expansion. SEA Bound will play a key role in this next phase by leveraging TusStar’s satellite presence across Southeast Asia to help companies scale talent development, reach new customers and capture market share.

“With the addition of Elixir and mid-career apprentices, they will help to customise Bo Huai’s tech solution to meet compliance, security and other product-market fit requirements to operate well in Singapore and Southeast Asia,” TusStar explained.

As more agentic AI companies enter Singapore through this collaboration, the ecosystem is expected to benefit from increased innovation, stronger workforce upskilling and broader participation in regional digital transformation.

TusStar believes the long-term success of the initiative will depend on sustained collaboration. “We believe such trilateral partnerships—between a new agentic AI company, a homegrown partner, and a local subject matter expert—are crucial to success, not just for us but for the host economies and their technology futures.”

The partnership marks a significant step in strengthening Singapore’s position as a regional hub for applied agentic AI and reinforces TusStar’s commitment to bringing global innovation to Southeast Asia.

—

Image Credit: TusStar

The post TusStar strengthens Singapore’s AI ecosystem through new SEA Bound, AI Singapore partnership appeared first on e27.

Asia’s biotechnology sector is rapidly transforming with advancements in technology, substantial investments, and a growing focus on innovation. As home to dynamic economies, Asia is becoming a global hub for biotech R&D. Asian biotech startups lead in gene therapy, sustainable agriculture, and tackling key challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

Asia’s growing biotech sector is fueled by supportive government policies, strong academic and research environments, increasing market demand, and a skilled labour force. This article details these factors, highlights promising biotech startups, explores investment opportunities, celebrates successful entrepreneurs, and predicts future industry trends.

Key factors driving biotech innovation in Asia

Several factors contribute to the burgeoning biotech innovation in Asia:

Government support and policy initiatives

One of the most significant drivers of biotech innovation in Asia is the proactive support from governments across the region. Countries have implemented various policies and initiatives to foster the growth of the biotech sector.

For example, China’s “Made in China 2025” initiative aims to boost its biopharmaceutical capabilities, focusing on innovation and reducing dependency on foreign technologies. Similarly, India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) provides funding and support to numerous biotech startups through various programs and initiatives, such as the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).

Governments are not only offering financial support but also creating favorable regulatory environments that encourage innovation and investment. This includes streamlining approval processes for new biotech products, providing tax incentives for research and development, and fostering public-private partnerships to accelerate the commercialisation of biotech innovations.

Academic and research excellence

Asia is home to some of the world’s leading research institutions and universities, which are pivotal in driving biotech innovation. Countries like Japan and South Korea are renowned for their high research output in life sciences and biotechnology. These institutions provide a robust foundation for biotech research, facilitating the development of new technologies and therapies.

Collaborations between academia and industry are crucial in translating research into practical applications. Universities and research institutes often partner with biotech companies to conduct clinical trials, develop new products, and bring innovations to market. This synergy between academic research and commercial development is a significant factor in the success of the biotech sector in Asia.

Growing market demand

The demand for innovative biotech solutions in Asia is driven by several demographic and economic factors. The region is witnessing a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, which necessitates the development of new and effective treatments. Additionally, an ageing population in many Asian countries is leading to increased demand for healthcare services and biopharmaceuticals.

Also Read: Is a career in biotech right for you?

Economic growth and rising incomes are also contributing to the growing market demand for biotech products. As more people gain access to healthcare and become aware of advanced medical treatments, the demand for personalised medicine, gene therapies, and regenerative medicine is expected to rise. This growing market presents significant opportunities for biotech startups to develop and commercialise innovative solutions.

Availability of skilled workforce

Asia boasts a rich pool of highly skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Countries like India and China produce a significant number of graduates in biotechnology and related fields each year, ensuring a steady supply of talent to support the industry’s growth. These skilled professionals are crucial in driving research, development, and commercialisation of biotech innovations.

The presence of a skilled workforce also attracts multinational companies to set up research and development centres in Asia, further boosting the region’s biotech capabilities. Additionally, the availability of skilled labour at competitive costs makes Asia an attractive destination for biotech investment and development.

Top emerging biotech startups in Asia

Emerging biotech startups in Asia are making significant strides across various fields, ranging from cancer treatment to sustainable solutions. Here are some of the top companies to watch:

• Engine Biosciences (Singapore): This startup focuses on precision medicines for cancer and complex diseases, leveraging AI and machine learning to accelerate drug discovery and development. Engine Biosciences recently raised an additional US$27 million in a Series A extension round, bringing their total funding to US$86 million.
• MxT Biotech (South Korea): Specialising in microfluidic gene editing, MxT Biotech offers innovative solutions for precise gene manipulation, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of genetic modifications.
• Hummingbird Bioscience (Singapore): Known for developing next-generation therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases, Hummingbird Bioscience utilises a unique rational antibody discovery platform. The company has secured significant funding and collaborations with major pharmaceutical companies.
• Tessa Therapeutics (Singapore): This company focuses on advanced cell therapies for cancer treatment. Their innovative Virus-Specific T cell (VST) platform is designed to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapies against solid tumours.
• InnoSpire Bio (China): Specialising in gene and cell therapies, InnoSpire Bio aims to tackle genetic disorders and various forms of cancer. Their cutting-edge research and development have positioned them as a key player in the biotech landscape.
• Hummingbird Bioscience (Singapore): This biotech firm is advancing in the development of antibody therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune diseases. Their rational antibody discovery platform has gained attention for its potential to create highly targeted treatments.​
• Recursion Pharma (China): Utilising machine learning and automation, Recursion Pharma accelerates the drug discovery process, targeting a wide range of diseases with unmet medical needs.

These startups exemplify the dynamic and innovative nature of Asia’s biotech sector, driven by substantial investments and support from both private and governmental entities. Their advancements promise significant contributions to global health and sustainability initiatives.

Investment opportunities in Asia’s biotech sector

The dynamic growth of the biotech sector in Asia presents numerous lucrative investment opportunities. With a conducive environment for innovation and a burgeoning market demand for biotech solutions, investors are increasingly attracted to the region’s potential for high returns. Several avenues are available for those looking to invest in this thriving sector.

Venture capital and private equity

Venture capital and private equity firms are increasingly investing in Asian biotech startups, recognising the high potential for innovation and growth. Notable firms like Sequoia Capital, Temasek Holdings, and SoftBank have made significant investments in the sector.

Also Read: Forte Biotech: Helping farmers with early detection of prawn diseases in Vietnam

Public markets

Several Asian biotech companies have successfully gone public, raising substantial capital through initial public offerings (IPOs). Stock exchanges in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Tokyo have become popular destinations for biotech IPOs, offering investors access to high-growth companies.

Government funding and grants

Governments across Asia are providing funding and grants to support biotech innovation. These initiatives not only foster startup growth but also attract foreign investments, creating a robust ecosystem for the biotech industry.

Strategic partnerships and collaborations

Strategic partnerships between biotech startups and established pharmaceutical companies are common in Asia. These collaborations provide startups with the resources and expertise needed to advance their research and development while offering larger companies access to innovative technologies.

Future trends and predictions for the Asian biotech industry

The future of the biotech industry in Asia looks promising, with several trends shaping its trajectory:

Advances in genomics and personalised medicine

Genomics and personalised medicine are expected to play a significant role in the future of healthcare. Advances in genetic sequencing technologies will enable more precise diagnosis and treatment of diseases, paving the way for personalised therapeutic approaches.

Growth in biologics and biosimilars

The demand for biologics and biosimilars is set to increase, driven by the need for effective and affordable treatments. Asian biotech companies, with their expertise in biosimilar production, are well-positioned to meet this demand and expand their global footprint.

Rise of digital health technologies

Digital health technologies, including telemedicine, wearable devices, and health data analytics, are gaining traction in Asia. These technologies offer innovative solutions for disease management and patient care, complementing traditional biotech approaches.

Expansion into global markets

Asian biotech companies are increasingly expanding into global markets, driven by the need to diversify and access new opportunities. Strategic collaborations and partnerships with international companies will play a crucial role in this expansion.

Focus on sustainable and green biotech

Sustainability is becoming a key focus for the biotech industry, with increasing efforts to develop eco-friendly and sustainable biotech solutions. Innovations in areas such as biofuels, biodegradable materials, and sustainable agriculture are expected to gain momentum.

Final thoughts

The biotech landscape in Asia is vibrant and rapidly evolving, with startups at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations. Supported by favourable government policies, a skilled workforce, and increasing market demand, these startups are poised to make significant contributions to global healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

As the industry continues to grow, investment opportunities abound, and the success stories of visionary entrepreneurs inspire the next generation of biotech leaders. The future of biotech in Asia holds immense potential, promising a healthier, more sustainable world.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image credit: Canva

 

The post Asia’s biotech boom: Innovation, investment, and a new era of discovery appeared first on e27.

My mother used to keep a small silver hair clipper tucked neatly in her cupboard. To anyone else, it looked ordinary — but to her, it was a reminder of who she used to be.

She was once a hairdresser, a volunteer who gave free haircuts to seniors every week. The clipper represented her care, her purpose, her identity. But when dementia began to blur the edges of her memory, she could no longer remember what the clipper was for.

One day, we misplaced it during spring cleaning. She cried for days — not just because she lost an item, but because she lost a piece of herself.

That was when I realised: memory is not just data stored in our brains; it’s the story we tell ourselves about who we are.

When remembering becomes a form of love

As a daughter, it was painful to see my mother forget. But as an educator and storyteller, I saw something deeper — the way familiar visuals, sounds, and words could reawaken a spark inside her.

When I played an old video of her at a community event, her face lit up. For that brief moment, she remembered. Not through logic, but through emotion.

Memory is emotional data. And this is where technology, when used right, can help us not just record information — but preserve identity.

Also Read: Levelling the playing field: How AI can transform SME hiring

The gentle side of AI

When we talk about artificial intelligence, most people think of automation, job loss, or deepfakes. But there’s a gentler, more human side that often goes unnoticed, AI as a storytelling companion.

Today, simple AI tools can help anyone record their memories. You can turn a few voice notes into a short story video. You can animate old photos into lifelike memories. You can even create a digital journal that speaks in your voice.

For families with elderly loved ones, this means something profound — the chance to remember for them. To document not just what they did, but who they were.

As someone who teaches AI storytelling, I’ve seen children record stories about their grandparents. I’ve seen caregivers use voiceovers to narrate family memories. These are not just digital projects; they’re acts of love.

AI becomes a bridge, not between humans and machines, but between generations.

From data to digital legacy

We live in a world where almost every aspect of our lives is stored in the cloud: photos, texts, posts, and playlists. Yet very few of us take the time to intentionally tell our stories.

What if, instead of just collecting data, we curated memories? What if every family had a digital legacy library, stories told in our own voices, photos animated with context, videos narrated with love?

Technology has made that possible. But what makes it meaningful is us, our emotions, our values, our voice.

The future of storytelling isn’t about replacing human creativity. It’s about preserving it.

Also Read: From agritech to AI ops: 15 startups driving Philippines’s innovation shift (Part 2)

Why authenticity matters

As AI-generated content floods our feeds, authenticity becomes rare — and therefore, precious. The real power of AI storytelling lies not in perfect production, but in real emotion. A shaky video of a grandmother telling her story is far more powerful than any polished commercial.

Authentic storytelling reminds us that AI is not here to erase humanity, but to amplify it.

A memory worth keeping

When we eventually found my mother’s clipper, I placed it back in her cupboard. She smiled, ran her fingers over it, and said softly, “This is mine.”

It reminded me that identity can fade, but emotion endures. And that perhaps, the best way to help our loved ones remember is to remember for them — through stories, through art, and yes, even through AI.

So if you’ve ever wished to preserve your parents’ laughter, your children’s first words, or your own journey — start today. You don’t need to be tech-savvy. You just need heart, curiosity, and a willingness to tell your story.

Because one day, that story might help someone — maybe even you — remember who you are.

—

The post Preserving memories in the age of AI: How technology helps us remember who we are appeared first on e27.