Singapore Launches 'Champions of AI' Program to Drive Economy-Wide Transformation and Productivity Boom

Singapore has unveiled the Champions of AI program to embed artificial intelligence across its economy, positioning the nation as a global AI leader amid uncertainties.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) will launch the initiative later in 2026, selecting Singapore-based companies to integrate AI into core operations for measurable productivity gains.

Building on AI Foundations

This builds on prior efforts supporting over 60 companies in establishing in-house AI Centers of Excellence.

Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong described AI as a critical enabler for securing 2-3% annual growth and good jobs over the next decade.

The program complements sector-specific AI Missions targeting advanced manufacturing, connectivity, finance, and healthcare to define breakthroughs and build ecosystems.

Innovation Hub and Real-World Impacts

A new AI Park, dubbed Kampong AI at one-north, will serve as a collaboration hub for researchers, talent, and companies to scale solutions.

DBS Bank exemplifies success, generating S$1 billion in economic value from AI and data analytics in 2025 alone.

At DBS, AI slashed trade documentation processing times by 60%, enabled real-time fraud detection, and upskilled 40,000 employees for higher-value roles.

Participating champions commit to redesigning processes, executing transformation projects, and retraining workforces for AI-enabled jobs like data specialists and AI practitioners.

Historically, initiatives like Lorong AI have shortened AI development paths and spurred demand for advanced skills clusters.

Looking ahead, Singapore aims to become a trusted hub for AI assurance, cybersecurity, and scaling amid global fragmentation.

Gan Kim Yong affirmed that with unity, agility, and people investment, Singapore will shape its AI-powered future.