
Upskilling: A Key Strategy to Futureproof SMEs in a Digital and Sustainable Economy
Upskilling is the key for SMEs to thrive in a digital and sustainable economy—and UOB FinLab is here to make it happen.
It is not difficult to find an agency that can run Google ads. The crux for many brands is understanding the intricacies of building and running an optimised campaign.
Frieda Lee, General Manager at leading ASEAN digital & search engine marketing agency Webnatics asserts that the use of search engines for marketing is imperative for boosting sales:
“Search engines are really important because that’s the first starting point of anybody who wants to do a search. Searches are also a way to capture mindshare, and funnel people into your website from the digital marketing space,” she said.
Many SMEs cannot afford the high costs associated with hiring a dedicated digital marketing manager, or approaching an external agency to run their marketing campaigns.
“SMEs are basically stretched by two things – know-how and time – which means that they can’t hire a marketing manager or digital manager at $3000 a month to run a campaign because they don’t want to bear that kind of overheads. They also want to DIY, so they want somebody who can run their campaigns at top-notch level at maybe $500 a month, that’s how our agency goes in,” Frieda said.
SMEs can also take the omnichannel approach to marketing to enhance customer experience, and ensure customers enjoy a seamless and consistent experience across physical and digital touch points. In essence, brands that can offer a frictionless experience will come out on top.
If you have a technology solution to help SMEs grow, apply here.
Upskilling is the key for SMEs to thrive in a digital and sustainable economy—and UOB FinLab is here to make it happen.
UOB FinLab Indonesia held a series of its UKM SUKSES programmes, benefitting various Indonesian founders. The programme covered various topics such as smart tax strategies, health talks, business solutions, and financial foundations for startups alongside speakers who are experts in their field.
Continuing from last year, #UOBxWomenpreneurs series returns in 2025, organised by Business Banking Singapore (BBS), UOB FinLab, and Group Wholesale and Markets Marketing (GWMM) to engage and empower women entrepreneurs in Singapore. The initiative creates a strong platform for women-led businesses to access practical resources, mentorship, and a supportive network as they grow and lead with confidence.
Designed for business owners to enhance their digital capabilities through practical learning, this programme takes businesses to the next level.
Designed for business owners to enhance their digital capabilities through practical learning, this programme takes businesses to the next level.
Bridge ideas and innovation, subscribe to the FinLab Connect now!