UOB has launched the next phase of its UOB FinLab AI Ready programme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping businesses move from AI exploration to implementation and scale.

Led by UOB FinLab, the Bank’s strategic community enabler for SMEs, the enhanced programme introduces three new focus areas: a peer-led community for practical learning and exchange, hands-on prototyping workshops to accelerate experimentation, and enhanced financing options to support AI adoption. Delivered in partnership with IMDA, AI Singapore and Microsoft, the programme brings together capability building, ecosystem connectivity, expert guidance and access to funding to help SMEs translate AI potential into measurable business outcomes. 

Since its launch in July 2025, the programme has reached more than 600 SMEs through over 10 workshops covering AI awareness, use-case identification, implementation planning and executive leadership. These efforts have been complemented by more than 50 personalised AI discovery engagements and over 800 ecosystem connections  facilitated among SMEs, technology providers and industry experts. 

Participating SMEs have reported up to a 125% increase in lead generation through AI-powered customer acquisition tools, up to a 30% reduction in tender preparation time, document reviews shortened from hours to minutes and improved operational accuracy through AI-enabled validation workflows. 

Building on this momentum, UOB aims to expand the programme’s reach from 600 SMEs in its first year to 3,000 SMEs by Year 3, supported by a growing ecosystem of partners, technology providers and business leaders. 

Through this expanded ecosystem, UOB seeks to help SMEs adopt AI with greater confidence, realise productivity gains, strengthen competitiveness and achieve sustainable business growth in an increasingly digital economy.