SGTech, Singapore’s leading tech association with over 1,300 member companies, has launched TechConnect Asia, a new initiative to connect overseas tech companies with Singapore’s vibrant tech ecosystem.
The announcement was made during SGTech’s “Tech Transforms Life” Gala in Singapore, an event celebrating organisations that have significantly advanced sustainability, talent development, and digital transformation in their operations, or have positively impacted others across the industry.
The gala drew over 700 business leaders and Singapore policymakers, with Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat as the Guest of Honour. Joining the Deputy Prime Minister were Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State for National Development and Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How, and Senior Minister of State for Manpower and Defence Zaqy Mohamad.
During the gala, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat delivered the opening speech and officiated the launch of TechConnect Asia alongside SGTech’s Chair Mr Nicholas Lee and founding members, including China Mobile International, Alibaba Cloud, ST Engineering, Inspire-Tech, i-Sprint Innovations and Huawei International.
A two-fold advantage
TechConnect Asia offers a twofold advantage. First, it will facilitate the landing of tech companies from Asia and beyond, providing them with the necessary support and partnerships to navigate and thrive within Singapore's dynamic tech landscape.
Secondly, the initiative also aims to foster collaboration by enabling local businesses to leverage cutting-edge technologies from these companies, thereby strengthening existing capabilities and building new ones.
“Through this initiative, SGTech will create a platform that connects tech companies from Asia and beyond with the tech community in Singapore to create opportunities for collaboration, where global tech leaders can partner with our local businesses, especially SMEs, to level up through knowledge sharing and joint ventures,” said Nicholas Lee, chair of SGTech.
Participating companies will have the opportunity to pitch their solutions and technology to potential partners and investors. Additionally, a support network of mentors, advisors, and industry leaders will be established to facilitate the growth and integration of overseas technology companies entering Singapore, as well as to support local companies looking to expand overseas.
“The ecosystem approach is crucial, as innovation relies on the exchange of knowledge and ideas. The impact of technology is faster and deeper than ever before, but we must work across sectors, across companies, and across borders to navigate this new age,” said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat. “I commend SGTech for the community building initiatives that you are launching.”
During the gala, SGTech Impact Awards were also given out across 3 categories: Digital Transformation, Sustainability and Workforce Transformation. Award winners include 8C8 Cloud, Data Terminator, softScheck Singapore and Fujifilm Business Innovation Singapore (Digital Transformation); Microsoft Operations, Razer, Rentalworks and Sustainable Living Lab (Sustainability); Singtel and Red Alpha Cybersecurity (Workforce Transformation).
