Daily Briefing: EDB unveils new startup programme; NEA and SkillsFuture Singapore launches Hawkers' Development Programme

And a third of businesses plan to restructure amidst trade disputes.

From Human Resources Online:

The Economic Development Board (EDB) and Enterprise Singapore have implemented the Tech@SG programme, an assistance programme that was first announced in July 2018 to aid fast-growing tech companies via accessing critical talent.

Under Tech@SG, eligible companies will be able secure up to 10 new Employment Passes (EPs) over two years for foreign employees who will be hired as part of the core team in Singapore. The first renewal of each new EP obtained under the programme will also be insured.

The entry to the programme requires a list of qualifications which include an Incorporated business entity in Singapore with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), a digital or technology offering as the business’s core product or service, and a secured funding of $13.4m (US$10m) in the past 36 months.

Read more here. 

From Channel News Asia:

The National Environment Agency (NEA), together with SkillsFuture Singapore have launched today the Hawkers’ Development Programme, a new programme which aims to encourage younger hawkers to join the trade

First announced in September in 2018, the programme comes on the back of feedback from young hawkers on the need for mentorship and guidance from veteran hawkers, according to Amy Khor, senior minister of state for environment and water resources.

“There are challenges that make people hesitate – long hours, hard work, business risks. So just passion alone, although it is a very good starting point, is not enough,” said Ong Ye Kung, Minister for education.

NEA expects to train at least 100 aspiring hawkers in the next three years.

Read more here. 

From Human Resources Online:

According to a survey by TMF Group, a good number of Singapore businesses are putting strategic plans in place to mitigate risks from global developments, such as the US - China trade dispute, Brexit US, and EU trade tensions.

About one-third of Singapore businesses surveyed (33%) said that they have plans to restructure parts of their business, such as modifying their supply chains in order to avoid the risk of trade disputes.

Defence plans by businesses also include increasing their operations by expanding their workforce and boosting production capabilities in other countries to avoid being affected by trade disputes (38%).

Businesses are also planning to reduce their operations in countries affected by Brexit and trade wars, with 37% and 34% of respondents respectively.

Read more here.