Google and UOB launch SME Leadership Academy

The programme features discussions on how to use digital tools for HR and marketing.

Google and UOB have jointly launched SME Leadership Academy, a training programme that aims to equip small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the digital know-how to improve and enhance workplace efficiency, according to a media release 

Also read: SMEs bearish on business prospects for H2 2019

Supported by Digital Industry Singapore (DISG) and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) and launched by Chan Chung Sing, Minister for Trade and Industry, the programme involves interactive discussions and lessons led by business leaders from Google, UOB, and other enterprises.

The programme seeks to offer insights for business leaders to use for implementing data-driven HR strategies like best practices on organisational culture and hiring and leading effective teams, generating digital marketing strategies based on consumer and industry insights, and boosting productivity and creating a collaborative workplace through enterprise software and tools.

"SMEs are the bedrock of Singapore’s economy, and helping them succeed is paramount to building a bright future in the digital economy," Managing Director of Google Southeast Asia Stephanie Davis said.

"Through the SME Leadership Academy, we hope that SMEs will be able to gain the necessary skills and expertise to use technology to improve their performance and to provide a better customer experience," Frederick Chin, UOB's Head of Group Wholesale Banking and Markets said.

SME Leadership Academy builds on Go Global, an initiative by Google that has held free masterclasses and workshops to over 2,700 SMEs in Singapore.

Based on the feedback from pilot batches attended by more than 100 SMEs from various industries such as retail, F&B, engineering, manufacturing, and travel used to develop the programme, the top three obstacles cited were lack of effective digitalisation strategies, followed by lack of talent with sufficient digital know-how, and cost constraints 

The programme will have ongoing cohorts in every quarter until the end of 2020, with the next one on August 13.