S1E1: AI ready: How Singapore SMEs are turning anxiety into advantage

The AI future is here, but for many SMEs, adoption feels overwhelming. Discover how UOB FinLab's 'AI Ready' programme transformed this anxiety into competitive advantage for second-generation businesses. Hear how to turn operational bottlenecks—from repetitive tasks to client generation—into practical, de-risked AI solutions. Learn how to scale efficiently without a massive hiring spree. Synopsis: The Business Times Podcast Channel presents diverse perspectives, in-depth analysis and news covering career, business, markets, investing, current affairs and tech. This episode is produced in collaboration with UOB. Highlights: 01:21 Why AI is no longer optional for SMEs 04:08 UOB's Awareness-Action-Acceleration framework 07:49 From cold calls to AI lead generation 09:11 You don’t need an AI team, just AI muscle 12:15 Keeping the momentum More about: AI Ready SME Elevate UOB FinLab Community --- Send us your questions, thoughts, story ideas, and feedback to [email protected]. --- Written and hosted by: Howie Lim ([email protected]) With Eelen Lim, programme director, UOB FinLab and Ecosystems; and Elson Low, director at Events Partner Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro Produced by: Howie Lim & Chai Pei Chieh Executive producer: Claressa Monteiro A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media --- Follow BT Podcasts: Channel: bt.sg/pcOM Apple Podcasts: bt.sg/pcAP Spotify: bt.sg/pcSP YouTube Music: bt.sg/giK9 Website: bt.sg/btpod Feedback to: [email protected] Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice.  --- Discover more BT podcast series: BT Money Hacks at: bt.sg/btmoneyhacks BT Correspondents at: bt.sg/btcobt BT Market Focus at: bt.sg/btmktfocus BT Lens On: bt.sg/btlensonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.