“The government is committed to helping SMEs overcome barriers to innovation, R&D and technology adoption. We will ensure that SMEs are not left behind in the technological and digital revolution,” asserted S Iswaran, Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) in Singapore while speaking at SME Day, 2017.
The event was organised by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) and Spring Singapore to highlight initiatives and partnerships for SMEs.
The Minister informed that more than 700 research scientists and engineers have been seconded to work on over 600 projects with local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) since the scheme was started in 2003. He also lauded the partnership between private and public enterprises.
On the occasion, awards were presented to three A*Star researchers who provided research and development expertise to local enterprises to enhance their business competitiveness.
Award was given to senior scientist Dr Sivanand Krishnan who helped land surveyor S C Ang Consortium, to develop and bring to market Global Navigation Satellite System-based solutions for piling applications in the construction industry.
Another notable mention is Dr Chang Chia-Pin, who was attached to Inex Innovations Exchange, a molecular diagnostic company, to enhance the company’s ovarian cancer diagnostic kit. He developed a colourimeter that automatically translates the shade of blue in the test kit to a numerical value, making the results assessment objective.
Dr Pearline Teo was presented an award for her role in helping biomedical company Ayoxxa expand the applications of its protein bio-chip diagnostic kits beyond blood to include new kits for eye fluids.
