Singapore’s hunt for AI stars risks alienating small players
The government is going well beyond the US$700 million it has committed to artificial intelligence research
[SINGAPORE] As the AI race heats up, Singapore is trying to recreate the magic of Block71, the startup hub that gave rise to home-grown tech darlings such as Carousell, 99.co and Carro.
In March, JTC – the government-linked real estate developer behind Block71 – unveiled plans to build an AI-focused startup community dubbed “Kampong AI”. The name is an ode to the community spirit of early village settlements of the 1950s.
Slated for 2028, the area will have a living and working block that will house up to 70 companies and 200 residential units. Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development Alvin Tan called it “Singapore’s hub and home for AI” and said the project will let “AI founders and tech professionals live and work together, creating spontaneity”.
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