To keep pace with advancing technologies, a new scheme named Tech Access Initiative (TAI) has been launched in Singapore today to help small-and medium size enterprises (SMEs). The scheme has been launched under the auspices of Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR).
Under the scheme, SMEs will be given access to 19 equipments, such as a metal cold spray and laser power beds, to test prototypes and product measurements.
These equipments will be available at the Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC), Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) and the Industrial Additive Manufacturing Facility (IAMF), which was also launched today.
In addition to this, A*STAR will also provide user training and technical advice to help companies gain the requisite skills to use them. SMEs can experiment with these advanced tools without the need to make costly investments to acquire them upfront. Subsequently, with the experience gained and a better appreciation of the benefits of such tools, SMEs can opt to acquire the equipment to scale up and capture new business opportunities.
SMEs that wish to use the equipment may inform A*STAR via an online portal, and the research agency will then follow up with them.
Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development, while launching Tech Access Initiative, said, “ The initiative, which is being launched today, supports our local manufacturing enterprises, especially SMEs, to build FoM capabilities by providing them with access to A*STAR’s installed base of research equipment and facilities.
The Minister said, “Together with the IAMF, A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) and ARTC will make available 19 different types of equipment under Tech Access. These range from inspection tools to robotised 3D scanners and high-pressure cold sprays for additive manufacturing.”
He added, “With Tech Access, we are stepping up on our efforts to help SMEs innovate and adopt advanced manufacturing technologies, enabling them to transform their operations.”