April 03, 2017, 04:32 PM 
Here’s a quick lazy-ass summary of some of the Budget 2017 measures for SMEs in English:
The economy is sluggish,
global protectionism is scary,
our productivity needs greater breakthrough,
and performance across sectors is uneven.
But it’s not all doom and gloom.
Nah, here are some Government measures to help SMEs out.
We need to level-up our skills, stay nimble, and be in touch with the world.
What are some of those measures? We have the Tech Access Initiative, Global Innovation Alliance, SMEs Go Digital, Public Sector Construction Productivity Fund and more masterplan-sounding measures with big words.
We know that some of you have found these plans too cheem technical to understand.
So without further ado, here are our interpretations.
1. Tech Access Initiative
No, not this kinda machine.
Who to disturb: Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR).
Technical blah blah blah: Aimed at building up SMEs’ innovation and technological capabilities by providing access to A*STAR’s specialised equipment to allow SMEs to develop, prototype and test new products. A*STAR will also provide user training and advice on the use of these machines.
Of course, there will be tutorials to guide you along the way.
English, please: It’s like having free access to a fully-equipped gym WITH a personal trainer available. Sweet.
2. Global Innovation Alliance
This kinda works like Tinder. But don’t do a Vince Vega.
Who to disturb: Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), IE Singapore (IES), and the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB).
Technical blah blah blah: For local enterprises to gain access to overseas markets, for students and business owners to get overseas exposure and to connect foreign businesses looking to expand in the region with local partners.
Probably the best way to expose yourself. Legally.
English, please: It’s like Tinder but run by the government, which means a higher chance of getting a match.
3. SMEs Go Digital
Okay, not so high tech.
Who to disturb: Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA).
Technical blah blah blah: Help SMEs adopt digital technologies to maximise the potential of their day-to-day business, increase revenues, and tap new markets.
Both the SME centres and a new SME Digital Tech Hub will provide assistance and guidance to SMEs who require resources such as data analytics and digital ordering and payment.
English, please: IT helpline for SMEs.
4. Public Sector Construction Productivity Fund
This is productivity on steroids. Nah, it’s just a timelapse.
Technical blah blah blah: About $150 million in funds to offset the higher costs of procuring “innovative and productive” solutions for public sector construction projects, such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) technologies. Because the government has more budget to adopt “innovative and productive” solutions, the SMEs with such solutions at the nascent stage have more opportunities to enter the market.
English, please: A $150 million war chest to help you turn into the Tony Stark of construction companies. Iron Man Suits to speed up overall construction perhaps?
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That’s not all -- other measures announced in the 2017 Budget that SMEs can benefit from include the enhanced corporate income tax rebate, the extension of additional Special Employment Credit and A*STAR Headstart Programme.
So to SMEs, it’s time to take advantage of all the help you can get. Stay nimble, continue to amass business capabilities, build networks -- and you’ll be well on your way to success.
This MOF-sponsored post helps Mothership survive another day. Because we’re an SME too. Part of the 99%, yo.
Top image by Goh Wei Choon
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