Singapore Launches Digital Leaders Accelerator Bootcamp to Support Enterprise AI Adoption

Singapore has launched a new Digital Leaders Accelerator Bootcamp (DLAB) to help enterprises move from AI experimentation to practical implementation. Rolled out by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) on 20 March 2026, the programme is part of the National AI Impact Programme and is designed to support business leaders in delivering early-value AI projects while building long-term digital capabilities. The initiative reflects a broader effort to embed AI adoption across the economy.

The announcement was made by Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister for Digital Development and Information, at the IMDA DLAB Launch Reception 2026. According to IMDA’s official release, the new bootcamp builds on the Digital Leaders Programme, which has supported digitally progressive enterprises since 2021.

From AI Pilots to Organisational Readiness

The DLAB is targeted at senior business leaders from enterprises that are already digitally engaged and are seeking to scale AI use across their operations. Rather than focusing solely on technology deployment, the programme addresses the organisational, process and change management requirements that often determine whether AI initiatives succeed.

Participants work on real business challenges, using AI to address issues such as cost pressures and productivity constraints. By implementing small-scale, practical projects during the bootcamp, enterprises are expected to build confidence in deploying AI solutions that can later be expanded across teams and functions. This applied approach aligns with wider efforts to support applied AI innovation for SMEs and larger local firms.

Partnerships with Global Consulting Firms

To deliver the bootcamp, IMDA is collaborating initially with Boston Consulting Group and EY-Parthenon. The partnerships are intended to combine global experience in AI transformation with local market understanding, providing enterprises with structured guidance on identifying viable use cases and integrating AI into existing workflows.

The inaugural DLAB run will begin on 26 March, led by EY-Parthenon. Boston Consulting Group is scheduled to commence its sessions from the second quarter of 2026, with IMDA planning to onboard additional industry partners over time to extend the programme’s reach across sectors.

Structured Stages for AI Transformation

Over the course of the bootcamp, participating Digital Leaders progress through a structured process designed to translate business priorities into actionable digital plans. This includes defining high-impact problems, assessing suitable AI tools, and testing solutions that can be delivered within a three-month timeframe.

• Identifying priority challenges: Enterprises define clear problem statements with measurable objectives.
• Designing AI solutions: Participants evaluate digital approaches, costs and expected benefits.
• Delivering early-value projects: Small-scale AI solutions are developed and tested to demonstrate tangible outcomes.
• Committing to long-term transformation: Enterprises produce an implementation roadmap with milestones and performance indicators.

Alongside project delivery, the programme covers core topics such as business process redesign, data management, infrastructure planning and cybersecurity. These elements are intended to support sustainable AI adoption and complement other national initiatives focused on enterprise digitalisation, including the work of Enterprise Singapore.

Supporting National AI Ambitions

IMDA has set a target to support 2,000 Digital Leaders across different sectors in harnessing AI over the next three years. The DLAB represents a shift towards more hands-on, outcome-driven support, with structured engagement between enterprises and IMDA to explore tailored assistance, including the development of in-house digital teams.

By focusing on practical implementation and organisational capability-building, the bootcamp is positioned to help enterprises move beyond isolated pilots towards coordinated AI strategies that deliver measurable public and economic value.