Introduction
The SMEs Go Digital programme was developed to help SMEs embrace digital transformation and maximise growth with the help of digital technologies. As part of this programme, support such as enhanced government grants, the Digital Resilience Bonus, SME Digital Tech Hub, Start Digital Packs and more have been introduced.
Spearheaded by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the Start Digital programme was launched in January 2019 and encourages SMEs to adopt digital business processes with comprehensive and low-cost digital solutions. The Start Digital Packs have since gained traction and support from banks, regulators, and SMEs in Singapore.
What is the Start Digital Pack?
A Start Digital Pack is an affordable and fully customisable digital business solutions package created under the government’s SMEs Go Digital programme. Recognised by most corporate service providers in Singapore, the easy-to-adopt and easy-to-deploy programmes and tools included in the package are designed specifically to address the needs of small and medium enterprises that are just starting up or transitioning to the digital scheme. An organisation can pick up the tools or systems they need to get a head start in digitalisation, building a stronger foundation for sustainable business growth.
What are the Benefits of the Start Digital Pack for SMEs?
Aside from the benefits of digitalisation, the Start Digital Pack provides SMEs with the following advantages:
Low Price – The Start Digital Pack includes standard business solutions available in the market but are offered at a much lower price. SMEs can take advantage of rebates and/or free months of access when they sign up. **Freebies will depend on the contract and will differ amongst different partners and providers.
Comprehensive Business Solutions – The Start Digital Pack offers a complete set of business solutions for all business needs. The pack includes programmes and tools on business Accounting and Bookkeeping, HR and Payroll, Digital Marketing, Digital Transactions, Sales and Inventory, Cybersecurity, and others.
Customisable Package – SMEs can pick and choose the programmes they need and leave out those that aren’t relevant to their business. Having the right solutions working for their organisation will help entrepreneurs streamline their processes, and focus more on satisfying their customers and growing the business.
Easy Transition to the Digital World – SMEs adopting the Start Digital Packs will also enjoy professional help and guidance that will ease their entry to digitalisation. Corporate service providers in Singapore can provide an array of relevant tech solutions and training to help businesses digitalise their operations.
Who can apply for a Start Digital Pack?
To qualify for the programme, the business must meet the following criteria:
- Singapore registered and incorporated
- At least 30% ownership is held by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident
- Not more than $100 million in annual sales turnover, or not more than 200 employees
How can I apply for a Start Digital Pack for my business?
Qualified businesses can apply for a Start Digital Pack with any Start Digital Partner. Some of the already approved partners and vendors of the SMEs Go Digital Programme include DBS, OCBC, Maybank, UOB, Singtel, and M1. To apply, simply choose the partner (some partners may require the applicant to have an active account with them), customise your package, and then submit the registration form. When choosing the most suitable partner for your business, it is best to learn more about what the partner is offering and the details of the pack – the rates, the apps available and any help they are willing to extend to their clients.
Start Digital Pack Partners
OCBC and DBS banks are two of the first partners who join the Start Digital programme with great business solutions to offer:
OCBC – The OCBC Start Digital Pack has many digital business applications including accounting, marketing, HR, sales and procurement solutions. Its fully customisable solutions dashboard features are also integrated with e-commerce applications like Google Analytics, Mailchimp and Shopify. The dashboard is free to SMEs with OCBC accounts when they apply for a Start Digital Pack and subscribe to at least two solutions. The package also comes with a choice of two free apps upon sign up: Xero, Quickbooks, Mailchimp, or Shopify, for the first 12 months. Cash rebates are also offered in certain applications. To apply, simply send your account declaration and verification to your bank, choose the apps to purchase and start enjoying the benefits of digitalisation.
DBS – An application for a DBS Start Digital Pack can be made online, with no need for qualified SMEs to physically go to the bank. Application is easily completed within 5 minutes and approval can be expected within 3 business days, when the client’s portal is ready for use. Open to new and existing customers, DBS offers web-based business tools that are designed to streamline processes, increase profitability and enhance business growth. DBS offers up to 18 months of free subscription to their featured solutions upon signing up with their Start Digital Packs.
Solutions under the Start Digital Pack
Start Digital offers a wide range of business solutions for users to choose from. Xero and Financio are two of the most popular business solutions amongst accounting firms in Singapore and Malaysia.
Xero – Xero is a top cloud-based accounting software with business tools integrations that include invoicing, time-tracking, reporting, payments, banking, HR and payroll, inventory, CRM, and bill/expenses management. The user-friendly accounting platform is popular for its groundbreaking and user-focused innovations. Our team at Mighty Glory Corporate Solutions, a certified Xero Advisor, can help you set up your Xero account for your corporate needs, walk you through implementation, and manage your account for you.
Financio – Financio is an all-round business solutions platform specially designed for small and medium businesses. Amongst its key integrations are business apps in invoicing, banking, HR and payroll, collaboration and reporting. Financio also features Lazada, one of the leading eCommerce platforms. The headache of manual stock counts is removed through the seamless synchronizing of price rates and inventory of your eCommerce business with Financio. As one of the pioneer Financio Advisors, we can help you set up your Financio account according to your business needs, implement its use, and manage it so that you can focus on other business priorities.
Conclusion
Connect with us today to know more about the Start Digital Pack! Our team can assist you to choose your partner, help you build your solutions package, and implement the solutions for your business needs. We look forward to helping you achieve your business goals with efficient and holistic solutions.
