Meta has unveiled a new artificial intelligence (AI) acceleration program for startups in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region that integrates Lamaits open source AI model, in their products. The program will provide developers with access to AI models and resources to help them create AI applications.
In Singapore, Meta has also launched an AI Incubator Program, supported by Digital Industry Singapore (DISG), to help 100 companies deepen their understanding of Generative AI (GenAI) and Llama. Around twenty participants will also be supervised by technical and commercial experts to develop, refine and launch applications based on Llama.
Philbert Gomez, executive director of DISG, said Meta’s AI incubator program shows how Singapore continues to support businesses in adopting cutting-edge technologies such as GenAI.
“By equipping local businesses with technical expertise and mentorship, this initiative drives innovation and helps businesses unlock new opportunities through AI. We are proud to collaborate with Meta on this program, which closely aligns with our National AI 2.0 Strategy to deepen AI capabilities and ensure that Singapore remains a key hub for AI development in the region,” he added.
The launch event for both programs took place in conjunction with the Meta APAC AI Accelerator Finals at the Meta APAC headquarters in Singapore. More than 720 companies and developers from across the region submitted projects showcasing use cases for Llama in education, utilities, and economic development. Top finalists from 13 markets presented their solutions at the event, competing for grants to continue their work.
Nick Clegg, President of Global Business at Meta, said: “Open source AI helps ensure that more people can access the opportunities offered by AI. I am very encouraged to see the vibrant developer community in the APAC region and how governments are welcoming AI innovation and the benefits it will bring to the region.
Traversaal.ai from Pakistan won the regional final, receiving a $100,000 grant for using Llama to create a large language model specializing in Urdu, which is spoken by 250 million people worldwide. The first and second runners-up from Indonesia and New Zealand received grants of $15,000 and $10,000 respectively.
Globally, Meta works with governments, AI associations and incubators to drive AI innovation. It recently launched the Llama Impact Innovation Awards for startups using Llama 2 or 3 to address social challenges. The National University of Singapore has received an award for Aisee, a wearable assistive device to help visually impaired people “see” using AI.
In December 2023, Singapore updated its national AI strategy focus on broader adoption of AI; inspire individuals and businesses to act with the ambition of becoming a global leader in AI; and work with stakeholders in Singapore and outside to exchange ideas and administer AI-based solutions at scale.
