More SMEs successfully build sustainability capabilities under DBS, Enterprise SG programme
The initiative provides training, carbon assessments and strategy development and implementation
In April 2024, DBS, in collaboration with Enterprise Singapore, introduced the ESG Ready Programme to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing and implementing sustainability strategies. Over the course of a year, 50 companies across various sectors successfully completed the programme. These companies had access to training, carbon assessments, and strategy development and implementation, enabling them to adopt sustainable practices and access DBS' sustainable financing packages.
Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling emphasized the importance of transitioning sustainability from a theoretical concept to practical business action. She highlighted that businesses can benefit from government support, industry partnerships, and solution providers to build capabilities, finance green projects, and adopt energy-efficient solutions.
DBS group head of corporate and SME banking, Chen Ze Ling, reported that since the program's launch, more than 160 businesses have joined, demonstrating a growing commitment to translating sustainability ambition into tangible action. One of the programme graduates, Freshening Industries, reduced emissions and energy consumption by implementing solar panels, electrifying their fleet, and enhancing automation.
Another graduate, Amara Holdings, a hospitality and property development company, aims to cut approximately 20,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over the next 15 years through their decarbonisation initiatives.
As of this year, 73 enterprises have successfully completed the programme, with DBS expecting the number to reach 100 by the end of 2026. The DBS Sustainability Day, themed "From Ambition to Action," focused on how companies across industries can use sustainability to reduce costs, improve operations, and bolster long-term resilience.
According to DBS's 2026 Business Pulse Check Survey, 49% of the 730 surveyed companies considered themselves sustainability-ready, signaling a positive trend. However, with one in four respondents still feeling unprepared, more assistance is needed to help them take practical steps to strengthen their businesses.
Written by urgent.news from The Business Times - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
