Advanced Info Service (AIS) has collaborated with the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) to introduce “AIS Infinite SMEs,” a customized program designed to enhance the operations of local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through knowledge sharing and innovative solutions.
According to AIS CEO Somchai Lertsutiwong, over 99% of Thai businesses are SMEs, forming the backbone of the nation’s economy. These enterprises contribute more than 35% to Thailand’s GDP and employ 70% of the workforce.
“Building their capabilities and upgrading their operational standards are vital for ensuring their long-term resilience and sustainable growth,” Mr. Somchai stated. The company plans to support at least 200 SMEs in the program by the end of this year.
Reflecting on its history, Mr. Somchai noted that AIS laid the groundwork for digital innovation in Thailand 15 years ago, starting with “AIS The StartUp,” the nation’s first large-scale startup initiative, which continues to energize the startup ecosystem today. AIS celebrates supporting over 100 startups, helping bring their products and services to market and enabling entrepreneurs to expand into sectors aligned with global trends.
Aligned with its vision of “AI for Sustainable Nation,” which focuses on leveraging intelligent networks and artificial intelligence (AI), AIS Infinite SMEs aims to unlock growth opportunities and elevate Thai SMEs to international standards through the “3S” strategy:
- Skill: Equip SMEs with the necessary digital skills for stable growth.
- System: Strengthen their back-end infrastructure to meet international standards and support scalability.
- Soar: Expand opportunities through certified, credible systems like ISO standards, boosting SME credibility among partners and investors and opening new growth channels.
This initiative is a joint effort involving public and private sector partners, financial institutions, and industry experts, including the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the MAI Listed Company Association, and the Association of Family Business Entrepreneurs. AIS has allocated 100 million baht to fund the program in its initial phase.
Apichit Prasoprat, Vice Chairman of the FTI, highlighted that Thailand’s economy faces multiple challenges, including US tariffs, rapid technological change, and environmental crises, all of which influence production and consumer behaviors. These factors have spurred new business trends, notably environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks, now vital on the global competitive stage.
The FTI partners with AIS to bolster SMEs through initiatives promoting international standard certifications and creating the Small & Medium Industrial Institute, aimed at fostering stronger growth for industrial SMEs.
Mr. Apichit emphasized the FTI’s “4 Go” strategy: Go Digital & AI, Go Innovation, Go Global, and Go Green. The federation also advocates for promoting the “Made in Thailand” initiative, encouraging Thais to support and trust local products, thereby increasing their value and improving the competitiveness of Thai businesses both domestically and internationally.
