SCB and NIA Launch IBE Batch 7: Future SME Intelligence

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), in collaboration with the National Innovation Agency (NIA), has launched the 7th batch of the Innovation-Based Enterprise (IBE) program: Future SME Intelligence. This initiative integrates AI and innovation to empower SMEs with future-ready capabilities, enabling them to transform from technology followers into data- and AI-driven leaders. The program also emphasizes embedding ESG principles into business strategies for long-term sustainability.

SCB Executive Vice President, Head of Business Banking L1, Mr. Suparit Mekaroonkamol stated, “IBE Batch 7 is designed to equip SMEs with the tools to harness innovation and create true differentiation, enabling businesses to stay resilient and competitive in today’s dynamic market. In today’s volatile global environment—rising energy and raw material costs due to Middle East tensions and increasing competition from neighboring peers’ production volume—Thai SMEs can no longer rely on price-cutting strategies to survive. The key to breakthrough growth lies in building unique value propositions, transforming products, services, and business models with AI and data as critical enablers. This will help SMEs make confident decisions amid uncertainty and evolve into genuine innovation-driven leaders.”

As part of the program, participants will engage in AI-focused study tours at AIS Evolution Experience Center (EEC) and Thailand Digital Valley, gaining exposure to cutting-edge technology and business innovation. This year, 79 SMEs from diverse industries have joined the program. Over the six-week course, participants will develop AI-powered innovation projects and present them to SCB and NIA, with opportunities for further support in funding, knowledge, and business networking.

Mr. Mekaroonkamol added, “SCB hopes that IBE Batch 7 will help SMEs identify new opportunities, leverage AI to enhance efficiency, reduce hidden costs, and generate new value for their businesses.”

The program’s opening ceremony was honored by Dr. Uratchwee Unhalekhaka, Assistant Director of NIA, and Mr.Jittipong Loespradit, organizer of MarTech Expo and former President of the Marketing Technology Association, with Ms. Bantida Boonnadetittiroad, Senior Vice President and Director of SCB’s Business Banking Customer Academy, extending a warm welcome to the distinguished guests.

Since its inception, the IBE program has welcomed over 400 SMEs across six previous batches, continuing to strengthen Thailand’s SME ecosystem with innovation-driven growth.

Illustrations & Press Release From:

ประชาสัมพันธ์ ธนาคารไทยพาณิชย์ จำกัด (มหาชน)

สุชีรา พินิจภารการณ์ โทร.094-5192251 Email: sucheera.pinijparakarn@scb.co.th

สุดารัตน์ ชุณหรัต โทร.091-757-7824 Email: sudarat.chunharat@scb.co.th