• Empowers SMEs through connectivity, digitalisation and sustainable finance
• Drives significant growth and impact through innovative solutions
• Recognised for outstanding leadership in the SME banking sector

Singapore, 7 April 2025—UOB Singapore has been named Best SME Bank in Singapore at The Asian Banker International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2025, in recognition of its strategic focus on empowering SMEs through digitalisation, ecosystem connectivity and sustainable finance solutions.

SME banking as a core growth driver

UOB positions SME banking as a strategic growth engine, holding one of Singapore’s largest SME balance sheets and serving over 120,000 SME customers. Most of these are micro and small businesses, demonstrating UOB’s commitment to supporting underserved segments with the resources they need to grow. 

Through tailored financing products such as the Start-Up Business Loan, UOB has driven a 48% year-on-year increase in its micro business portfolio, ensuring that working capital is available where it matters most.

Empowers digital transformation at scale

UOB’s BizSmart initiative supports over 48,000 SMEs in digitising their operations. Many of these businesses have reduced costs by up to 35% through digital tools integrated across areas like point of sale, accounting, payroll and more.

UOB leads the industry in digital adoption, with over 96% of SME accounts digitally active and more than 60% of SME customers onboarded digitally —well above the market average. 

UOB’s SME app and UOB Infinity platform work in tandem to streamline banking and operations. The SME app gives business owners on-the-go access to banking, personalised insights, and an interactive dashboard that shows cash flow, accounts receivable and accounts payable. Meanwhile, the UOB Infinity platform enhances financial supply chain management, helping SMEs automate workflows, unlock liquidity and scale efficiently.

Builds purpose-driven ecosystems and communities

UOB extends support through dedicated ecosystems that help entrepreneurs grow and future-proof their businesses.

The Womenpreneurs Series provides targeted financing, mentorship and networking for female entrepreneurs, addressing their unique challenges and ambitions. The Business Circle brings together over 1,200 SMEs across ASEAN, fostering knowledge exchange and cross-generational connections to support current and next-generation SME leaders.

These initiatives strengthen resilience and build relationships that go beyond transactional banking.

Drives long-term pathways to sustainable financing

UOB’s commitment to sustainable growth is reflected in its Sustainability Compass programme, which has helped over 5,000 SMEs begin or advance their green transition. This has led to a 40% increase in sustainability-linked loan facilities, enabling more businesses to align their strategies with long-term environmental goals.

UOB’s holistic model for SME banking combines digital innovation, strategic financing, inclusive programmes and a strong focus on sustainability. Its platforms simplify operations and unlock working capital, while dedicated ecosystems empower business owners through mentorship, knowledge-sharing and community support.

By aligning financial solutions with the evolving needs of SMEs and supporting them beyond banking, UOB creates meaningful impact at every stage of growth. Its commitment to enabling future-ready, resilient businesses continues to set the standard for SME banking in Singapore.