Databricks, a leading Data and AI company, has announced Singapore as its new regional hub for the Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) region. The move emphasises Singapore’s growing importance as a key digital and innovation center in the region. The company also revealed plans to significantly expand its Singapore-based workforce to support this strategic development.

In collaboration with the Singapore Economic Development Board, Databricks will be adding critical roles in field engineering, professional services, strategy, operations, and learning and enablement. These roles will be crucial in enhancing the company’s ability to meet the growing demand for data intelligence solutions across the region. Additional details about this expansion are expected to be announced in 2025.

Databricks’ decision to establish its regional headquarters in Singapore was highlighted at the Data + AI World Tour Singapore event by Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information & Ministry of National Development. He emphasized Singapore’s appeal as a hub for Southeast Asia, citing its strong digital and logistics connectivity, skilled workforce, and vibrant innovation ecosystem.

“Databrick’s decision to locate their regional HQ in Singapore reflects the advantages that Singapore offers as a hub for Southeast Asia. Databricks would be a valuable addition to our technological landscape, and their presence here will help us meet our AI ambitions,” said Mr Tan.

Commitment to Singapore’s AI Ecosystem

Databricks is not only increasing its workforce but also contributing to Singapore’s broader AI ecosystem. The company is set to launch initiatives in line with Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0 to upskill local talent in data and AI. This effort will be executed in partnership with the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).

Working with NTUC LearningHub and NUS ICT Academy – two of IMDA’s Information & Communications (I&C) Jobs Transformation Map (JTM) Training Partners—Databricks aims to train more than 10,000 individuals in advanced data and AI skills over the next three years. These training programs will include both digital and in-person sessions designed to help participants master fundamental data and AI technologies and understand how to leverage Databricks tools and services.

“NTUC LearningHub is proud to collaborate with Databricks to empower the local workforce by equipping them with in-demand and emerging skills to navigate the evolving technological landscape,” said Amos Tan, Chief Core Skills Officer at NTUC LearningHub. “We are committed to strengthening the pool of tech talent, helping Singapore to position itself as the regional hub for emerging technologies.”

Highlights from Data + AI World Tour Singapore

The announcement was made at the Data + AI World Tour Singapore, an event that attracted over 1,000 data and AI leaders and practitioners. The event featured sessions that showcased real-life use cases from successful data and AI-driven organizations, including Grab, GovTech, Central Provident Fund Board, bolttech, and Suntory Beverage & Food.

This Singapore leg of the tour is part of a global series spanning 18 key cities worldwide, serving as a platform for data and AI professionals to connect, learn, and share best practices.