Several large companies are helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) stay afloat as the coronavirus outbreak continues to take a toll on their finances and operations. The initiatives involve providing much-needed relief and training to firms at a time when some government assistance is tapering off as the economy gradually reopens. American software company Salesforce has partnered the Singapore Business Federation to hand out $960,000 in cash grants to eligible SMEs. The programme is expected to benefit 120 firms, which will each receive a grant of $8,000. They can use the funds for their immediate cash-flow needs, such as rent and operating costs, to pay staff wages and to upgrade their skills or to digitalise. Singapore-registered SMEs with at least 30 per cent local shareholding, an annual revenue of $150,000 to $2 million, and which employ between five and 50 employees, are eligible to apply. Applications opened last Monday and close on Dec 23. Firms can go to this website to find out more. Salesforce Singapore vice-president and general manager Cecily Ng said it is the right time for Singapore businesses to tap the grant money to fuel growth, given that the economy ...