SINGAPORE – Imagine strolling into a store where nostalgia meets innovation! That's exactly what Mr. Louis Lim wants at The Memory Frame.sg, a fresh take on traditional photography and framing.

At just 35, Lim has been nurturing his family’s picture frame business in Clementi for 15 years. However, he realized that people craved quicker service combined with artisanal quality. Thus, The Memory Frame.sg was born! With a clever concept of offering partially completed frames, customers can now frame their cherished photographs in just 30 to 45 minutes and potentially save up to $60!

This initiative is part of the new Sprout@AMK concept, officially launched by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong on September 21. The hub showcases the first cohort of 15 businesses nurtured under the Heartland Innovation and Transformation Programme by Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG). The program aims to help local entrepreneurs refine their models while mastering modern skills.

Sprout@AMK is not just a business incubator; it’s a vibrant launchpad for creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Located at Block 713A Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6, this space encourages aspiring business owners to experiment and grow before transitioning to permanent locations.

Participants receive hands-on training in social media marketing from Nanyang Polytechnic lecturers and benefit from mentorship with industry experts. After the initial 12-month lease starting July 2025, businesses can apply for permanent spots under the HDB Enhanced Entrepreneur Scheme, which offers a rental discount for eligible start-ups.

The diverse mix of stores also includes Pitstop by Intertech Hardware, where customers can not only buy home improvement supplies but also utilize a workbench and tools for DIY projects, guided by former teacher Ms. Jasmine Goh.

Then there’s One Kueh at a Time, run by the talented Ms. Karen Kuah, who transitioned from social work to selling delicious Teochew dumplings crafted from a cherished family recipe. Beyond classic dumplings, Kuah has embraced innovation by offering unique fillings and has plans to expand her business even further.

At the grand opening, SM Lee, Ang Mo Kio’s MP, enthusiastically engaged with local entrepreneurs, showcasing the community’s support for innovation. Mr. Jason Lim from EnterpriseSG emphasizes the value of peer support among participating businesses, fostering an environment ripe for testing and developing new concepts with like-minded visionaries.

This initiative is just one of many by EnterpriseSG to drive vibrancy in Singapore’s neighborhoods, including funding for community activities and support for hardware businesses to enhance their retail spaces. The future looks exciting for these heartland innovators!