By LI DAN WEI

ALL places for the first entrepreneurship training courses at Singapore Polytechnic and Temasek Polytechnic have been filled less than a month after Spring Singapore launched the programme for PMETs (professionals, managers, executives and technicians).

The two polys are the first to offer the courses since the programme was announced on July 10. Two other polys - Ngee Ann and Republic - have also come on board.

'We've had a very good response to the courses,' said Arthur Poh of Singapore Poly's Department of Industry Services. 'Originally, we planned for a class of 25, but have decided to organise two classes of 35 to run concurrently. We are still receiving enquiries and these people have been placed on a waiting list.'

PMETs have been hardest hit in the downturn, accounting for 42 per cent of total retrenchments between January and March this year. Many have industry knowledge and contacts but lack entrepreneurial skills. Spring has been working with the polys to develop courses to help these people start their own business. It has set aside $500,000 to support the courses until May 2010.

Each participating polytechnic will receive up to $100,000 to develop curriculum and deliver the courses. With the funding, up to 70 per cent of course fees are supported.

The courses include modules on marketing, accounting and HR, with a focus on know-how such as company registration procedures and financing sources and schemes.

PMETs who have at least diploma qualifications can apply for the courses. Those at Temasek Poly start in August while those at the other three polys start in September.

A total of 500 places will be offered by the four polys.

Trainees have to submit a viable business plan at the end of the course and will be assessed based on this submission. Those who are successful will be awarded a certificate.

This article was first published in The Business Times.