SINGAPORE - Start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can now seek free business advice and opportunities across Asia using a new mobile app from DBS Bank.

With the DBS BusinessClass app, entrepreneurs can consult and connect with industry experts, investors and fellow entrepreneurs. The app will also keep users up to date on news and events relevant to the start-up scene, including exclusive networking events.

"Fast-growing SMEs need help connecting with investors and experts when they are scaling up their business," said Mr Lim Chu Chong, head of SME Banking at DBS, in a statement released Tuesday.

"By building a mobile platform which allows SMEs to access business advice, insights and exclusive networking opportunities, we hope to help SME owners build social capital and sharpen their competitive edge."

So far, DBS has engaged more than 20 business experts, seasoned entrepreneurs and investors to join DBS BusinessClass' panel of advisors, and more will be coming on board over the next few months.

App users can reach out to any advisor by sending them a chat message on the app, or by starting an online discussion and tagging the appropriate advisors.

The DBS BusinessClass programme will also be rolled out regionally so users can meet other entrepreneurs from DBS' other key markets of China, India, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Dr Alex Lin, a venture capitalist and new DBS BusinessClass advisor, believes that the programme will help nurture Singapore's start-up scene. "DBS BusinessClass is a good initiative to help bring the fragmented tech start-up community together," said Dr Lin.

The DBS BusinessClass app can be downloaded for free on iOS and on Google Play.