The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) is a strategic tool for business growth. Managed by Enterprise Singapore, this grant helps local companies upgrade capabilities, innovate processes, and expand into global markets.
This guide breaks down the EDG. What it funds, who qualifies, the amount of support you can get, and how to apply without making costly mistakes. If you’re serious about growing your business, you need to understand how the EDG can work for you.
What Is the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)?
The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) is a government initiative to support the growth and transformation efforts of Singapore-based businesses. The EDG provides financial assistance to companies looking to enhance their capabilities, innovate, or expand into international markets. It covers three main pillars: Core Capabilities, Innovation and Productivity, and Market Access.
Eligible companies can receive funding support for qualifying projects, with SME’s generally eligible for higher funding percentages than non-SME’s. The grant is designed to help businesses strengthen their foundations, explore new growth opportunities, and enhance their global competitiveness.
What Types of Projects Does EDG Fund?
The EDG focuses on three pillars of business development. Each supports a specific aspect of growth:
1. Core Capabilities
These projects strengthen your business’s internal functions. Covered areas include:
- Business Strategy Development – Crafting long-term growth strategies
- Financial Management – Streamlining financial processes and planning
- Branding & Marketing – Repositioning for competitiveness
- Human Capital Development – Training and talent retention
2. Innovation and Productivity
This category supports businesses looking to automate, redesign workflows, or develop new products:
- Process Redesign – Improving operational efficiency
- Automation – Investing in technology to reduce manual tasks
- Product Development – Creating or refining offerings for market fit
3. Market Access
If you’re looking to expand internationally, this category is for you:
- Overseas Marketing Presence – Branding and marketing in new regions
- Business Development – Building partnerships in target countries
- Market Entry Support – Feasibility studies, localisation, and market validation
Who Is Eligible for the EDG?
To qualify for EDG support, your company must meet all of the following criteria:
- Registered and operating in Singapore
- At least 30% local shareholding
- Financially viable to start and complete the proposed project
- The project must be developmental and not part of routine business operations.
Proposals that demonstrate long-term business improvement and strategic planning stand a better chance of approval.
How Much Can You Get from the EDG?
EDG supports up to 50% of qualifying project costs, and this cap can be increased to 70% for sustainability-related projects, as updated in 2025.
Qualifying Costs Include:
- Consultancy fees (must be from Enterprise Singapore-recognised consultants)
- Software and equipment costs
- Internal manpower directly involved in the project
- Training costs, where relevant to project outcomes
There are no fixed funding amounts. The size of your business, project complexity, and expected outcomes influence the funding quantum.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the EDG
Here’s what you need to do to submit a strong application:
1. Identify Business Needs
Pinpoint the challenge or goal your business is facing. Align it with one of the three EDG categories.
2. Scope of the Project
Define the project’s objectives, timelines, cost structure, and outcomes. Engage an ESG-recognised consultant if required.
3. Prepare Your Proposal
Prepare a detailed business plan and supporting documents, including:
- Latest ACRA Bizfile
- Audited financial statements
- Consultant’s proposal and CV
- Cost breakdown and project milestones
4. Submit via Business Grants Portal (BGP)
All EDG applications must be submitted through the Business Grants Portal using your CorpPass credentials.
5. Evaluation & Approval
Enterprise Singapore will evaluate your proposal. You can expect a response within 8–12 weeks. Proposals are evaluated based on project scope, outcomes, and the service provider’s competency.
What Happens After Approval?
Once your grant is approved, you’re expected to execute the project according to the approved timeline and scope.
Post-Approval Steps:
- Track milestones and costs
- Maintain complete documentation (invoices, contracts, timesheets, etc.)
- Submit a claim through BGP once the project is completed
- ESG may conduct audits before releasing funds
The grant is reimbursement-based, so funding is disbursed after the claim is successfully verified.
Best Practices to Improve Approval Chances
Get your application right from the start:
- Focus on clear, measurable outcomes (e.g. revenue growth, cost savings, new market entry)
- Link the project to your company’s growth plan
- Use structured project timelines and deliverables
- Engage consultants familiar with the EDG evaluation process
- Show skin in the game – financial and leadership commitment
Well-structured proposals signal preparedness and seriousness, increasing your likelihood of success.
Is Your Business Prepared to Leverage the EDG?
The Enterprise Development Grant is built for businesses that are ready to grow. If you have a clear plan and the ambition to scale, this grant can give you the financial boost to make it happen.
But funding alone doesn’t deliver results. It depends on how well your project is scoped, justified, and aligned with EDG’s objectives.
Looking to explore more options? Discover other government grants available for businesses in Singapore and find the right support for your next stage of growth.
