Securing funding is often one of the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs and business owners. Fortunately, Singapore has built a robust ecosystem of government-backed grants designed to accelerate business development, innovation, and global expansion.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the various business grants available in Singapore, including who they are for, what they offer, and how to apply. If you’re serious about unlocking government support to grow your business, this is the reference you need.
Understanding Business Grants in Singapore
Government business grants are non-repayable funds provided by government agencies to support specific business initiatives. Unlike loans, grants don’t incur interest and don’t need to be paid back, provided you meet the stated conditions. They’re designed to reduce financial barriers, drive innovation, boost productivity, and support strategic expansion.
Who Provides These Grants?
Several key agencies administer grants across different business areas:
- Enterprise Singapore (ESG) – Oversees core SME development and expansion schemes.
- Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) – Focuses on digital transformation and tech adoption.
- Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) – Provides fintech-related support.
- Workforce Singapore (WSG) – Supports manpower development and enterprise training.
- Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) – Caters to high-growth and globally competitive enterprises.
Each grant is purpose-built to serve a particular growth stage or industry need.
Other Government Support and Business Perks in Singapore
In addition to grants, Singapore offers a range of other business-friendly perks that support growth and innovation. These include tax incentives, R&D support, digitalisation programmes, and regulatory frameworks that make it easy to operate and expand.
Discover more business perks that make Singapore one of the world’s most attractive places to run a business.
Key Business Grants Available in Singapore
Below, we break down the major grants you can access, explaining what each one supports, the available funding amount, and who it is intended for.
1. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
The EDG helps Singapore businesses grow and transform under three main pillars:
- Core Capabilities – Support for strengthening the business foundation, including strategy development, branding, financial management, service excellence, and HR development.
- Innovation and Productivity – Assistance for exploring new growth areas, product development, process redesign, automation, and operational efficiency.
- Market Access – Designed to support international expansion through support for M&A, standards certification, pilot projects, and overseas marketing.
The grant funds up to 70% of qualifying costs for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and up to 50% for non-SMEs. These costs can include software and equipment, consultancy, and workforce.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be registered and operating in Singapore
- Have at least 30% local shareholding
- Be financially stable to start and complete the project
2. Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)
The Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) is designed to support Singapore businesses in enhancing their efficiency through the adoption of pre-approved digital and equipment-based solutions.
Eligible businesses can receive up to 50% funding support, with a maximum grant cap of S$30,000. The solutions covered under PSG include sector-specific technologies tailored for industries such as retail, construction, food services, logistics, and manufacturing. It also covers broadly applicable systems, such as digital marketing platforms, inventory tracking tools, human resource management systems, and accounting software.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be registered and operating in Singapore
- Have a minimum of 30% local equity held by Singaporeans or PRs
- Have an annual sales turnover of not more than S$100 million or fewer than 200 employees
- Use the approved solution only within Singapore
- Not be a charity, religious organisation, VWO, or government-affiliated entity.
Note: Applications must be submitted before signing any contracts or making payments to vendors. Pre-committed purchases will render the grant ineligible.
3. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA)
The Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) grant is specifically designed for Singapore businesses taking their first steps into international markets. It helps establish a presence overseas by providing financial support across three key areas: market promotion, business development, and market set-up.
Under the MRA, eligible companies can receive up to S$100,000 per new market. This is broken down as follows:
- Up to S$20,000 for overseas marketing and promotional activities
- Up to S$50,000 for business development efforts such as market research or in-market personnel
- Up to S$30,000 for establishing physical presence or operations in the target market
The grant supports up to 50% of eligible expenses and is currently extended through 31 March 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be registered and operating in Singapore
- Have at least 30% local shareholding
- Not have annual overseas sales exceeding S$100,000 in the target market within the last three years.
This grant is particularly valuable for businesses venturing abroad for the first time, helping them mitigate early-stage internationalisation costs while gaining a foothold in foreign markets.
4. Startup SG Founder
The Startup SG Founder grant targets first-time entrepreneurs and provides a startup capital grant of up to SGD 30,000. This is a co-matching scheme where the government contributes SGD 3 for every SGD 1 raised by the entrepreneur. This means the startup must invest at least SGD 10,000 to receive the full amount.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be Singapore citizens or permanent residents and apply through an Accredited Mentor Partner (AMP). They must also:
- Hold or propose to hold at least 30% equity in the company
- Be dedicated full-time to the business (not employed elsewhere)
- Not having received prior government funding
- Either incorporate a new private limited company after approval or own an existing company that is no older than six months and has at least a 51% Singaporean shareholding.
The AMP will also provide mentorship to guide the entrepreneur through the early stages of building a viable business.
3. Startup SG Tech
Startup SG Tech supports the commercialisation of innovative technologies through two types of grants: Proof of Concept (POC) and Proof of Value (POV).
- POC projects (to test the technical or scientific viability of early-stage ideas) can receive up to SGD 250,000.
- POV projects (to validate lab-proven technologies in real-world environments) can receive up to SGD 500,000.
Target industries include:
- Advanced manufacturing and robotics
- Biomedical sciences and healthcare
- Clean technology (e.g., sustainable energy, waste management)
- ICT and communications
- Precision engineering
- Transport technologies
- Food science and technology
Eligibility Criteria
- Be registered and operating in Singapore for less than five years
- Have at least 30% local shareholding
- Generate less than SGD 100 million in annual revenue or employ fewer than 200 people.
5. Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG)
The Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) supports businesses in their transition toward sustainability by funding projects that reduce energy consumption. Specifically aimed at businesses in the food services, manufacturing, and retail sectors, this grant co-funds the purchase of energy-efficient equipment that can lower operating costs and improve resource utilisation.
Under the EEG, eligible companies can receive up to 70% funding support to cover qualifying costs. These typically include energy-saving appliances, such as LED lighting systems and energy-efficient chillers, as well as eco-friendly kitchen equipment, all of which align with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be registered and operating in Singapore
- Have at least 30% local shareholding
- Be financially stable and capable of completing the project
This grant aligns with national sustainability goals and is designed to encourage businesses to take practical steps toward reducing their carbon footprint while improving business efficiency. Support is usually disbursed within a few months following the successful implementation of approved projects.
Sector-Specific & Niche Grants
In addition to broad-based grants, Singapore offers sector-specific and niche funding programmes to meet the diverse needs of businesses in specialised industries. These grants are typically offered by government agencies overseeing specific sectors such as media, tourism, health, and sustainability.
1. Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) Grants
The IMDA offers a range of grants to support businesses in the media and communications sector, through initiatives such as the SMEs Go Digital Programme and content creation grants. IMDA also provides grants for content development, such as the Media Talent Progression Programme (MTPP) and Media Enterprise Programme (MEP), which fund long-form and short-form media projects.
- For digital adoption under the SMEs Go Digital initiative, up to 70% of costs for pre-approved solutions are covered.
- For content creation, funding ranges from SGD 15,000 for short-form projects to SGD 600,000 for long-form international co-productions.
Eligibility Criteria
Singapore-registered companies or media companies that engage in information and communications or media-related activities. For content grants, applicants must have a track record in producing media content.
2. Health Promotion Board (HPB) Grants
HPB offers several grants aimed at promoting health and wellness initiatives within communities and organisations. HPB grants encourage businesses, organisations, and community groups to implement health-related initiatives such as fitness programs, nutrition education, mental wellness activities, and chronic disease management.
- Health Ambassador Grant: Funding ranges from SGD 2,000 to SGD 5,000 per year, depending on the type of activity (e.g., fitness groups or sports events).
- Constituency Health Promotion Grant: Up to SGD 10,000 annually for community health programs targeting nutrition, physical activity, mental wellness, and more.
Eligibility Criteria
Businesses, community organisations, or individuals involved in health promotion. Specific grants, like the Health Ambassador Grant, require applicants to have volunteered with HPB or completed relevant training.
3. Business Improvement Fund (BIF)
The Business Improvement Fund (BIF) is a grant scheme introduced by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). The BIF aims to support projects that lead to business transformation, capability development, and long-term sustainability in the tourism sector. It focuses on technology innovation, process redesign, and service excellence to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
The BIF provides up to 70% funding support for SMEs and up to 50% for non-SMEs for qualifying costs, which include consultancy fees, hardware and software solutions, equipment costs, and training expenses. The final funding amount depends on the project’s scope, level of innovation, and anticipated outcomes.
Eligibility Criteria
The fund is open to Singapore-registered tourism-related enterprises, including hotels, travel agencies, attractions, MICE organisers, and lifestyle businesses with a strong focus on tourism. Eligible companies must have a local shareholding of at least 30% and be financially viable to start and complete the project.
4. Future Energy Fund
The Future Energy Fund encourages businesses to invest in energy transition and sustainable development projects, focusing on building critical infrastructure for clean energy innovation.
The fund is part of an SGD 5 billion allocation, which will be used to support the development of critical infrastructure and innovation in clean energy technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
Businesses involved in clean energy initiatives are eligible for funding. This includes companies developing renewable energy technologies or infrastructure projects like undersea cables and hydrogen terminals.
Grant Comparison Table
Here’s a comparison of Singapore’s most prominent business grants, outlining how much support you can expect, what each grant is designed for, and who it’s best suited to. Use this summary to match your business needs quickly with the most relevant government support available.
| Grant Name | Max Funding | Use Case | Agency | Ideal For |
| Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) | Up to 70% (50% for non-SMEs) | Business growth, transformation, international expansion | Enterprise Singapore | SMEs looking to scale and improve efficiency |
| Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) | Up to 50% (capped at S$30,000) | Pre-approved digital and equipment solutions | Enterprise Singapore / IMDA | Businesses seeking tech adoption and productivity gains |
| Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) | Up to S$100,000 (50% support) | Overseas marketing, set-up, and business development | Enterprise Singapore | Businesses expanding into new international markets |
| Startup SG Founder | Up to S$30,000 | Co-matching capital grant for first-time founders | ESG + Accredited Mentor Partners | First-time entrepreneurs launching startups |
| Startup SG Tech | Up to S$500,000 | Proof-of-Concept and Proof-of-Value tech commercialisation | Enterprise Singapore | Early-stage, IP-driven tech startups |
| Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) | Up to 70% | Energy-saving equipment in food, retail, and manufacturing | Enterprise Singapore | Businesses implementing sustainability measures |
| SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) | S$10,000 credit | Workforce upskilling, enterprise transformation | ESG / WSG | Employers contributing CPF for local staff |
| IMDA Grants | Up to 70% (tech), up to S$600,000 (content) | SMEs Go Digital, content production funding | IMDA | Media and ICT-related businesses |
| HPB Grants | Up to S$10,000 | Community wellness and corporate health programs | Health Promotion Board | Organisations supporting public health |
| Business Improvement Fund (BIF) | Up to 70% (50% for non-SMEs) | Tourism business innovation and service design | Singapore Tourism Board | Tourism-focused companies and lifestyle brands |
| Future Energy Fund | Part of S$5 billion allocation | Clean energy infrastructure and innovation | Various Gov. Agencies | Companies in renewable energy development |
How to Apply for Business Grants
Applying for business grants in Singapore involves a structured process that requires careful preparation and adherence to specific guidelines. Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for business grants in Singapore:
1. Identify Relevant Grants
Each grant has specific objectives and eligibility criteria, so it’s crucial to choose one that aligns with your business goals. Here are some key considerations when selecting a grant:
- Research: Visit government agency websites, such as Enterprise Singapore, IMDA, and the Singapore Tourism Board, to identify grants that align with your business needs.
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure your business meets the eligibility criteria for the chosen grant, which typically includes being registered in Singapore and having a minimum of 30% local shareholding.
- Grant Objectives: Align your project with the grant’s objectives and priorities.
2. Prepare Necessary Documents
This step is crucial as incomplete applications may be rejected or delayed. Here are the key documents you need to prepare:
- Business Registration Documents: Ensure your company is registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
- Financial Statements: Prepare audited financial statements or management accounts for the past three years. Newly incorporated companies may submit unaudited statements or management accounts that are endorsed by a shareholder or director.
- Project Proposal: Develop a detailed project proposal outlining objectives, timelines, and budget breakdowns.
- Quotations: Obtain quotations from pre-approved vendors for solutions like IT equipment or consultancy services, especially for grants like PSG.
3. Use the Business Grants Portal (BGP)
Access the BGP using your CorpPass, a corporate digital identity for online government transactions.
- Company Profile: Fill in your company profile, which will be auto-populated from ACRA’s database based on your Unique Entity Number (UEN)1.
- Submit Application: Complete the grant application form, providing all required information and supporting documents.
4. Review and Submit Application
Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejection. Once satisfied with your application, submit it through the BGP.
5. Follow Up and Track Application Status
The processing time typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application. Use the BGP to track the status of your application under the “My Grants” section.
6. Claims and Reimbursement
Ensure all project deliverables are completed within the specified qualifying period.
- Submit Claims: Log in to the BGP to file claims with supporting documents such as invoices and project reports.
- Reimbursement: Receive reimbursement via PayNow Corporate or GIRO after claims have been approved.
Best Practices for Grant Success
Each submission should clearly demonstrate how your project aligns with the grant’s objectives and how the funding will yield measurable outcomes for your business.
- Define clear and quantifiable KPIs to show the potential impact of your project.
- Present a complete execution plan that outlines timelines, responsibilities, and expected results.
- Demonstrate credibility by highlighting your team’s experience, existing traction, or collaborations with trusted partners.
- To avoid unnecessary delays, keep track of grant timelines, reporting obligations, and disbursement milestones.
Agencies favour applications that are focused and strategic, not rushed or generic. A strong application reflects a clear business direction that aligns with national priorities.
Take the Next Step
Ready to turn funding into a competitive edge? Singapore offers practical support to help businesses grow. From digital upgrades to overseas expansion and energy-saving initiatives, there’s funding available to support a wide range of business goals.
But these grants won’t be around forever. Application windows change, funding limits adjust, and competition is strong. Start early, stay informed, and prepare your applications properly.
✅ Tip: Most grant applications require a strong, well-structured business plan that clearly aligns with your funding goals. Explore our guide on how to write a business plan that meets the expectations of Singapore’s funding agencies.
