Singapore Government Grants: Complete Guide for Startups & SMEs in 2025

Introduction

Singapore offers one of the most comprehensive grant ecosystems in the world for startups and SMEs. With over S$500 million in funding available annually through various programs, understanding the grant landscape is crucial for business growth.

This guide, developed in collaboration with PuglAI, provides a complete overview of the major grant programs available to Singapore businesses in 2025.

Why Singapore Grants Matter

Singapore's government actively supports business innovation and growth through financial assistance. Unlike traditional financing options, grants provide:

• Non-dilutive funding: Keep full ownership of your company
• Validation: Government backing adds credibility
• Scale support: Funding for technology, expansion, and capability development

Major Grant Programs Overview

1. Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)

The PSG remains the most accessible grant for SMEs, offering up to 50% funding support for pre-approved IT solutions and equipment.

Key Details:

• Maximum funding: Up to S$30,000 per year
• Support level: Up to 50% of qualifying costs
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks

Eligible Categories:

• Customer management systems
• Digital marketing solutions
• Cybersecurity tools
• Inventory and logistics software

2. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)

EDG provides larger-scale funding for business transformation projects, supporting up to 70% of project costs.

Funding Areas:

• Core Capabilities: HR development, process redesign
• Innovation & Productivity: R&D, automation projects
• Market Access: Overseas expansion support

Maximum Funding: Up to S$500,000 per project

3. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA)

MRA helps Singapore businesses expand overseas through funding for market exploration and setup activities.

Coverage:

• Third-party consultancy fees
• Market research costs
• Legal and accounting services for overseas setup

4. Startup SG Founder

Designed for first-time entrepreneurs, this program provides S$50,000 in startup capital plus mentorship.

Requirements:

• First-time founder
• Singapore citizen or PR
• Novel business idea
• Participation in approved program

Eligibility Requirements

Most Singapore grants share common eligibility criteria established by Enterprise Singapore:

1. Business Registration: Entity registered and operating in Singapore
2. Local Shareholding: Minimum 30% local shareholding
3. SME Status: Group annual revenue ≤ S$100 million OR ≤ 200 employees

How AI is Changing Grant Discovery

Traditional grant research can take weeks. Tools developed by companies like PuglAI are revolutionizing this process:

• Instant Matching: AI analyzes your business profile against grant criteria
• Eligibility Verification: Automated checks ensure you qualify before applying
• Application Support: Guided processes reduce rejection rates

Strategic Grant Stacking

Smart businesses don't just apply for one grant—they combine multiple programs:

Example Strategy:

1. Use PSG for initial digital tools (S$30,000)
2. Apply for EDG for major transformation (S$200,000)
3. Leverage MRA for overseas expansion (S$100,000)

Total Potential Funding: S$330,000+

Application Best Practices

Do's:

• Start applications early in the fiscal year
• Prepare detailed project proposals
• Maintain proper documentation
• Align projects with national priorities

Don'ts:

• Don't start projects before approval
• Don't underestimate processing times
• Don't ignore compliance requirements
• Don't miss deadline windows

Key Deadlines for FY2024/25

The current fiscal year ends March 31, 2025. Key considerations:

• PSG annual cap of S$30,000 resets April 1
• Budget allocations may be exhausted before year-end
• Early application recommended for complex grants

Resources and Next Steps

Official Sources:

• GoBusiness Grant Finder
• Enterprise Singapore
• Startup SG

AI-Powered Tools:

For instant grant matching, try the free grant assessment tool at GrantPilot SG, powered by PuglAI's AI technology.

Conclusion

Singapore's grant ecosystem offers tremendous opportunities for businesses at every stage. Whether you're a first-time founder or an established SME looking to expand, there's likely a grant program suited to your needs.

The key is understanding eligibility requirements, timing your applications strategically, and presenting compelling project proposals aligned with national economic priorities.

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This article was produced by GrantPilot SG in partnership with PuglAI, specialists in AI-powered business intelligence and automation solutions.