Singapore is more than just a gateway to Asia — it’s a launchpad for international growth. With its pro-business policies, robust financial system, and strategic location, the city-state consistently attracts global firms looking to establish a regional HQ.
What often surprises newcomers is the depth of government support available. Through a wide range of grants and incentive programmes, businesses can reduce costs, build local capabilities, and accelerate their expansion journey.
Singapore’s government doesn’t just welcome international companies — it actively partners with them. These grants provide tangible financial support that reduces entry risk and accelerates scale.
Below are the key grants every international business should know when setting up in Singapore.
Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant
- Purpose – Helps companies expand into new overseas markets.
- Funding – Up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000 per market.
- Covers – Market promotion (up to S$20k), business development (up to S$50k), and market set-up (up to S$30k).
- Eligibility – Singapore-incorporated, with ≥ 30% local equity and ≤ S$100m turnover or ≤ 200 employees.
- Pro Tip – Only one activity per market per application. Apply before your project starts — at least 6 months ahead.
Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
- Purpose – Supports capability building, productivity enhancements, and internationalisation.
- Funding – Up to 50–80% of qualifying project costs.
- Eligibility – Singapore-registered with ≥ 30% local shareholding. Projects must show clear business outcomes.
- Application Note – Projects typically run 12–18 months. A detailed proposal with measurable outcomes is key.
Tech@SG Programme (By EDB & Enterprise SG)
- Purpose – Designed for high-growth global tech companies to set up core teams in Singapore.
- Support -Eases the process of obtaining Employment Pass approvals for critical foreign talent.
- Eligibility – Selective — targeted at companies with high growth potential.
Tip: Applications go through EDB. Best suited for firms scaling regional HQ teams quickly.
Business Adaptation Grant (Launching October 2025)
- Purpose – A new initiative to help businesses tackle rising costs and global trade challenges.
- Support – Details will be announced closer to launch. Expected to run for two years.
- Next Step – Keep watch on Enterprise Singapore’s updates — early movers tend to benefit most.
Startup SG Programmes
- Startup SG Tech – Funding of S$400k–S$800k for the commercialisation of innovative tech (Proof of Concept / Proof of Value stages). Requires matching capital.
- Startup SG Founder – Provides S$20k–S$50k plus mentorship for first-time entrepreneurs launching innovative startups.
Strategic Takeaways for International Businesses
- Structure Matters – Most grants require ≥ 30% local equity. Plan your corporate setup accordingly. This requirement may mean finding a Singapore partner.
- Think In Phases – Sequence your support — build teams (Tech@SG), upgrade capabilities (EDG), then expand to new markets (MRA).
- Capital Matching – Be prepared for matching funds when applying for innovation-heavy grants like Startup SG Tech.
- Don’t Wait – Applications must be submitted before projects start. Timing is critical.
- Stay Ahead Of New Schemes – The Business Adaptation Grant could be pivotal for international firms managing costs and supply chains from late 2025.
