What Kind of Government Grant Can a Biomedical Sciences Business Get in Singapore?
Singapore has emerged as a leading biomedical sciences (BMS) hub in Asia, with a vibrant ecosystem comprising pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, medical technology manufacturers, and research institutions. With strong government support, the BMS sector is primed for innovation and growth. Whether you’re running a biotech startup developing a novel therapeutic, or a medtech firm manufacturing diagnostic devices, there are numerous government grants in Singapore designed to propel your biomedical sciences business forward.
This article provides an overview of key government grants available for BMS businesses and how each can support your journey from research and development to global expansion.
1. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) is one of the most versatile grants for biomedical sciences companies. Administered by Enterprise Singapore, it supports projects under three key categories:
- Core Capabilities: Strategy, branding, and HR development
- Innovation and Productivity: Process automation, product development, and research commercialisation
- Market Access: Overseas expansion and international collaborations
Funding Support: Up to 50% of eligible project costs for SMEs
Example: A medtech firm developing a home-use diagnostic kit can use the EDG to fund product development and regulatory consulting services.
2. Startup SG Tech
The Startup SG Tech grant is designed to help early-stage deep tech companies, including biomedical and biotech startups, develop and commercialise proprietary technology.
Funding Stages:
- Proof-of-Concept (POC): Up to S$250,000
- Proof-of-Value (POV): Up to S$500,000
Eligibility:
- Registered in Singapore, less than 5 years old
- At least 30% local shareholding
- Proprietary, scalable solutions
Example: A biotech company creating a new method for rapid cancer biomarker detection may apply for the POV stage to validate the technology with clinical partners.
3. Biomedical Research Council (BMRC) Grants
Managed by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), BMRC offers various funding schemes to support biomedical R&D efforts.
Key Grants Include:
- Industry Alignment Fund (IAF): Supports collaborative industry research
- A*STAR Research Grants: Funding for cutting-edge scientific projects with commercial potential
Example: A startup collaborating with a public research institution on a novel drug delivery system may receive support through the IAF.
4. Health and Biomedical Sciences (HBMS) RIE2025 Funding
Under the Research, Innovation and Enterprise 2025 (RIE2025) plan, over S$25 billion has been committed, with a significant allocation to health and biomedical sciences.
Funding Areas:
- Precision medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Health systems and outcomes
- Digital health technologies
Example: A healthtech firm developing AI-based diagnostic software for stroke detection can benefit from this funding, particularly if it collaborates with hospitals or public institutions.
5. Medical Device Registration and Consultancy Grant (EDG-linked)
Medical device companies often face regulatory hurdles when entering global markets. Under the EDG’s Innovation & Productivity pillar, biomedical companies can receive funding for product certification and regulatory consulting.
Support Includes:
- CE Marking
- FDA approval
- ISO 13485 quality management certification
Example: A Singapore-based company creating wearable heart monitors could use this grant to fund FDA 510(k) submissions.
6. Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)
While typically associated with off-the-shelf tech tools, the PSG also supports medtech and biomedical companies adopting pre-approved digital solutions to streamline business operations.
What It Covers:
- Inventory management systems
- HR and payroll software
- Cybersecurity solutions
Funding Support: Up to 50% of eligible costs
Example: A pharmaceutical distributor may use PSG to implement a track-and-trace inventory system to comply with regulatory standards.
7. HealthTech Innovation Fund (HTIF)
Administered by Integrated Health Information Systems (IHiS), the HTIF supports co-development of digital health solutions between industry players and public healthcare institutions.
Focus Areas:
- Remote monitoring
- Telehealth
- AI in clinical workflows
Example: A company developing a remote patient monitoring system may partner with a public hospital and receive HTIF support to co-develop and test the system.
8. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant
The MRA Grant is a practical choice for biomedical firms aiming to export or expand internationally.
Covers:
- Overseas market setup
- Branding and marketing
- Participation in trade fairs and missions
Funding Support: Up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000 per new market
Example: A company that has just launched a new wound care product line can use the MRA to enter the European market through participation in medical exhibitions.
9. SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
The SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit supports transformation and workforce development in biomedical companies, especially relevant in fields requiring continuous R&D training.
Extra 90% funding (on top of existing subsidies) for training and enterprise development, capped at S$10,000.
Example: A biotech firm can use SFEC to subsidise courses in good manufacturing practices (GMP) or advanced biostatistics for their staff.
Final Thoughts: A Thriving Landscape for Biomedical Innovation
Biomedical businesses in Singapore benefit from a comprehensive suite of grants that support everything from basic research and prototyping to commercialisation and overseas expansion. Leveraging these grants not only reduces financial risk but also accelerates the time-to-market for cutting-edge biomedical solutions.
The key lies in identifying which grants align with your company’s development stage and strategic goals. Whether you’re seeking to register a new medical device or collaborate on a multi-party research project, having the right grant strategy is crucial.
Need Help Applying for Biomedical Grants? Let GrantConsultant.sg Guide You
At GrantConsultant.sg, we help biomedical companies successfully apply for government grants in Singapore. From early-stage biotech startups to established medical device manufacturers, we provide tailored consultancy to maximise your chances of approval and compliance.
Get in touch today to explore how we can support your growth through the right grant funding strategy.