What Kind of Government Grant Can a Manufacturing Business Get in Singapore?
Singapore’s manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of the national economy, contributing nearly 20% of GDP and encompassing a diverse range of industries, including precision engineering, electronics, chemicals, biomedical, and advanced manufacturing. As global supply chains evolve and technology advances, manufacturers in Singapore are encouraged to adopt automation, embrace digitalisation, and pursue sustainability. To support this transformation, the Singapore government offers numerous grants tailored for manufacturers at various growth stages.
This article outlines the key government grants available to manufacturing businesses in Singapore.
1. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) supports manufacturers looking to enhance capabilities, improve productivity, and expand internationally.
Covers Projects In:
- Core Capabilities: Business strategy development, process redesign, financial management
- Innovation and Productivity: Robotics integration, smart factory implementation, IoT systems
- Market Access: Overseas partnerships, international certifications, trade show participation
Funding Support: Up to 50% of qualifying costs for SMEs
Example: A precision engineering firm may use EDG to implement a factory automation system that improves production accuracy and reduces human error.
2. Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)
The PSG supports adoption of pre-approved IT solutions and equipment to enhance productivity.
Relevant Solutions for Manufacturers Include:
- Inventory and warehouse management systems
- Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
- Data analytics platforms
- Cybersecurity and HR software
Funding Support: Up to 50% of qualifying costs
Example: A food manufacturer can adopt a PSG-supported MES to improve batch tracking and compliance.
3. Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS)
The ADS scheme helps manufacturers scale up digital transformation using integrated and complex technology solutions.
Supports Implementation of:
- AI for predictive maintenance
- Digital twins for production processes
- Blockchain for supply chain transparency
Funding Support: Up to 80% of qualifying project costs
Example: An electronics manufacturer might use ADS to implement digital twins of its production lines for better efficiency and output forecasting.
4. SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
The SFEC encourages businesses to invest in both workforce upskilling and business transformation.
Provides: Additional 90% support on top of existing subsidies, capped at S$10,000
Example: A manufacturing firm may use SFEC to subsidise training in Lean Six Sigma or Industry 4.0-related technologies like additive manufacturing.
5. Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG)
As part of Singapore’s push towards sustainability, the EEG supports SMEs in the manufacturing sector to adopt energy-efficient equipment.
Supports:
- Air compressors
- Refrigeration systems
- LED lighting
- High-efficiency motors and boilers
Funding Support: Up to 70% of qualifying costs for pre-approved energy-efficient equipment
Example: A chemical manufacturer could apply for EEG to upgrade to energy-saving chillers, reducing electricity usage and operating costs.
6. Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Scheme (MEES)
Administered by EMA and EDB, MEES promotes energy efficiency projects by larger energy-consuming manufacturers.
Supports Projects Involving:
- Installation of energy-efficient systems
- Engineering design for energy optimisation
- Monitoring and verification systems
Example: A semiconductor firm can apply for MEES to optimise its cleanroom energy usage.
7. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant
The MRA Grant supports manufacturers aiming to expand overseas.
Covers:
- Overseas business development and partner search
- International marketing and branding
- Participation in international trade fairs
Funding Support: Up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000 per new market
Example: A precision tool manufacturer may use MRA to enter the European market through business missions and local distributor outreach.
8. Innovation and Capability Voucher (ICV) – now integrated into EDG
While the ICV has been phased out and integrated into EDG, manufacturers looking for quick upgrades can still benefit from EDG’s streamlined support for productivity enhancements and innovation projects.
Example: A plastic moulding company can apply for EDG to optimise tooling design and reduce material waste.
9. Startup SG Tech
Startup SG Tech supports deep tech companies, including those in advanced manufacturing, with early-stage product development.
Funding Tiers:
- Proof-of-Concept (POC): Up to S$250,000
- Proof-of-Value (POV): Up to S$500,000
Eligibility: Proprietary innovation, scalable solution, Singapore-based startup
Example: A 3D printing startup creating new composite materials for industrial use may apply for funding to prototype and test its innovations.
Final Thoughts: Manufacturing the Future with Government Support
Singapore’s manufacturing industry is transforming rapidly with smart technologies and green practices at its core. From robotics and automation to energy efficiency and internationalisation, government grants provide the funding backbone for innovation.
Success lies in aligning your grant application with sector trends and business objectives, supported by robust documentation and project planning.
Need Help Applying for Manufacturing Grants? Speak to GrantConsultant.sg
At GrantConsultant.sg, we assist manufacturing companies in Singapore to successfully apply for the right government grants. Whether you’re automating your production line, expanding into overseas markets, or exploring sustainability initiatives, we can help you from start to finish.
Contact us today to explore the most relevant grants for your manufacturing journey.