What Kind of Government Grant Can an ICT Business Get in Singapore?
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is a vital engine of growth for Singapore’s digital economy. It encompasses businesses in software development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, data analytics, and more. Given the government’s strong commitment to innovation and digitalisation, ICT businesses in Singapore have access to a robust suite of grants designed to support every stage of business growth—from ideation and development to global expansion.
This article explores the key government grants ICT businesses in Singapore can tap on to accelerate their growth and innovation.
1. Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)
The Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) provides funding support for the adoption of pre-approved IT solutions and equipment. For ICT companies, this is especially useful for improving internal processes or helping clients adopt tech solutions.
What It Covers:
- Project management software
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
- Accounting software
- Cybersecurity tools
Funding Support: Up to 50% of qualifying costs
Example: A software development agency might use PSG to implement project tracking tools and cybersecurity enhancements to manage client data securely.
2. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) helps ICT businesses upgrade, innovate, and venture overseas. It supports projects under three main pillars:
- Core Capabilities – e.g., strategy development, financial management
- Innovation and Productivity – e.g., automating software testing or implementing DevOps pipelines
- Market Access – e.g., entering new markets or forming overseas partnerships
Funding Support: Up to 50% for SMEs
Example: A company building AI tools might apply for EDG support to streamline their R&D process or set up a business development office in Southeast Asia.
3. Startup SG Tech
The Startup SG Tech grant supports early-stage tech startups developing innovative and proprietary technology solutions. For ICT businesses, this can be a major source of funding to take an idea from concept to commercialisation.
Two Stages of Support:
- Proof-of-Concept (POC): Up to S$250,000
- Proof-of-Value (POV): Up to S$500,000
Eligibility: Must be a Singapore-registered company, less than 5 years old, and at least 30% local shareholding
Example: An AI startup working on a deep learning algorithm for sentiment analysis might receive funding to prototype and test their solution.
4. Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS)
The Advanced Digital Solutions program supports sector-specific digital solutions that improve business functions on a larger scale. While not limited to ICT businesses, ICT firms may benefit by either adopting or providing such solutions.
Eligible Projects Include:
- AI and machine learning
- Advanced analytics
- Cybersecurity infrastructure
- Cloud-based enterprise systems
Funding Support: Co-funding up to 80% of qualifying costs
Example: A cloud solutions company offering remote work platforms might co-develop a solution under ADS to help SMEs operate more securely and efficiently.
5. Digital Leaders Programme (DLP)
Designed for high-growth companies looking to deepen digital capabilities, the Digital Leaders Programme helps ICT businesses strengthen their internal tech teams and digital strategies.
What It Supports:
- Digital transformation roadmap development
- Recruitment of digital talent
- Organisational change management
Eligibility: Growth-stage companies with strong digital ambitions
Example: A mid-sized cybersecurity firm could leverage DLP to develop a three-year innovation roadmap and hire a Chief Digital Officer to drive it.
6. SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
The SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit encourages businesses to invest in both transformation and training. This is crucial in ICT, where rapid technological changes demand continuous upskilling.
Support Provided: Extra 90% funding for approved courses and enterprise development activities, capped at S$10,000
Example: An ICT company can use SFEC to subsidise training for staff in new programming languages, cloud certifications, or cybersecurity best practices.
7. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant
The Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) grant is ideal for ICT companies looking to expand into overseas markets.
Support Areas:
- Overseas market promotion (e.g., digital marketing)
- Business development
- Market set-up (e.g., incorporation and licensing overseas)
Funding Support: Up to 50% of eligible costs, capped at S$100,000 per new market
Example: A Singapore-based SaaS firm entering Australia might apply for MRA to cover expenses for branding and onboarding local partners.
8. GoCloud Programme
Managed by IMDA, the GoCloud programme helps software development companies redesign legacy applications into modern cloud-native architecture.
Benefits Include:
- Technical consultancy
- Cloud architecture support
- DevOps implementation guidance
Example: A software firm with a legacy ERP system might use GoCloud to modernise it into a scalable cloud-native product.
Final Thoughts: Leveraging Grants for Tech Acceleration
With the digital economy evolving rapidly, ICT businesses must stay ahead of the curve by constantly innovating, scaling, and upgrading capabilities. Singapore’s government has laid the groundwork for this with a wide range of grants, making it easier for businesses to pursue transformation confidently.
However, the application process, supporting documents, and alignment with grant objectives can be complex. Identifying the right grant that aligns with your growth strategy and ensuring a strong application are key to securing funding.
Need Help Applying for ICT Grants? Speak to GrantConsultant.sg
At GrantConsultant.sg, we specialise in helping ICT businesses in Singapore successfully navigate the government grant landscape. Whether you’re a startup, an SME, or an expanding enterprise, our consultants can guide you through the entire grant application process—from strategy to submission.
Reach out to us today and take the next step in growing your tech business with the right government support.