A Guide to Government Bodies and Their Grant Schemes

Singapore’s reputation as a global innovation hub is backed by a robust network of government agencies offering targeted grants and tax incentives. These programmes are designed to help businesses, from startups to large enterprises, accelerate R&D, adopt new technologies, and build future-ready capabilities.

In this guide, we explore the key government bodies present in Singapore and the innovation schemes they offer. Whether you’re looking to co-fund a digital transformation project or claim tax deductions for R&D, there’s a programme tailored to your needs.

Check out our Types of Grants In Singapore | 2025 Guide for CFOs and Founders.

Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG)

EnterpriseSG is the government agency championing enterprise development. It supports startups and SMEs in building capabilities, innovating, and expanding internationally through targeted grants and programmes.

Key Programmes:

Grant	Purpose	Funding
EDG	Business transformation	Up to 70%
CTC Grant	Worker-centric transformation	Up to 70%
T-Up	R&D capability via A*STAR secondment	Up to 70%
Startup SG Tech	Early-stage tech development	Up to S$800,000
Resource Efficiency Grant for Emissions (REG(E))	Emissions reduction through energy-efficient upgrades	Up to 70% for SMEs, capped at S$30,000 (Base Tier) or S$350,000 (Advanced Tier)

Economic Development Board (EDB)

EDB is Singapore’s lead agency for attracting investments and fostering innovation in high-value sectors. It supports companies undertaking strategic R&D and expansion projects that contribute to national economic priorities.

Key Programmes:

Grant	Purpose	Funding
Research and Innovation Scheme for Companies (RISC)	Supports companies in expanding R&D teams and executing innovation projects that develop new or improved products or processes	60% support for local manpower; 30% for foreign manpower and equipment
Refundable Investment Credit (RIC)	Encourages significant new or expanded investments in Singapore across manufacturing, services, and growth sectors	10%, 30%, or 50% refundable tax credit on qualifying expenditures

Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)

MAS is Singapore’s central bank and financial regulator. It drives innovation in the financial sector through the FSTI framework, supporting fintech, ESG, AI, and quantum technologies.

Key Programmes:

Grant	Focus	Funding
FSTI Quantum Track	Quantum tech pilots	Up to 50%
FSTI Centre of Excellence	Financial innovation hubs	Up to S$250,000
FSTI Innovation Acceleration	Nascent tech	Up to S$400,000
ESG FinTech Grant	Sustainable finance	Up to S$500,000
AIDA Grant	AI & analytics	Up to S$500,000

Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)

IMDA leads Singapore’s digital transformation agenda. It empowers businesses to adopt emerging technologies and build internal digital capabilities through strategic funding programmes.

Key Programmes:

Grant	Purpose	Funding
Digital Leaders Programme (DLP)	Supports companies in building internal digital teams and implementing impactful digital transformation projects	Up to S$200,000 over 2 years for hiring up to 4 dedicated digital roles

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)

MPA promotes innovation in the maritime sector, supporting companies in developing advanced technologies and intellectual property that enhance Singapore’s position as a global maritime hub.

Key Programme:

Grant	Purpose	Funding
MINT – Research & Product Development (MINT-RPD)	Supports maritime companies in developing technologies and IP through R&D, test-bedding, and commercialisation	Co-funding of up to 50% of qualifying project costs

Building and Construction Authority (BCA)

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) drives transformation in Singapore’s built environment sector. It supports firms in adopting advanced technologies, improving enterprise capabilities, and upskilling manpower to meet evolving industry standards.

Key Programme:

Grant	Purpose	Funding
Built Environment Technology and Capability (BETC) Grant	Supports holistic transformation in construction through tech adoption, enterprise development, and manpower upskilling	Up to 70% (SMEs), up to 50% (non-SMEs)

Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)

IRAS offers tax-based innovation support via the Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS).

The Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS) offers enhanced tax deductions of up to 400% or a cash payout of up to S$20,000 per year for qualifying innovation activities. It’s designed to support companies investing in innovation, especially those in early growth stages or not yet profitable.

How FI Group Supports Your Innovation Funding Journey

At FI Group Singapore, we go beyond identifying funding opportunities—we guide you through every stage of the grant journey. From analysing your innovation roadmap to matching the right grants, managing applications, and ensuring post-approval compliance, our structured process is designed to maximise your success.

Whether you’re applying for EnterpriseSG grants or claiming EIS tax benefits, our expert team ensures your innovation efforts are fully supported.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of businesses can apply for Singapore innovation grants?

SMEs, startups, and large enterprises across sectors can apply, depending on the grant’s scope and eligibility criteria.

Can I combine grants with tax incentives like the Enterprise Innovation Scheme?

Yes. Many companies use grants for upfront funding and EIS for tax optimisation or to receive a cash payout of up to S$100,000 annually.

How do I know which grant suits my project?

FI Group offers tailored advisory services to help match your innovation goals with the most suitable funding scheme, whether it’s a grant or a tax incentive.

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