Business Grants 101 for Small Businesses in Singapore: Types of Grants, as of September 2026

Are you tired of slogging through the grant application process? This guide explains the basics of business grants in Singapore.

Update, as of September 2026: EDG, MRA and PSG ceased on 29 September 2026. From 30 September onwards, businesses apply for business grant support under the EDGE Grant. The EDGE Grant offers up to 70% for SMEs and up to 50% for non-SMEs. Support levels differ by activity. It gives up to S$100,000 in total grant support per year. Source: the official EDGE Grant page.

A quick word from us, the team at Admiral Systems: we wrote this article for 3 types of readers.

• The EntrepreneurGoals: To start a new business and understand which grants may apply to it.
• Pain Points: Uncertainty about the grant application process, eligibility criteria, and available grants for startups.
• Your burning questions:How to get a grant to start a business
• How to apply for a grant to start a business
• How to get a startup business grant
• How to apply for a startup business grant
• The Small Business OwnerGoals: To grow and expand their existing small business using grants.
• Pain Points: Difficulty in finding and applying for relevant grants, understanding the grant application process, and meeting eligibility criteria.
• Your Burning Questions:How to get a small business grant
• How to apply for a small business grant
• How to qualify for a small business grant
• How to get a grant for a small business
• Business Development Professional (Most ideal)
  You could be leading a growth, marketing, sales or product team. It will all make sense once you've read through this.Goals: To stay updated on the latest grant opportunities and how the application process works.
• Pain Points: Staying informed about new grant programmes, understanding the grant writing process, and preparing strong grant applications.
• Your Burning questions:How to write a grant proposal for a small business
• How to write a business proposal for a grant
• How do I apply for a business grant?
• How to apply for a government grant to start a business

We'll do our best to cover them all. If you can't find an answer here, look through our guided resources.

What Are Business Grants?

So, what exactly are business grants? Simply put, they're funds provided by government agencies, private organisations, or non-profit entities to support businesses in various stages of development. Unlike loans, grants don't need to be repaid, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to grow their ventures.

Business grants are typically provided by government agencies (for example, Enterprise Singapore), private organisations, or non-profit entities. These funds can support a wide range of business activities, from research and development to market entry and export promotion.
For example, a startup in the technology sector might receive a grant to develop a new product or service. This grant would provide the necessary funding to cover the costs of research and development, allowing the startup to bring its innovative idea to market.

Types of Business Grants

Now that we've got the basics covered, let's look at the grants. This article focuses on government grants for businesses operating in Singapore.

Here is an overview of government grants for businesses operating in Singapore.

Government Grants

Government grants are provided by government agencies to support businesses in specific industries or activities. These grants often have strict eligibility criteria and application processes.

Two examples of government grants that ceased on 29 September 2026:

1. Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)

The EDG supported businesses in areas including strategic brand and marketing development. As of September 2026: EDG ceased on 29 September 2026. From 30 September onwards, businesses apply under the EDGE Grant. Source: the official EDGE Grant page.

2. Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant

The MRA grant supported businesses in their overseas expansion efforts. As of September 2026: MRA ceased on 29 September 2026. From 30 September onwards, businesses apply under the EDGE Grant. Source: the official EDGE Grant page.

These were examples of government grants for businesses in Singapore. For more, see our grants library.

Who Can Apply for Business Grants?

Small businesses, entrepreneurs and established companies can apply for grants when they meet each grant's eligibility criteria. Check the criteria on the official page of each grant before you apply.

Benefits of Business Grants

Grants provide financial support without requiring equity loss. They can fund research and development, market entry and export promotion.

Common Misconceptions About Business Grants

Time to bust some myths. Grants aren't 'free money': they require effort to secure, and the application process is competitive. Grants also exist for many industries, not only technology, so check the criteria of each one.

How to Find the Right Business Grant

Start with official government websites such as Enterprise Singapore, then check grant directories and industry associations. Industry connections can also help you find grants specific to your sector.

Application Process Overview

Once you have found a suitable grant, prepare a strong business plan and proposal, including financial projections and market analysis. Show how your project aligns with the grant provider's goals and objectives.

Tips for a Strong Grant Application

Here are some tips for a strong application:

• Tailor your proposal to the grant provider's goals.
• Highlight the impact and potential of your business.
• Keep your application concise and clear.

To apply, use the official channels listed on each grant's Enterprise Singapore page. From 30 September 2026, start with the EDGE Grant page.