Best Grants for Startups in Singapore (2025)
Complete guide to funding options for early-stage companies
Singapore offers some of the most comprehensive startup support programs in Asia. From founding grants to growth capital, there are multiple funding pathways for entrepreneurs at every stage. This guide compares the key grants and funding options available to startups in Singapore.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Startup SG Founder | SEEDS Capital | EDG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funding Amount | S$50K (+ S$20K co-match) | Up to S$2M | Up to 50% of costs |
| Stage | Pre-revenue | Early revenue | Growth stage |
| Equity Required | No | Yes | No |
| First-time Founder | Yes | Preferred | No requirement |
| Mentorship Included | Yes | Yes | No |
| Tech Focus Required | Innovation focus | Tech/deep-tech | All sectors |
| Application Complexity | Medium | High | High |
Pros and Cons
Startup SG Founder
- Non-dilutive funding (no equity given up)
- Includes mentorship from accredited partners
- Designed for first-time founders
- Helps validate business concept
- Access to startup ecosystem
- Relatively small amount (S$50K)
- Requires S$20K co-match from founder
- Only for very early stage
- Must be committed full-time
- Cannot have other full-time employment
SEEDS Capital
- Larger funding (up to S$2M)
- Comes with investor validation
- Access to investor networks
- Follow-on funding possible
- Strong deep-tech focus
- Equity investment (dilution)
- Highly competitive
- Longer due diligence process
- Need existing traction
- Tech/deep-tech focus required
Which Funding is Right for Your Startup?
The best funding option depends on your stage, traction, and willingness to give up equity.
→ Apply for Startup SG Founder
Learn more→ Consider SEEDS Capital or angel investors
Learn more→ Apply for EDG
Learn more→ Start with PSG for immediate needs
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you meet the SME criteria (≤200 employees, ≤S$100M revenue, 30% local shareholding). Many startups use PSG for initial digitization needs.
Strong applications show innovative ideas, clear market opportunity, capable founding team, and realistic go-to-market plans. Mentorship partner endorsement is crucial.
SEEDS Capital focuses on technology and deep-tech startups, including AI, biotech, cleantech, and advanced manufacturing. Traditional businesses may not qualify.
Yes, but not for the same expenses. Many startups combine Startup SG Founder for initial validation, then PSG for tools, and eventually EDG for growth.