Best Grants for Overseas Expansion in Singapore
Compare MRA, EDG Market Access, and internationalisation support
Expanding beyond Singapore is a strategic priority for many local businesses. The government offers substantial support for internationalisation, covering up to 70% of costs for overseas market entry. This guide compares the key grants and support programs for overseas expansion.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MRA | EDG Market Access |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Support | Up to 70% | Up to 50% |
| Max Amount | S$100K per market | No fixed cap |
| Market Setup | Yes | Yes |
| Trade Fairs | Yes | Yes |
| Market Research | Yes | Yes |
| Branding/Marketing | Yes | Yes |
| Overseas Hiring | Limited | Yes |
| Business Development | Yes | Yes |
Pros and Cons
Market Readiness Assistance (MRA)
- Higher funding rate (up to 70%)
- Faster approval process
- Can be used for multiple markets
- Covers third-party consultancy
- Capped at S$100K per market
- Strict eligible cost categories
- SMEs only
EDG Market Access
- No fixed funding cap
- Covers comprehensive market entry
- Can include overseas hiring
- Open to all company sizes
- Lower funding rate (50%)
- Longer approval process
- More complex application
Choosing Your Internationalisation Grant
Many businesses use MRA for initial market testing, then EDG for deeper market penetration.
→ Start with MRA
Learn more→ Consider EDG Market Access
Learn more→ MRA is usually faster
Learn more→ Combine MRA + EDG for maximum support
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, but not for the same expenses. You can use MRA for initial market testing and trade shows, then EDG for setting up local operations.
Both grants support expansion to most international markets. Focus is typically on ASEAN, China, India, and other key trade partner countries.
MRA has limited support for overseas hiring. EDG Market Access provides better coverage for overseas manpower costs as part of a comprehensive market entry plan.
MRA typically takes 4-6 weeks. EDG Market Access can take 2-3 months due to the more comprehensive assessment required.