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Enterprise Development Grant (EDG): Eligibility, Funding & How to Apply
Learn how the Enterprise Development Grant works for Singapore SMEs, including eligible project types, support levels, documents, claims and common mistakes.
A business may outgrow its current systems long before it is ready to hire a full transformation team. The Enterprise Development Grant, or EDG, is meant for more structured projects where an SME is trying to build capability, improve productivity, innovate, or enter markets with a proper project scope. It is not a shortcut for ordinary operating expenses. For business owners, the key is to show why the project matters, what will change, and how the company will measure the result.
What EDG supports
EDG funds qualifying project costs such as third-party consultancy fees, software and equipment, and internal manpower cost. EnterpriseSG states that local SMEs can receive up to 50% support for EDG, with separate treatment for certain sustainability-related projects.
EDG project area | What it usually covers | Business owner check |
|---|---|---|
Core capabilities | Strategy, financial management, service excellence, human capital, and business model work | Does the project build a capability the company lacks? |
Innovation and productivity | Process redesign, automation, product development, and workflow improvement | Can the outcome be measured beyond buying equipment? |
Market access | Overseas expansion and market-entry capability projects | Is there a clear target market and commercial plan? |
Who should consider EDG
- SMEs with a defined transformation or capability-building project.
- Companies that need consultant, vendor, software, equipment, or internal manpower support for a structured project.
- Businesses that can explain project milestones, expected outcomes, and why the work is not routine operations.
- Owners prepared to wait for approval before committing to the project.
Documents to prepare
| Document | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Project proposal | Explains scope, milestones, deliverables, and business impact. |
| Quotation or consultant proposal | Supports the cost and scope in the grant application. |
| Financial statements or management accounts | Helps assess business standing and capacity. |
| ACRA profile | Confirms company registration and ownership details. |
| Claim evidence plan | Prepares invoices, payment proof, reports, and deliverables before work starts. |
Common EDG mistakes
- Starting work, signing, or paying before approval when retrospective applications are not allowed.
- Submitting a vendor quote without explaining the business problem.
- Writing a scope that sounds like normal operating expense.
- Using broad outcomes such as ‘increase productivity’ without measurable deliverables.
- Forgetting that claims need evidence after approval, not just a good application.
Official sources to check
This guide was reviewed on 28 June 2026. Check the official pages before applying because support levels, eligibility, claim rules, and deadlines can change: EnterpriseSG PSG, EnterpriseSG EDG, EnterpriseSG MRA, Business Grants Portal, Startup SG Founder, and SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much EDG support can Singapore SMEs receive?
EnterpriseSG states that local SMEs can receive up to 50% support for qualifying EDG costs, with separate terms for certain sustainability-related projects.
Can EDG pay for software?
EDG may support qualifying software and equipment when they are part of an approved structured project, not just a routine purchase.
Should a company start the EDG project before approval?
No. SMEs should check official terms and avoid signing, paying, or starting work before approval unless the scheme clearly allows it.
Is EDG the same as PSG?
No. PSG is usually for pre-approved productivity solutions, while EDG is for broader capability, innovation, productivity, or market access projects.
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