It’s official. The runway for deep tech founders in Singapore just got significantly longer.
For years, the Startup SG Tech grant was capped at S250,000forProof−of−Concept(POC)andS500,000 for Proof-of-Value (POV). While generous, many deep tech founders found these amounts barely covered the cost of specialized equipment and talent in an inflation-heavy market.
The caps have now been raised.
We have verified across multiple new 2025 application guidelines that the funding limits have increased by 60%:
Proof-of-Concept (POC): Now up to **S400,000∗∗(previouslyS250,000)
Proof-of-Value (POV): Now up to **S800,000∗∗(previouslyS500,000)
What This Means for Founders
This isn’t just an “inflation adjustment.” It is a strategic signal that Enterprise Singapore wants to back higher-risk, higher-CAPEX technologies.
The “Valley of Death” Bridge: The jump to S800kforPOVismassive.ThatadditionalS300k is effectively a pre-seed round without the dilution. It allows you to build a robust pilot, secure your first commercial trial, and walk into a Series A investor meeting with real data, not just a pitch deck.
Higher Barriers to Entry: With higher amounts comes higher scrutiny. We expect the technical evaluation panel (TEP) to be even more rigorous on the “proprietary” aspect of the tech. If you are building a wrapper around ChatGPT, you likely won’t qualify. This money is for hard tech.
The Fine Print (Read This)
The grant remains a competitive, milestone-based scheme. It is not an entitlement.
Equity Component: Remember that for Startup SG Tech, the government (or its nominee) typically reserves the right to exercise a share subscription of roughly 50% of the grant value during your next equity round.
Capital Matching: You still need to show “skin in the game.”
POC: Requires ~10% paid-up capital.
POV: Requires ~20% paid-up capital.
Example: To unlock the full S800kPOVgrant,youlikelyneedtoshowS160k in paid-up capital on your ACRA BizFile.
DeepTechSG Verdict
This is the best non-dilutive deal in Southeast Asia right now. If you have a patentable technology and haven’t applied yet, update your deck and move fast.
If you walk into a networking event at Block 71, you will hear two conflicting narratives.
Narrative A (The Local View): “The government gives all the special passes and easy landings to foreign talent. We are second-class citizens in our own startup ecosystem.”
Narrative B (The Foreign View): “It is impossible to get a single cent of grant money unless I give away 30% of my company to a Singaporean paper co-founder.”
So, who is right?
We dug into the grant criteria, the VC data, and the university spin-off rules for 2025. The answer is nuanced, but the financial reality is clear: Nationality is an asset class.
1. The “Free Money” Moat: The 30% Rule
When it comes to non-dilutive grants (free money from the government), Singaporeans have a massive, undeniable advantage.
Almost every major grant scheme under Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG)—including the Startup SG Founder grant (S$50k) and the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)—has a “Golden Rule”: 30% Local Shareholding.
The Rule: To qualify, your company must have at least 30% of its ordinary shares held by Singapore Citizens (SC) or Permanent Residents (PR).
The Implication: If you are a foreign founder (on an EP or EntrePass) with 100% ownership, you are effectively locked out of the grant ecosystem. You cannot access the productivity grants (PSG) or the market expansion grants (MRA) that your local competitors use to subsidize their burn rate.
DeepTechSG Verdict: For grants, the playing field is not level. It is structurally tilted to favor locals. If you are a foreign founder, you either bootstrap, raise VC money immediately, or find a Singaporean co-founder to hold that 30% stake.
2. The University “Backdoor”: NUS & NTU
Interestingly, the walls are lower if you come from the “Ivory Tower.” University spin-off programs like NUS GRIP (Graduate Research Innovation Programme) or NTUitive are surprisingly meritocratic—but with strings attached.
The Loophole: These programs generally accept teams based on the technology, not just the passport. A foreign PhD student or researcher can be the technical lead.
The Catch: To actually receive the investment (often S$100k from the university), you must incorporate a Singapore Private Limited company. While the university investment is equity-based (not a grant), accessing follow-on government grants (like the Central Gap Fund) often forces the spin-off to appoint a Singaporean commercial lead or CEO to meet the eligibility criteria.
3. The VC Landscape: Where Meritocracy Reigns
Once you leave the world of government grants and enter the world of Venture Capital, the “Pink IC” premium evaporates.
Top-tier VCs—Sequoia, Lightspeed, Jungle Ventures—do not care about your passport. They care about your Total Addressable Market (TAM).
The Data: In 2024, despite the “Funding Winter,” a significant portion of Series A+ funding went to companies with diverse, often foreign, founding teams.
The “Global Founder” Bias: In fact, some VCs privately admit a bias towards foreign founders who have relocated to Singapore, viewing the relocation as a signal of high conviction and “hunger.”
4. The “Foreigner’s Tax”: Visa Friction
While VCs might be colorblind, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is not. Foreign founders face a “time tax” that locals do not: The Visa.
EntrePass: This is the specific visa for foreign entrepreneurs. It requires you to be venture-backed or own IP. It is not easy to get.
ONE Pass / Tech.Pass: These are for high-earners (S$20k+/month) or established tech leaders.
The Friction: We have seen foreign founders lose 3-6 months of runway simply waiting for visa approvals before they can legally draw a salary or sign contracts. Singaporean founders can start executing on Day 1.
5. Investment Numbers: The “Local Core” Mandate
There is one specific type of VC that does care about nationality: Government-linked VCs (e.g., SEEDS Capital, EDBI).
The Mandate: While they invest in foreign startups, they often require the company to build a “strategic core” in Singapore. This doesn’t explicitly mean the founder must be Singaporean, but the company must create high-value jobs for Singaporeans.
The Stat: In 2025, SG Growth Capital (the new EDBI + SEEDS entity) has a clear mandate to “anchor” capabilities here. A foreign founder who promises to hire 50 local engineers will get the funding over a Singaporean founder who plans to outsource everything to Vietnam.
The Bottom Line
If you are Singaporean: You have a S50k−S500k head start in grants. Use it. It is your unfair advantage.
If you are Foreign: Ignore the grants. They are a distraction. Focus entirely on customer revenue and VC equity. If you try to engineer a “fake co-founder” situation just to get a $30k grant, you will likely ruin your cap table for very little upside.
Here is the deeply researched analysis on the “Pink IC” premium. I have removed all inline links and consolidated every resource at the bottom of the article.
Title: The “Pink IC” Premium: Do Singaporean Founders Actually Get More Funding?
Date: 13 December 2025 Category: Policy & Funding Analysis
If you walk into a networking event at Block 71, you will hear two conflicting narratives.
Narrative A (The Local View): “The government gives all the special passes and easy landings to foreign talent. We are second-class citizens in our own startup ecosystem.”
Narrative B (The Foreign View): “It is impossible to get a single cent of grant money unless I give away 30% of my company to a Singaporean paper co-founder.”
So, who is right?
We dug into the grant criteria, the VC data, and the university spin-off rules for 2025. The answer is nuanced, but the financial reality is clear: Nationality is an asset class.
1. The “Free Money” Moat: The 30% Rule
When it comes to non-dilutive grants (free money from the government), Singaporeans have a massive, undeniable advantage.
Almost every major grant scheme under Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG)—including the Startup SG Founder grant (S$50k) and the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)—has a “Golden Rule”: 30% Local Shareholding.
The Rule: To qualify, your company must have at least 30% of its ordinary shares held by Singapore Citizens (SC) or Permanent Residents (PR).
The Implication: If you are a foreign founder (on an EP or EntrePass) with 100% ownership, you are effectively locked out of the grant ecosystem. You cannot access the productivity grants (PSG) or the market expansion grants (MRA) that your local competitors use to subsidize their burn rate.
DeepTechSG Verdict: For grants, the playing field is not level. It is structurally tilted to favor locals. If you are a foreign founder, you either bootstrap, raise VC money immediately, or find a Singaporean co-founder to hold that 30% stake.
2. The University “Backdoor”: NUS & NTU
Interestingly, the walls are lower if you come from the “Ivory Tower.” University spin-off programs like NUS GRIP (Graduate Research Innovation Programme) or NTUitive are surprisingly meritocratic—but with strings attached.
The Loophole: These programs generally accept teams based on the technology, not just the passport. A foreign PhD student or researcher can be the technical lead.
The Catch: To actually receive the investment (often S$100k from the university), you must incorporate a Singapore Private Limited company. While the university investment is equity-based (not a grant), accessing follow-on government grants (like the Central Gap Fund) often forces the spin-off to appoint a Singaporean commercial lead or CEO to meet the eligibility criteria.
3. The VC Landscape: Where Meritocracy Reigns
Once you leave the world of government grants and enter the world of Venture Capital, the “Pink IC” premium evaporates.
Top-tier VCs—Sequoia, Lightspeed, Jungle Ventures—do not care about your passport. They care about your Total Addressable Market (TAM).
The Data: In 2024, despite the “Funding Winter,” a significant portion of Series A+ funding went to companies with diverse, often foreign, founding teams.
The “Global Founder” Bias: In fact, some VCs privately admit a bias towards foreign founders who have relocated to Singapore, viewing the relocation as a signal of high conviction and “hunger.”
4. The “Foreigner’s Tax”: Visa Friction
While VCs might be colorblind, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is not. Foreign founders face a “time tax” that locals do not: The Visa.
EntrePass: This is the specific visa for foreign entrepreneurs. It requires you to be venture-backed or own IP. It is not easy to get.
ONE Pass / Tech.Pass: These are for high-earners (S$20k+/month) or established tech leaders.
The Friction: We have seen foreign founders lose 3-6 months of runway simply waiting for visa approvals before they can legally draw a salary or sign contracts. Singaporean founders can start executing on Day 1.
5. Investment Numbers: The “Local Core” Mandate
There is one specific type of VC that does care about nationality: Government-linked VCs (e.g., SEEDS Capital, EDBI).
The Mandate: While they invest in foreign startups, they often require the company to build a “strategic core” in Singapore. This doesn’t explicitly mean the founder must be Singaporean, but the company must create high-value jobs for Singaporeans.
The Stat: In 2025, SG Growth Capital (the new EDBI + SEEDS entity) has a clear mandate to “anchor” capabilities here. A foreign founder who promises to hire 50 local engineers will get the funding over a Singaporean founder who plans to outsource everything to Vietnam.
The Bottom Line
If you are Singaporean: You have a S50k−S500k head start in grants. Use it. It is your unfair advantage.
If you are Foreign: Ignore the grants. They are a distraction. Focus entirely on customer revenue and VC equity. If you try to engineer a “fake co-founder” situation just to get a $30k grant, you will likely ruin your cap table for very little upside.
If you have tried to raise a Seed or Series A round in the last 6 months, you have felt it. The emails go unanswered. The due diligence drags on for months. The valuations are… humbling.
Everyone calls it the “Funding Winter.” But that implies it’s just a season that will pass, and soon the warm sun of “growth-at-all-costs” capital will return.
Newsflash: It won’t.
We investigated the definitive numbers for 2024 and 2025, and the data tells a different story. We aren’t in a winter; we are in a permanent climate shift. For Singapore’s founders, understanding this distinction is the difference between survival and extinction.
The Ugly Numbers
Let’s look at the cold, hard stats first. The drop isn’t a dip; it’s a cliff.
The Big Drop: Singapore’s overall tech funding crashed by 56% in 2024, falling to just $2.1 billion. To put that in perspective, that is a massive slide from $4.8 billion in 2023 and $8.1 billion in 2022.
Fintech Freeze: Southeast Asia’s darling sector, Fintech, has been hit the hardest. Funding for the sector has dropped to its lowest levels since 2016. The days of raising millions on a pitch deck and a generic “buy now, pay later” thesis are effectively over.
Late-Stage Drought: The pain is most acute at the top. Late-stage investments plummeted by nearly 75%. The “mega-rounds” that used to make headlines every week have all but vanished.
The “K-Shaped” Reality
However, if you look closer, the “Winter” isn’t freezing everyone equally. The market has bifurcated into a brutal K-shaped recovery.
Who is Freezing (The Bottom Leg of the K):
Consumer Apps: E-commerce, food delivery, and “Uber for X” models with negative unit economics.
Me-Too Fintech: The 50th digital wallet or payment gateway.
SaaS without AI: Generic B2B software that doesn’t leverage proprietary intelligence.
Who is Heating Up (The Top Leg of the K): While general tech funding slumped, Deep Tech is proving to be the exception.
Deal Volume is UP: While the dollar amount dipped slightly, the number of deals for early-stage emerging tech startups actually increased in 2024 (rising from 49 to 56 deals). This means VCs are still writing checks—they are just writing them for harder, more defensible problems.
Strategic Sectors:Advanced Manufacturing and Sustainability are leading the resurgence. These sectors are seeing renewed interest because they align with global demands for supply chain resilience and decarbonization.
Government “Dry Powder”: The Singapore government isn’t sitting on the sidelines. They recently injected an additional S$440 million into the Startup SG Equity scheme specifically to attract more global VC investment into deep tech.
The Rise of “SG Growth Capital”
One of the most significant shifts for 2025 is the consolidation of government funding power. The merger of EDBI and SEEDS Capital into the new SG Growth Capital entity is a game-changer.
This signals a streamlined approach to backing high-potential startups. It effectively creates a massive “sovereign safety net” for companies building critical capabilities—semiconductors, biotech, and clean energy—that commercial VCs might deem too risky in this climate.
How to Survive the Ice Age
Forget “Growth,” Worship “Gross Margin”: In 2021, you were valued on GMV (Gross Merchandise Value). In 2025, you are valued on Gross Profit. If your unit economics don’t work today, you won’t get a Series A.
Hunt for “Sovereign Money”: Don’t just pitch VCs. Pitch the national interest. Does your startup help Singapore secure its food, water, or energy? If yes, target SG Growth Capital.
Get Technical: The data shows that “Emerging Tech” is resilient while “General Tech” is collapsing. If your “AI Startup” is just a wrapper around OpenAI’s API, you are vulnerable. Build proprietary IP that justifies a valuation premium.
The Verdict
The “Funding Winter” is really just a return to sanity. The tourists have left the building. What remains are the serious builders and the serious investors.
If you are building something real, there has never been a better time to be in Singapore. The check sizes might be smaller, and the diligence harder, but the capital is there for those who can prove they aren’t just melting ice.
Here is the final, polished article. I have kept the narrative text completely free of links and consolidated everything—both the external data sources and your internal platform links—at the very bottom for a clean reading experience.
Title: The “Funding Winter” is a Myth. It’s Actually an Ice Age for Mediocrity.
Date: 13 December 2025 Category: Market Analysis
If you have tried to raise a Seed or Series A round in the last 6 months, you have felt it. The emails go unanswered. The due diligence drags on for months. The valuations are… humbling.
Everyone calls it the “Funding Winter.” But that implies it’s just a season that will pass, and soon the warm sun of “growth-at-all-costs” capital will return.
Newsflash: It won’t.
We investigated the definitive numbers for 2024 and 2025, and the data tells a different story. We aren’t in a winter; we are in a permanent climate shift. For Singapore’s founders, understanding this distinction is the difference between survival and extinction.
The Ugly Numbers
Let’s look at the cold, hard stats first. The drop isn’t a dip; it’s a cliff.
The Big Drop: Singapore’s overall tech funding crashed by 56% in 2024, falling to just $2.1 billion. To put that in perspective, that is a massive slide from $4.8 billion in 2023 and $8.1 billion in 2022.
Fintech Freeze: Southeast Asia’s darling sector, Fintech, has been hit the hardest. Funding for the sector has dropped to its lowest levels since 2016. The days of raising millions on a pitch deck and a generic “buy now, pay later” thesis are effectively over.
Late-Stage Drought: The pain is most acute at the top. Late-stage investments plummeted by nearly 75%. The “mega-rounds” that used to make headlines every week have all but vanished.
The “K-Shaped” Reality
However, if you look closer, the “Winter” isn’t freezing everyone equally. The market has bifurcated into a brutal K-shaped recovery.
Who is Freezing (The Bottom Leg of the K):
Consumer Apps: E-commerce, food delivery, and “Uber for X” models with negative unit economics.
Me-Too Fintech: The 50th digital wallet or payment gateway.
SaaS without AI: Generic B2B software that doesn’t leverage proprietary intelligence.
Who is Heating Up (The Top Leg of the K): While general tech funding slumped, Deep Tech is proving to be the exception.
Deal Volume is UP: While the dollar amount dipped slightly, the number of deals for early-stage emerging tech startups actually increased in 2024 (rising from 49 to 56 deals). This means VCs are still writing checks—they are just writing them for harder, more defensible problems.
Strategic Sectors:Advanced Manufacturing and Sustainability are leading the resurgence. These sectors are seeing renewed interest because they align with global demands for supply chain resilience and decarbonization.
Government “Dry Powder”: The Singapore government isn’t sitting on the sidelines. They recently injected an additional S$440 million into the Startup SG Equity scheme specifically to attract more global VC investment into deep tech.
The Rise of “SG Growth Capital”
One of the most significant shifts for 2025 is the consolidation of government funding power. The merger of EDBI and SEEDS Capital into the new SG Growth Capital entity is a game-changer.
This signals a streamlined approach to backing high-potential startups. It effectively creates a massive “sovereign safety net” for companies building critical capabilities—semiconductors, biotech, and clean energy—that commercial VCs might deem too risky in this climate.
How to Survive the Ice Age
Forget “Growth,” Worship “Gross Margin”: In 2021, you were valued on GMV (Gross Merchandise Value). In 2025, you are valued on Gross Profit. If your unit economics don’t work today, you won’t get a Series A.
Hunt for “Sovereign Money”: Don’t just pitch VCs. Pitch the national interest. Does your startup help Singapore secure its food, water, or energy? If yes, target SG Growth Capital.
Get Technical: The data shows that “Emerging Tech” is resilient while “General Tech” is collapsing. If your “AI Startup” is just a wrapper around OpenAI’s API, you are vulnerable. Build proprietary IP that justifies a valuation premium.
The Verdict
The “Funding Winter” is really just a return to sanity. The tourists have left the building. What remains are the serious builders and the serious investors.
If you are building something real, there has never been a better time to be in Singapore. The check sizes might be smaller, and the diligence harder, but the capital is there for those who can prove they aren’t just melting ice.
The headline isn’t clickbait. If you are building in deep tech – specifically in AI infrastructure, advanced materials, or semiconductors – there is one room you need to be in this year.
It’s not in a hotel ballroom in Marina Bay Sands. It’s in Fremont, California.
Lam Capital, the venture arm of semiconductor giant Lam Research, has just opened applications for its 2026 Venture Competition. For Singaporean startups, this is more than just a pitch event; it is the most direct bridge to the heart of the Silicon Valley hardware ecosystem.
The “Who’s Who” Factor
The biggest challenge for Singapore deep tech startups isn’t technology; it’s access. You can build world-class tech in One-North, but selling it often requires shaking hands in the Bay Area.
This competition solves the access problem in one afternoon. When you pitch at this event, you aren’t just facing Lam Research executives. The room is historically packed with decision-makers from the giants of the US tech world – think Intel, Microsoft, and NVIDIA – along with top-tier deep tech VCs who rarely fly 16 hours to Singapore for a demo day.
The Opportunity: You are not just competing for the $250,000 investment prize (though that helps). You are competing for the business cards of the people who sign POs (Purchase Orders) and Series B checks.
The 2026 Theme: “Building the AI Backbone”
This year’s theme is tailor-made for Singapore’s current R&D strengths. They are looking for startups that enable the AI revolution from the hardware up:
AI for Materials Discovery: (A huge focus for our local universities)
Smart Manufacturing & Digital Twins: (Right in the Industry 4.0 wheelhouse)
Advanced Packaging: (The sector where Singapore is already a global leader)
Why This Matters for Singapore
We talk a lot about “ecosystem building.” But a true ecosystem isn’t an island. Singapore has successfully attracted Lam Research to build manufacturing capacity here (like their facility in Batu Kawan and partnerships with local suppliers). Now, it’s time for the flow to go the other way.
This competition is a rare “fast lane” for Singaporean IP to get validated by US standards. A finalist spot puts a stamp of approval on your tech that is recognized globally, instantly de-risking you for other investors.
The Details
Event Date: May 21, 2026
Location: Fremont, California
Application Deadline:Sunday, March 15, 2026
DeepTechSG Verdict: If you have a prototype and a passport, applying is a no-brainer. The application takes a few hours; the network you build in that room could define your next decade.
If you thought the previous RIE2025 plan was ambitious, hold onto your lab goggles. The government has just dropped the details for RIE2030, committing a record S$37 billion to research and development from 2026 to 2030.
That is a 32% jump from the last five-year tranche. But the raw number isn’t the real story here.
For the deep tech ecosystem, this isn’t just “maintenance money.” It is a massive war chest designed to turn Singapore into a global node for high-stakes innovation. As reported by The Straits Times, the focus has shifted decisively towards value creation and economic resilience.
Think of RIE2030 as the “Chilli Padi” of tech budgets: compact relative to the US or China, but potent, fiery, and impossible to ignore.
💰 DeepTechSG Reality Check: The Inflation Factor
Before we pop the champagne, let’s look at the real numbers. A dollar in 2021 isn’t worth a dollar in 2026.
We ran the budget against Singapore’s cumulative inflation over the last cycle (approx. 18.8% from 2021-2025).
Nominal Increase: +32.1% (S28B➔S37B)
Inflation “Tax”: -18.8%
Real Growth:~11.2%
The Verdict: Even after stripping away the inflation noise, this budget represents a solid double-digit real-term increase in firing power. The government isn’t just maintaining the status quo; they are aggressively expanding the runway.
At DeepTechSG, we have combed through the white papers so you don’t have to. Here is the comprehensive breakdown of what RIE2030 really means—and how to ensure your startup gets a slice of the pie.
1. The Strategic Pivot: From “Research” to “Results”
For decades, the narrative was about building capacity—getting the labs built and the PhDs hired. RIE2030 marks a definitive pivot. The new keyword is “Value Creation.”
The government is no longer just interested in how many papers you publish in Nature. They want to know:
Can this be patented?
Can this be spun out?
Can this create jobs in Singapore?
Insider Tip: If you are a researcher, the “publish or perish” mantra is dead. It is now “productize or perish.” The most attractive grants in this cycle will require a clear commercialization roadmap from Day 1.
2. The “Flagship” Plays: Where the Big Money is Flowing
The plan introduces the concept of “Flagships” and “Grand Challenges” to direct funding into specific, high-impact zones. If your startup operates in these lanes, your valuation just got a hypothetical bump.
The Semiconductor Flagship: With global supply chains fracturing, Singapore is paying a premium to lock in its relevance. The focus isn’t on competing with TSMC on 2nm nodes (a losing battle). Instead, the R&D dollars are flowing into Advanced Packaging, Photonics, and Heterogeneous Integration.
The Ageing Grand Challenge: We are getting older, faster than almost anywhere else. The government is pouring money into “Longevity” research. The focus is moving from treating sickness to extending healthspan—a massive green light for MedTech and “Silver Economy” startups.
3. For Founders: Unlocking the “War Chest” (20%)
Crucially, S$7.5 billion (20%) of the budget is earmarked specifically for Innovation and Enterprise (I&E). This is the pot that fuels venture building and deep tech clusters.
De-risking the “Deep” in Deep Tech: Founders in high-CAPEX fields (Climate Tech, Advanced Materials) often die in the “Valley of Death.” This allocation signals more aggressive “gap funding” to bridge you to Series A.
The “White Space” Wildcard: With S$6.4 billion (17%) set aside for “White Space” (emerging areas that don’t exist yet), nearly 40% of the budget is flexible fuel for the unknown.
The Opportunity: If your startup idea is so weird it doesn’t fit into a standard grant category, do not give up. This fund is designed specifically for “moonshot” ideas that break existing categories.
4. For Investors: The “Crowding In” Effect
For VCs, incubators, and accelerators, RIE2030 is essentially a massive matching fund signal.
Co-Investment is King: The government wants private sector validation. Expect new schemes that match private VC capital with government grants.
The Talent Pipeline: 10% of the budget is dedicated to talent. The influx of funding for PhDs and research fellows ensures a steady stream of technical co-founders entering the market.
5. What You Need to Do Next
The money is there, but it won’t just land in your bank account. You need to position yourself in the path of the funding.
Align with the Pillars: Review your pitch deck. Does your solution map onto one of the four key domains (Manufacturing, Health, Sustainability, Digital Economy)?
Partner Up: The “Value Creation” focus favors consortiums. A startup partnering with A*STAR or a local university will likely have a higher win rate for grants.
Get Connected: Don’t operate in a silo. Enter the DeepTechSG platform today to find the investors, projects, and startup partners that are already aligning themselves with these new RIE2030 priorities.
The Bottom Line
At roughly 1% of GDP, Singapore’s R&D spending puts it on par with small, advanced powerhouses like Sweden and Denmark. But RIE2030 is different. It is less about academic prestige and more about economic survival.
For the DeepTechSG community, the message is simple: The infrastructure is being built. The capital is deployed. The safety net is wider than ever.
Singapore is set to host SWITCH 2025 – the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology, from 29 to 31 October 2025 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. This 10th edition marks a decade of connecting science, engineering, and entrepreneurship, and coincides with Singapore’s 60th year of independence. Together, these milestones highlight Singapore’s role as one of Asia’s most active deep-tech innovation hubs.
Over the past ten years, SWITCH has evolved from a national initiative into a truly global platform for research translation and venture creation. It brings together government agencies, research institutions, corporates, startups, and investors to move technology out of the lab and into the market.
The event is central to Singapore’s innovation strategy, serving as a bridge between public R&D and private-sector application. Each year, SWITCH accelerates collaboration between scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Its focus remains on areas where technology can drive industrial transformation—robotics, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, quantum technologies, and biotechnology.
Unlike many startup exhibitions, SWITCH is designed for depth. It is about systems, not slogans; prototypes, not pitches. It draws those who are working on long-horizon challenges and creating technologies with real technical complexity and commercial potential.
What’s New at SWITCH 2025
Main Stage and Global Forums
The main stage will feature thought leaders from across the world discussing how deep technologies are reshaping manufacturing, mobility, healthcare, and sustainability. Topics will include the future of embodied AI, quantum computing, industrial automation, and climate-tech solutions. These sessions are designed to provide both strategic context and practical insight into how innovation is deployed at scale.
SWITCH Beyond
The SWITCH Beyond programme continues to be the technical heart of the event. It offers deep-dive masterclasses led by experts in robotics, quantum systems, advanced manufacturing, and biomedical science. These sessions go beyond trendspotting—they dissect engineering challenges, business models, and scaling strategies. For founders and engineers, SWITCH Beyond is where ideas become implementable roadmaps.
Exhibition and Innovation Marketplace
More than four hundred exhibitors from around the world are expected to take part, representing startups, universities, research labs, and large corporates. The exhibition floor is structured as a marketplace for collaboration, where applied research meets industrial needs. Demonstrations, prototypes, and pilot systems provide tangible proof of progress in fields from automation and materials science to digital health and clean energy.
SLINGSHOT 2025
The annual SLINGSHOT competition remains one of the highlights of SWITCH. Thousands of startups apply from around the world, with sixty finalists invited to pitch live in Singapore. The competition offers founders not just exposure to investors, but opportunities to secure pilots, partnerships, and direct support from corporate innovation teams. Many previous winners have gone on to secure funding or international expansion following their appearance at SWITCH.
Global Market Access and Matchmaking
SWITCH 2025 includes dedicated programmes to connect innovators with opportunities across more than fifteen global markets. Market-access tracks and curated networking sessions will help startups explore international expansion, regulatory requirements, and potential partnerships. For Singapore-based founders, this is an unmatched opportunity to reach beyond the region.
Youth, Community and SG60 Focus
Because the 2025 edition coincides with Singapore’s 60th anniversary, SWITCH will also feature community-focused activities and youth innovation showcases. These segments aim to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers while celebrating the role of research and technology in Singapore’s national story.
Why SWITCH 2025 Matters
For deep-tech founders, SWITCH is not just a conference—it is an ecosystem accelerator.
Depth of Dialogue The event provides the rare chance to discuss engineering-level detail in an environment where technical expertise is valued. It brings together specialists who understand the timeframes, costs, and complexity of building deep-tech ventures.
Pilot and Commercialization Opportunities Corporates and government agencies attend SWITCH looking for technologies ready for proof-of-concept or pilot deployment. For startups, this means real prospects for collaboration and validation.
Investor Access Global venture firms and deep-tech investors are consistently present at SWITCH. For companies seeking funding for hardware, manufacturing, or applied research, the event provides direct visibility to investors who understand the long game of deep technology.
Global Reach SWITCH strengthens Singapore’s position as the gateway between Asia and the world. Its international delegations and cross-border initiatives help founders access new markets, research partnerships, and production ecosystems.
How Deep-Tech Founders Can Maximize SWITCH
Plan Your Agenda Around Your Domain Identify masterclasses and talks most relevant to your field—robotics, AI, materials, or quantum—and reserve time for meaningful engagement.
Show, Don’t Tell Prepare prototypes, models, or visual demonstrations. SWITCH is a hands-on event where technical readiness speaks louder than slides.
Build Relationships in Advance Use SWITCH’s networking tools to pre-book meetings with potential partners and investors. A focused schedule yields far more results than spontaneous networking.
Engage with International Delegations Explore opportunities to collaborate or co-develop technology with overseas accelerators, corporate labs, or research agencies represented at the event.
Create Post-Event Momentum Capture insights, summarize key trends, and follow up with contacts after the event. The real value of SWITCH often comes in the weeks that follow, when discussions turn into partnerships.
The Broader Context
SWITCH 2025 represents more than an annual meeting—it reflects the trajectory of Singapore’s innovation economy. Over the last decade, deep technology has become central to national competitiveness, driving productivity in manufacturing, sustainability, and healthcare. SWITCH provides a visible focal point for these ambitions, linking policy, research, and enterprise.
The event also demonstrates the maturity of Asia’s deep-tech ecosystem. From venture funds dedicated to hard science startups to corporate R&D partnerships, the region now supports innovation that rivals the most advanced markets globally. SWITCH 2025 is both a celebration of that progress and a catalyst for its next phase.
Conclusion
SWITCH 2025 is set to be the most comprehensive edition yet—a convergence of research excellence, technical innovation, and global collaboration. For scientists, founders, and corporates building the future of deep technology, it offers unmatched access to knowledge, capital, and partnerships.
As Singapore marks both its 60th year and a decade of SWITCH, the event stands as proof of what sustained investment in innovation can achieve. It is where new technologies move from the lab to the factory floor, from concept to market—and where the future of deep tech begins.
DeepTechSG has officially launched a new platform designed for one purpose: to connect every deep tech startup in Singapore with the investors looking for them.
If you are a founder, you can now list your startup on app.deeptech.sg. This central directory allows you to showcase your technology, funding stage, and core capabilities to a verified network of local and global investors.
For investors, this platform serves as a consolidated search engine. Instead of relying on scattered networks, you can now find, filter, and connect with Singapore’s deep tech ventures in one place.
The goal is simple: To make the ecosystem accessible. Startups get the visibility they need, and investors get the deal flow they want.
Securing funding is one of the biggest challenges for deep tech startups. In Singapore, however, several government initiatives and grants specifically target innovation-driven projects. This article outlines the major programs, offers tips for putting together a strong application, and shares personal notes from the author on what it really takes to succeed.
1. Why Government Grants Matter for Deep Tech
Deep tech ventures typically involve substantial research, development, and prototyping—often requiring specialized talent, equipment, and longer timelines. Traditional investors may hesitate due to higher perceived risks and a slower payoff. Government grants help bridge that gap by:
Reducing Financial Risk: You can offset high R&D costs through non-dilutive funding.
Validating Your Project: A government seal of approval signals credibility to future investors or partners.
Boosting Ecosystem Support: Grants often come with mentorship, networking, or training programs that accelerate growth.
Personal Note: “It’s extremely important to show any government program how your project benefits Singapore—jobs, technology leadership, economic value, etc. They want to see a clear local impact.”
2. Top Government Grants for Deep Tech Projects
2.1 Startup SG Founder
What It Is A program under Enterprise Singapore that helps first-time founders get their ventures off the ground. While it’s not exclusively for deep tech, it covers innovative ideas with high growth potential.
Key Features
Grant amount up to S$50,000 (with 1:1 matching by founders)
Mentorship from a government-appointed partner (e.g., incubator, venture builder)
Eligibility
At least 2 Singapore Citizen/PR founders with minimum 30% equity
First-time entrepreneurs as key decision-makers
Original business idea with strong innovation and market potential
Application Tip: “They want evidence of your commitment—like personal funds, validated market interest, and a concise, well-structured pitch deck.”
2.2 Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)
What It Is The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) supports Singapore-based businesses looking to upgrade capabilities, innovate, and venture overseas. Deep tech projects often qualify under its ‘Innovation and Productivity’ pillar.
Key Features
Covers up to 70% of qualifying costs (for SMEs; up to 50% for non-SMEs)
Funds consultancy fees, software/equipment, and internal manpower costs
Eligibility
Registered and operating in Singapore
Minimum 30% local shareholding
Financially stable enough to start and complete the project
Personal Note: “EDG applications are lengthy and must be well done. They want to see a lot of proof of costs—quotes, invoices, vendor proposals. Don’t try to fudge the numbers or they’ll reject your application.”
2.3 SGInnovate Investments & Grants
What It Is SGInnovate focuses on deep tech areas like AI, biotech, robotics, and quantum computing. It offers both direct investments and grant-like support and has a strong network in Singapore’s innovation ecosystem.
Key Features
Equity investments in promising deep tech startups
Access to mentorship, labs, and corporate partners
Eligibility
Must demonstrate unique technological innovation
Potential to scale globally
Based in or strongly connected to Singapore’s startup scene
Application Tip: “SGInnovate looks for world-class tech with a clear commercialization path. Highlight your R&D roadmap and how it benefits Singapore—through IP creation, job growth, or contributing to the local tech ecosystem.”
2.4 Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) Schemes
What It Is These are various research and development initiatives under Singapore’s national RIE plans. Some are run by agencies like the National Research Foundation (NRF), A*STAR, or EDB.
Key Features
Large-scale funding for mid-to-long-term R&D
Often tied to strategic sectors (e.g., advanced manufacturing, biomedical sciences, AI)
Eligibility
Varies by program; may require partnerships with local research institutions
Must show high-impact research with commercial potential
Personal Note: “Applications need detailed R&D timelines, patent plans, and feasibility studies. If you’re collaborating with a research institute, start collecting documents early.”
2.5 Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)
While PSG primarily supports adopting productivity solutions (e.g., automation tools, CRM software), deep tech startups can leverage it for certain pre-approved tech solutions to streamline operations.
Key Features
Up to 70% funding support for adopting pre-scoped IT solutions or equipment
Faster application process compared to other grants
Eligibility
Registered and operating in Singapore
Minimum 30% local shareholding
Tech solution/equipment must be on the PSG pre-approved list
Application Tip: “Though not purely for R&D, PSG can help reduce operational costs, leaving more resources for your deep tech development.”
3. How to Prepare a Strong Grant Application
Show the Benefit to Singapore
Emphasize how your project creates local jobs, advances tech leadership, or bolsters the economy.
Highlight collaborations with universities, labs, or local SMEs.
Be Thorough With Documentation
Expect requests for financial statements, cost breakdowns, and milestones.
Provide real vendor quotes, receipts, or proposals—agencies will verify them.
Craft a Clear Value Proposition
Explain what sets your technology apart.
Back up your claims with data or case studies proving market need.
Focus on Feasibility
Offer a realistic timeline and budget.
Show you have the right team, resources, and technical plan.
Don’t Underestimate the Time & Effort
Applications can take weeks (or months). Factor in time for revisions and responses to agency queries.
Personal Note: “Mostly they want to see proof of costs—so don’t try to bullshit them. If anything seems off, they’ll reject you right away.”
4. Application Process: Step by Step
Identify the Right Grant
Match your project scope with the relevant program (e.g., EDG vs. Startup SG Founder).
Prepare your business plan, technical specs, cost spreadsheets, vendor quotes, and team resumes.
Include any MOUs or letters of intent from partners.
Fill Out Application Forms
Carefully address each question. Missing info can cause major delays.
Submit & Await Response
Expect the process to take a few weeks to a few months.
Respond promptly if agencies request more details or clarification.
Grant Approval & Disbursement
You’ll get a Letter of Offer specifying timelines and deliverables.
Funds are usually disbursed in milestones tied to specific achievements.
5. Success Stories (Brief Examples)
AI Startup Uses EDG A local AI company secured EDG funding to expand its data science team and developed a proprietary machine learning platform, later attracting large corporate clients.
Biotech Venture with SGInnovate A biotech firm partnered with A*STAR for R&D and co-investment from SGInnovate, enabling them to pilot a new medical device and secure international interest.
6. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Underestimating Required Documentation: Missing quotes, incomplete spreadsheets, or vague timelines can derail your application.
Weak Market Validation: If you can’t show real user interest, agencies may see your project as too risky.
Overpromising: Inflated projections or unrealistic milestones damage credibility.
No Clear Local Impact: Grants hinge on how your startup benefits Singapore—be explicit about that.
Conclusion
For deep tech entrepreneurs in Singapore, government grants can be a game-changer—covering crucial R&D costs and boosting credibility. From Startup SG Founder to EDG, SGInnovate, and PSG, these programs provide substantial support if you present a compelling solution that aligns with national goals.
Author’s Final Note: “Applications can be lengthy. Show exactly how your project benefits Singapore and offer rock-solid proof of your costs. Honesty and clarity go a long way in securing the funds you need.”
By investing the time to prepare a thorough application—demonstrating local impact, feasibility, and real-world demand—you’ll greatly improve your odds of landing valuable grant support for your deep tech venture. Good luck!
Engineers excel at solving complex problems and turning ideas into prototypes. This skill set makes you uniquely suited to founding a startup—especially if you can find a real business problem that customers will pay to solve. Below, discover how to spot opportunities, get customers to fund your proof of concept, and transition from engineer to entrepreneur.
YOUR TECHNICAL EDGE
PROBLEM-SOLVING MINDSET You’re trained to identify and fix technical issues—vital for building a deep tech or innovation-driven startup.
VISUAL COMMUNICATION Tools like CAD, 3D rendering, and simulations allow you to demonstrate your solution clearly, making it easier to convince clients or investors.
RAPID PROTOTYPING Engineers can iterate quickly. Whether it’s hardware or software, you already know how to test and refine concepts.
(Visit DeepTech.sg for more info: https://www.deeptech.sg/)
VENTURE BUILDERS & STARTUP BUILDERS Many startup builders in Singapore (https://www.deeptech.sg/) partner with established companies, giving you direct access to real challenges—and potential paying customers.
CHALLENGE PLATFORMS (E.G., AGORIZE) Participate in Agorize challenges (https://www.agorize.com/) to compete for seed funding or pilot project deals from corporate sponsors.
ASK CUSTOMERS TO FUND YOUR PROTOTYPE
MUTUAL BENEFIT The customer gets a solution for their pain point, and you receive development resources plus feedback.
PROOF OF DEMAND Upfront payment validates that your idea has real market value.
REDUCED RISK Even if it doesn’t work out, you’ve showcased your expertise and made connections. Sometimes the company may hire you.
(Check out DeepTech.sg for more startup tips: https://www.deeptech.sg/)
PITCHING YOUR TECHNICAL SOLUTION
USE CAD & 3D MODELS Provide concrete visuals so non-technical stakeholders can better grasp your concept.
SIMPLIFY YOUR MESSAGE Translate complex engineering terms into clear benefits like cost reduction or efficiency gains.
DEMONSTRATE PROGRESS Share prototypes or simulations regularly to maintain engagement and build trust.
GROW THROUGH INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
NETWORKING & EVENTS Attend tech conferences and hackathons in Singapore (e.g., IoT Asia: https://www.iotasia.com/) to meet corporate innovators seeking fresh solutions.
UNIVERSITY INCUBATORS Programs at NUS Enterprise (https://enterprise.nus.edu.sg/) or NTUitive (https://www.ntuitive.sg/) offer mentorship and corporate links.
ONLINE COMMUNITIES Look for LinkedIn groups or forums like Hardware Massive (https://hardwaremassive.com/) to find collaborators and potential clients.
SHIFT TO AN ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET
BUSINESS BASICS Understand pricing, contracts, and cash flow. You don’t need an MBA, just enough knowledge to negotiate and manage deals.
NEGOTIATION SKILLS Don’t shy away from asking for upfront or milestone-based payments. Your expertise is valuable.
COLLABORATION If sales or marketing aren’t your strengths, partner with people who can fill those gaps.
EMBRACE POTENTIAL FAILURE
PLAN B Even if a project stalls, you’ve proven your capabilities. This can lead to job offers or new partnerships.
ITERATIVE LEARNING Each setback refines your approach, improving future pitches and solutions.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As an engineer, you have a massive advantage in the startup world: the ability to solve technical problems and demonstrate them through CAD, prototypes, or simulations. The trick is finding real challenges—through tender platforms, venture builders, or innovation competitions—and securing customer payments for your proof of concept.
For more insights on moving from engineer to founder, visit DeepTech.sg (https://www.deeptech.sg/). Turn your technical prowess into a thriving venture—one problem at a time.
Singapore has emerged as a leading hub for deep tech innovation, offering a fertile ground for investors seeking high-growth opportunities. The nation’s strategic initiatives, robust support systems, and thriving ecosystem make it an attractive destination for deep tech investments. Let us dive a bit into Investing in Deep Tech: Opportunities in Singapore.
Government Initiatives and Funding
When it comes to deep tech, the Singaporean government has shown remarkable dedication. Through the Research, Innovation, and Enterprise (RIE) 2025 plan, a staggering S$25 billion has been allocated to advance critical sectors like health, sustainability, and the digital economy.
Moreover, Temasek, the state investment company, has pledged to invest S$1 billion annually into deep tech research and innovation. This funding spans diverse domains, including advanced manufacturing and life sciences, solidifying Singapore’s position as a leader in innovation.
Thriving Deep Tech Ecosystem
Singapore’s deep tech ecosystem is growing rapidly. For instance, in 2023, there was a 31% year-on-year increase in deep tech deals, accounting for 25% of the total deal value.
Even more exciting is that this growth stems from a strong foundation in scientific research combined with carefully structured, long-term investments in technology. As a result, Singapore is fostering an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Furthermore, Singapore’s location is a major advantage. As a gateway to Southeast Asia’s burgeoning markets, the nation is perfectly positioned for regional expansion.
With its advanced infrastructure, political stability, and business-friendly policies, Singapore has created an environment where deep tech investors can thrive. Transitioning seamlessly between global and local opportunities has never been easier for companies based here.
Investment Opportunities
In addition to these advantages, Singapore offers diverse opportunities for deep tech investors, including:
Biotechnology and Life Sciences: With substantial government backing and a strong research foundation, Singapore is set to deliver groundbreaking healthcare and pharmaceutical innovations.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: As digital transformation continues, Singapore is emerging as a hub for cutting-edge AI and robotics ventures.
Advanced Manufacturing: Singapore’s commitment to innovative manufacturing processes ensures a high potential for significant returns on investment.
Conclusion
To sum up, Singapore’s combination of proactive policies, a thriving ecosystem, and strategic advantages makes it an exceptional choice for deep tech investments. If you’re ready to capitalize on the next wave of innovation, Singapore offers countless opportunities to make that happen.
We are doing our part to support this ecosystem by providing AI-driven matching systems that connect investors, researchers, and startups. Visit deeptech.sg to log in and learn more about investing in deep tech in Singapore.
Recent Developments in Singapore’s Deep Tech Landscape
Financial Times: TSMC on alert and Singapore on the rise (37 days ago)
Reuters: Singapore’s Keppel aims to expand data centre capacity, FUM amid AI boom (45 days ago)
Financial Times: AstraZeneca to build $1.5bn manufacturing site in Singapore (201 days ago)
By staying updated on developments like these, you can remain ahead in the deep tech investment game.
