Startup SG Founder (SSG Founder)
· Last verified 1 Nov 2026Mentorship and a startup grant for aspiring first-time entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. Founding teams may include non-first-time entrepreneurs, and RSEs and serial entrepreneurs may be involved part-time. Applications go through an Accredited Mentor Partner (AMP).
- Support
- Startup grant of S$20,000 to S$50,000, supported on a 1:1 ratio: applicants must inject co-matching paid-up capital equal to the grant amount (e.g. S$20,000 capital for a S$20,000 grant). Co-matching may also come from AMP or third-party investment (e.g. convertible/SAFE notes); at least 50% must be paid-up capital on ACRA Bizfile when the application is submitted to EnterpriseSG.
- Maximum funding
- S$50,000
- How to apply
- Through an Accredited Mentor Partner, then Enterprise Singapore
- Apply before starting?
- Yes, before any commitment or payment
Recent changes
Revised scheme from 1 Apr 2024: 1:1 co-matching for grants of S$20,000-S$50,000, with founding teams allowed to include non-first-time entrepreneurs and part-time RSEs/serial entrepreneurs (Startup SG page, last updated 20 Aug 2026).
Who is eligible
- Registered and operating in Singapore
- At least 30% local shareholding
- Company age: Recently incorporated (exact age limit unverified)
- Led by first-time entrepreneur(s); non-first-time entrepreneurs and part-time RSEs/serial entrepreneurs may be part of the founding team (exact rules on the Eligibility tab, unverified)
- Assessed on the business concept, feasibility of the business model, strength of the team and market potential
- Needs an AMP's recommendation
Quick eligibility check
- 1. Is your company incorporated in Singapore?
- 2. Do Singapore citizens and/or PRs own at least 30% of the company?
- 3. Is at least one founder a first-time entrepreneur (other team members may be experienced or part-time founders)?
- 4. Do you have an innovative business idea with a clear business model?
- 5. Can you commit the required co-matching funds?
- 6. Will an Accredited Mentor Partner support your application?
0 of 6 answered.
What it covers
- Startup operating costs (as approved)
How to apply
- Pitch to an Accredited Mentor Partner (listed on startupsg.gov.sg)
- Get the AMP's letter of recommendation
- Submit the application to Enterprise Singapore
- Receive the Letter of Offer, and the grant is paid in tranches against milestones
Processing time: unverified
Claims: Funds are released against milestones agreed with the AMP and EnterpriseSG (details unverified).
Documents you need
- ACRA bizfile showing incorporation and shareholding
- Business plan / pitch deck
- Proof of co-matching funds (paid-up capital)
- Founders' NRIC/CVs
- AMP letter of recommendation
Free templates for this grant
Frequently asked questions
What is the Startup SG Founder?
Mentorship and a startup grant for aspiring first-time entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. Founding teams may include non-first-time entrepreneurs, and RSEs and serial entrepreneurs may be involved part-time. Applications go through an Accredited Mentor Partner (AMP).
How much funding does SSG Founder give?
Startup grant of S$20,000 to S$50,000, supported on a 1:1 ratio: applicants must inject co-matching paid-up capital equal to the grant amount (e.g. S$20,000 capital for a S$20,000 grant). Co-matching may also come from AMP or third-party investment (e.g. convertible/SAFE notes); at least 50% must be paid-up capital on ACRA Bizfile when the application is submitted to EnterpriseSG.
Who is eligible for SSG Founder?
Applicants must be registered and operating in Singapore, have at least 30% local shareholding. Led by first-time entrepreneur(s); non-first-time entrepreneurs and part-time RSEs/serial entrepreneurs may be part of the founding team (exact rules on the Eligibility tab, unverified) Assessed on the business concept, feasibility of the business model, strength of the team and market potential Needs an AMP's recommendation
How do I apply for SSG Founder?
Apply through Through an Accredited Mentor Partner, then Enterprise Singapore. You must apply before the project starts or any payment is made. Processing time: unverified.
What documents do I need for SSG Founder?
ACRA bizfile showing incorporation and shareholding; Business plan / pitch deck; Proof of co-matching funds (paid-up capital); Founders' NRIC/CVs; AMP letter of recommendation.
Sources
- Official page: https://www.startupsg.gov.sg/programmes/4894/startup-sg-founder
- https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/grow-your-business/partner-with-singapore/innovation-and-startups/join-startup-sg
- https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg/gov-assist/grants
Information last verified on 1 Nov 2026. Grant rules change often. Always confirm with Enterprise Singapore before you apply.
