Going global is one of the most significant growth moves a Singapore SME can make. It opens up new revenue streams, reduces dependence on the domestic market, and positions your brand for long-term scalability. But the costs of entering a new overseas market — from market research and trade fairs to incorporation and regulatory compliance — can add up quickly.
That’s where the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant comes in. Administered by Enterprise Singapore, the MRA provides Singapore SMEs with up to 50% co-funding, capped at S$100,000 per new international market. In this guide, we explain exactly what the MRA covers, who qualifies, and how to structure your application for maximum success.
What Does the MRA Grant Cover?
The MRA Grant is structured around three key activity categories, each designed to support a different stage of your market entry journey:
- Overseas Market Promotion: Participation in international trade fairs, overseas market studies and research, and business matching services in your target market
- Business Development: In-market business development activities, engaging local business development representatives, and regulatory advisory for market entry
- Market Setup: Company incorporation in the overseas market, intellectual property registration, and costs for obtaining import/export licences
“The MRA is not just a reimbursement — it is a strategic enabler. With S$100,000 per market, Singapore SMEs can enter multiple markets simultaneously and significantly reduce the financial risk of going global.”
— Augustin Lee, Founder, Supreme Solution Consultancy
Who Qualifies for MRA?
- Company registered and actively operating in Singapore
- Minimum 30% local equity held directly or indirectly by Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents
- Annual group sales of S$100 million or below, OR group employment of 200 staff or fewer
- New to the target overseas market — OR sales in that market have not exceeded S$100,000 in the past three years
- Application submitted at least one day before the project start date — no engagement letters signed and no payments made before grant approval
Which Markets Can You Target?
- ASEAN: Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Myanmar, Cambodia
- Greater China: Hong Kong SAR, mainland China, Taiwan
- South Asia: India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
- Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
How to Structure a Winning MRA Application
- Define a clear market entry rationale — EnterpriseSG wants to understand why you are entering this specific market and what your business case is
- Scope activities that are directly tied to market entry — avoid generic marketing spend that doesn't clearly link to a specific new market
- Engage credible in-market partners, business development representatives, or local advisors to strengthen your project plan
- Budget realistically — ensure your quoted costs are competitive, supported by documentation, and clearly categorised under the three activity types
- Apply before any activities begin — this is a hard requirement. Retroactive applications are not accepted.
