Government grants can be transformative for Singapore SMEs — but only if your application is approved. Despite the generous funding available through CCP, PSG, EDG, and MRA, a significant number of applications face delays, requests for additional information, or outright rejection each year.
At Supreme Solution Consultancy, we have reviewed hundreds of grant applications — and the same mistakes come up repeatedly. Here are the top five reasons Singapore SME grant applications get rejected, and exactly what you need to do to avoid them.
Reason 1
Payment or Contract Signed Before Grant Approval
This is the single most common — and most painful — mistake. For PSG, EDG, MRA, and most other grants, you must receive approval before signing any vendor contract, issuing any purchase order, or making any payment. The moment money changes hands or a contract is executed before your grant is approved, you are automatically disqualified.
How to avoid it: Submit your BGP application before any procurement activity begins. This includes verbal agreements and pro-forma invoices that imply commitment.
“Premature payment is instant disqualification. No exceptions, no appeals. It is the most preventable mistake we see — and it costs businesses tens of thousands of dollars each year.”
— Augustin Lee, Founder, Supreme Solution Consultancy
Reason 2
Ineligible Vendor or Non-Pre-Approved Solution (PSG)
For PSG applications, your chosen solution must appear on the official pre-approved list managed by EnterpriseSG and IMDA. Many SMEs find a technology vendor through other channels, assume it qualifies, and apply — only to be told the solution is not on the approved list.
How to avoid it: Always verify your vendor’s approval status on the official Business Grants Portal before starting your application.
Reason 3
Vague or Poorly Scoped Project Proposal (EDG / MRA)
For EDG and MRA applications, you need to submit a detailed project proposal explaining what you are doing, why, and what outcomes you expect. Applications that lack specificity — using generic language like ‘improve our business processes’ or ‘explore overseas opportunities’ — score poorly in EnterpriseSG’s assessment.
How to avoid it: Be specific about your project scope, deliverables, timeline, and expected business outcomes. Quantify where possible.
Reason 4
- For most grants, the company must be registered in Singapore with at least 30% local equity held by Singapore Citizens or PRs
- Annual turnover and headcount thresholds vary by grant scheme — always verify before applying
- Some grants require the company to have been operating for a minimum period
- Charities, government entities, and non-profit organisations are generally ineligible for most EnterpriseSG and WSG grants
Reason 5
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
- Missing supporting documents — financial statements, ACRA business profile, quotations from vendors — are a leading cause of rejection and delay
- Inconsistencies between the application form and supporting documents trigger immediate flags
- For EDG: the service provider's accreditation must be verified (TR 43 or SS 680 for management consultancy costs)
- For CCP: training plans must be structured to meet WSG's programme requirements, not just submitted as generic descriptions
