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Expanding Overseas: Your Complete Guide to the MRA Grant in Singapore

Summary

The MRA Grant helps Singapore SMEs expand globally with up to 70% funding support. Meeting eligibility criteria and working with MRA grant consultants Singapore ensures a smoother, more successful application process.

Introduction

For Singaporean small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand their businesses beyond the local market, internationalisation is a key growth strategy. However, venturing into foreign markets can be risky and expensive. This is where the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant offered by Enterprise Singapore comes in as a game-changer.

In this blog post, we will delve into what the MRA Grant is, who qualifies, what support it offers, and why engaging MRA grant consultants in Singapore can be a smart move. Whether you're a business owner considering international expansion or simply exploring funding options, this comprehensive guide will give you a solid understanding of how the MRA Grant can help.

What is the MRA Grant?

The MRA Grant is a financial assistance program provided by Enterprise Singapore, designed to help local SMEs take their first steps toward internationalisation. It offers funding support to defray the costs of overseas market set-up, business development, and marketing efforts.

As of 2025, eligible companies can receive up to 70% funding support, capped at S$100,000 per new market per fiscal year. The grant covers key areas such as:

• Overseas market promotion (e.g., participation in trade fairs, in-market advertising)
  
  

• Overseas business development (e.g., market entry advisory, business matching)
  
  

• Overseas market set-up (e.g., company incorporation, IP protection, business licensing)
  
  

This support lowers the financial barriers to entry, enabling Singaporean businesses to test foreign markets with greater confidence and less risk.

MRA Grant Eligibility Criteria in Singapore

Before applying, it's essential to ensure that your company meets the MRA grant eligibility criteria in Singapore. The criteria are quite specific and ensure that only suitable candidates benefit from the funding:

1. Registered and operating in Singapore
   The business must be physically present in Singapore and registered with ACRA (Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority).
   
   

2. At least 30% local shareholding
   The company must have at least 30% ownership held by Singaporean citizens or permanent residents.
   
   

3. Group annual sales turnover of less than S$100 million, OR group employment size of less than 200 employees
   This ensures that only SMEs are eligible.
   
   

4. Not have previously received the MRA grant for the same activity in the same market
   The grant is meant to support new market entry. Repeated applications for the same activity in the same market are not eligible.
   
   

Why Apply for the MRA Grant?

Global expansion can provide a wide range of benefits for Singaporean SMEs, including:

• Increased revenue potential by tapping into larger or underserved markets
  
  

• Diversification of risk by reducing dependence on the local market
  
  

• Access to new customers, suppliers, and talent
  
  

• Greater brand recognition and international competitiveness
  
  

However, these benefits often come with significant upfront costs—researching markets, setting up operations, hiring overseas talent, and localising products. The MRA Grant helps to offset these initial expenses, making overseas expansion more accessible to SMEs.

What Can the MRA Grant Be Used For?

Here’s a breakdown of the three key components the MRA Grant supports:

1. Overseas Market Promotion

Funding support for marketing and promotional activities such as:

• Participation in overseas trade fairs and exhibitions
  
  

• Marketing materials creation (brochures, websites)
  
  

• Digital advertising campaigns
  
  

• Public relations services
  
  

2. Overseas Business Development

Support for activities that build business connections and sales leads:

• In-market business matching
  
  

• Lead generation
  
  

• Market entry advisory services
  
  

• Identification of distributors or partners
  
  

3. Overseas Market Set-up

Assistance in navigating the complexities of starting operations in a new market:

• Company registration and legal support
  
  

• Application for licences and permits
  
  

• Intellectual property registration
  
  

• Translation services
  
  

How to Apply for the MRA Grant

Applying for the MRA Grant involves several steps, and while it can be done independently, many businesses choose to work with MRA grant consultants in Singapore to ensure a smooth process. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Engage a pre-approved vendor
   Choose a vendor from Enterprise Singapore’s list of approved consultants or service providers.
   
   

2. Obtain a quotation and proposal
   Vendors will provide you with a detailed proposal and cost breakdown for the intended services.
   
   

3. Submit your application via Business Grants Portal (BGP)
   Log in using your CorpPass and fill out the necessary details. Ensure that you attach all required documents, such as financial statements and business plans.
   
   

4. Wait for approval
   Applications usually take 6 to 8 weeks for approval. Do not commence the project before receiving approval.
   
   

5. Claim disbursement
   After the project is completed, submit proof of completion and receipts. Enterprise Singapore will then reimburse the approved amount.
   
   

The Role of MRA Grant Consultants in Singapore

Applying for grants, managing documents, and liaising with Enterprise Singapore can be time-consuming and complex. That’s why many businesses partner with professional MRA grant consultants in Singapore.

Here are a few reasons why working with a consultant makes sense:

• Expertise: Consultants are familiar with the application process and documentation requirements, improving your chances of approval.
  
  

• Time-saving: They handle paperwork, liaise with vendors, and track deadlines so you can focus on your core business.
  
  

• Strategic advice: Good consultants don’t just help with the application—they also provide insights on market strategies and vendor selection.
  
  

Recent Updates on the MRA Grant

The MRA Grant has seen several revisions over the years. As of 2025, key updates include:

• Increased focus on digital market expansion, such as e-commerce and digital marketing campaigns
  
  

• Tighter restrictions to avoid repeat funding for similar activities in the same market
  
  

• Stronger emphasis on outcome tracking and ROI justification
  
  

Conclusion

The MRA Grant by Enterprise Singapore is a powerful tool for SMEs looking to enter or expand into overseas markets. With generous funding support, clear eligibility criteria, and a structured application process, the grant removes many of the financial hurdles associated with internationalisation.

Understanding the MRA grant eligibility criteria in Singapore and working with trusted MRA grant consultants in Singapore can significantly streamline the process and boost your chances of a successful grant application.

If you're considering overseas expansion in 2025 or beyond, don’t overlook the strategic benefits that the MRA Grant can offer. Think of it as your launchpad to international success — and with ThinkSME by your side, the right guidance and preparation can help your business grow confidently on the global stage.

FAQ

1: What is the MRA Grant and who offers it?

The Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant is offered by Enterprise Singapore to help local SMEs take their first steps into overseas markets. It provides up to 70% funding support (capped at S$100,000 per new market per fiscal year) for activities such as market setup, business development, and overseas marketing.

2: What are the MRA Grant eligibility criteria in Singapore?

To qualify for the MRA Grant, companies must meet the following MRA grant eligibility criteria in Singapore:

• Registered and operating in Singapore
  
  

• Have at least 30% local shareholding
  
  

• Group annual turnover of less than S$100 million OR fewer than 200 employees
  
  

• Have not previously applied for the same activity in the same market
  
  

3: Can I apply for the MRA Grant more than once?

Yes, you can apply multiple times, but only once per activity per target market. For example, if you’ve received MRA support for marketing in Indonesia, you cannot apply again for the same marketing activity in Indonesia, but you can apply for a different activity or a different market.

4: What can the MRA Grant be used for?

The MRA Grant supports three key categories:

1. Overseas market promotion – including trade fairs, advertising, PR
   
   

2. Overseas business development – such as business matching and market entry consultancy
   
   

3. Overseas market set-up – including incorporation, IP protection, and licensing
   
   

 5: How do I apply for the MRA Grant?

 You can apply via the Business Grants Portal using your company’s CorpPass. The application process involves:

• Getting a quote from a pre-approved vendor
  
  

• Submitting the proposal and supporting documents
  
  

• Waiting for approval (usually 6–8 weeks)
  
  

• Completing the project
  
  

• Submitting claims for reimbursement
  
  

 6: Why should I work with MRA Grant consultants in Singapore?

While it’s possible to apply independently, MRA grant consultants in Singapore provide valuable expertise, especially when navigating the grant process, ensuring compliance, preparing documentation, and aligning your business strategy with Enterprise Singapore requirements. Their guidance can increase your application’s approval chances and help you maximise your funding.