Enterprise Singapore, the country’s government agency focused on supporting startups, has committed SGD 55 million (approximately USD 39.5 million) to accelerate the growth of agriculture and aquaculture companies. Announced by Senior Minister for Trade and Industry Koh Poh Koon during a visit to local indoor farming startup Singrow in June 2025, this funding aims to build Singapore’s resilience in local food production and position the nation as a leader in agritech innovation. Grants will be distributed to promising startups through the government’s Business Grants Portal, with an emphasis on encouraging the adoption of advanced technologies in areas such as biotechnology, chemical engineering, and manufacturing.
This funding builds on Singapore’s broader goal of producing 30% of its nutritional needs domestically by 2030, marking a significant shift from its current reliance on imports for over 90% of food requirements. SEEDS Capital, the investment arm of Enterprise Singapore, already operates a co-investment scheme with private venture capital and accelerator partners to support startups aligned with national food security objectives. In parallel, special situation funds and separate grants, such as the 30×30 Express program, are providing additional financial support to local producers of key food items like eggs, fish, and leafy greens.
Government officials emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global food supply chains, increasing the urgency for technology-enabled local production. Ted Tan, Enterprise Singapore’s deputy CEO, noted that the additional funding would allow companies to scale rapidly and boost Singapore’s competitiveness on a global stage, further strengthening food security and supporting long-term economic priorities.
(Source: AgFunderNews)
