Singapore Budget 2025: Key Benefits for Small Businesses
The Singapore Budget 2025, presented by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on February 18, brings welcome relief for small businesses facing rising costs while also providing support for long-term growth. As your accounting partner, we’ve analysed the key measures that matter most to small business owners. Here’s what you need to know.
Immediate Cost Relief Measures
The government has introduced several measures to help manage your business costs:
1. Corporate Tax Relief and Cash Grant
Good news for your bottom line – you’ll receive a 50% corporate income tax rebate for YA 2025. Even better, if you employ at least one local worker in 2024, you’ll get a minimum cash grant of SG$2,000, even if you’re not profitable. The combined benefit is capped at SG$40,000 per company, providing meaningful support for small businesses.
2. Enhanced Wage Support
The Progressive Wage Credit Scheme has been improved to help you manage wage costs. The government will now co-fund 40% of wage increases in 2025 (up from 30%) and 20% in 2026 (up from 15%) for lower-wage workers. This support helps you retain valuable employees while managing payroll expenses.
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Digital Transformation Support
1. New AI Adoption Initiative
The Enterprise Compute Initiative will help small businesses leverage AI technology by providing access to cloud services, AI tools, and expert consultancy. This practical support reduces the barriers to adopting AI, helping you improve efficiency without heavy upfront investments.
2. Enhanced SkillsFuture Support
The new SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant covers up to 70% of job redesign costs. Plus, if you have at least three resident employees, you’ll receive an additional SG$10,000 in SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit from late 2026, making it easier to invest in your team’s capabilities.
Growth and Expansion Opportunities
1. Easier Access to Financing
The new SG$1 billion Private Credit Growth Fund will provide more financing options for high-growth businesses. Additionally, the Enterprise Financing Scheme has been enhanced with increased loan caps and broader coverage for mergers and acquisitions.
2. International Expansion Support
If you’re considering overseas expansion, several schemes have been extended:
- The Market Readiness Assistance grant (up to SG$100,000 per new market) continues until March 2026
- The Double Tax Deduction for Internationalisation scheme is extended to December 2030
- The Enterprise Financing Scheme – Trade Loan cap has been permanently increased to SG$10 million
Hiring Support for Diverse Workforce
The government continues to support inclusive hiring practices:
- Extended Senior Employment Credit until 2026 for hiring workers aged 60 and above
- CPF Transition Offset to help manage increased CPF contributions for older workers
- Extended support for hiring former offenders until 2028
Looking Ahead
This year’s Budget demonstrates strong government commitment to supporting small businesses through current challenges while preparing for future growth. The combination of immediate cost relief and long-term transformation support provides a solid foundation for your business development.
As your accounting partner, we’re here to help you maximise these benefits. Whether you need assistance with tax planning or financial strategy, our team is ready to support your business growth journey.
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