R&D Incentives, Grants or Subsidies in Singapore
The Singapore government offers a variety of incentives to support research and development (R&D) activities in the country. These incentives include tax deductions, grants, and subsidies.
Tax Deductions
The most significant R&D incentive in Singapore is the R&D Tax Deduction Scheme. This scheme allows companies to claim a tax deduction of up to 250% of their qualifying R&D expenses incurred in Singapore. This has been recently enhanced in Budget 2023, allowing an even higher deduction of 400% for the first S$400,000 of qualifying R&D expenditure per year. This scheme encourages companies to invest in R&D activities and helps to offset the costs of innovation.
Grants
The Singapore government also offers a number of grants to support R&D activities. These grants are typically awarded to companies that are working on projects that are aligned with the government's strategic priorities. Some of the most well-known R&D grants in Singapore include:
The Research, Innovation and Capability Development (R&D-I&C) Grant: This grant supports companies that are undertaking R&D projects in a wide range of areas, including science and technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
The Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS): This scheme is part of the R&D Tax Measure and helps companies defray some of their qualifying R&D expenses.
The Maritime Innovation and Technology (MINT) Fund: This fund supports the development of innovative maritime technologies in Singapore.
Subsidies
In addition to tax deductions and grants, the Singapore government also offers a number of subsidies to support R&D activities. These subsidies are typically used to offset the costs of specific R&D projects. Some of the most well-known R&D subsidies in Singapore include:
The Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) program: This program provides funding to companies that are collaborating with foreign research institutions on R&D projects.
The Startup SG Equity Scheme: This scheme provides funding to startups that are developing innovative products or services.
These are just a few of the many R&D incentives that are available in Singapore. The Singapore government is committed to promoting R&D activity in the country, and these incentives are designed to make Singapore an attractive location for companies to conduct their R&D activities.
For more information on R&D incentives in Singapore, you can visit the websites of the following organizations:
Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB): https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/grants/incentives-and-schemes.html
Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS): https://www.iras.gov.sg/
What Qualifies for R&D Relief
To qualify for R&D relief under the R&D Tax Deduction Scheme in Singapore, your project needs to meet several criteria set by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). Here's a breakdown of the key requirements:
Project Objectives:
Aims to achieve one of the following:
Acquire new knowledge in the field of science or technology.
Create new products, processes, or materials.
Improve existing products or processes.
Technical Uncertainty and Novelty:
Involves overcoming technical challenges or risks that aren't readily apparent based on existing knowledge.
The project outcome shouldn't be obvious beforehand, requiring a degree of experimentation and innovation.
Systematic Investigation and Experimentation:
Follows a structured approach to research and development, involving planning, data collection, analysis, and testing.
Relies on experimentation and iterative processes to refine the solution.
Activities that Qualify:
Research and testing
Data collection and analysis
Prototype development
Simulations and modeling
Technical feasibility studies
Activities that Don't Qualify (Examples):
Routine testing or quality control
Routine data collection
Market research
Sales and marketing activities
Financial research
Additional Considerations:
The R&D project must be related to your company's core business.
You must be the beneficiary of the R&D activities, meaning you bear the financial burden and own the resulting intellectual property.
The R&D work can be performed in-house or outsourced.
For a more detailed understanding, refer to the IRAS e-Tax Guide on Research and Development Tax Measures: https://www.iras.gov.sg/taxes/corporate-income-tax/income-deductions-for-companies/business-expenses/research-development-(r-d)-tax-measures
Remember:
The focus is on innovative projects that contribute to scientific or technological advancement.
Maintain proper documentation to support your R&D claims.
How Bestar can Help
R&D Incentives, Grants or Subsidies in Singapore
Bestar can be a valuable asset for companies in Singapore looking to maximize their benefit from the government's R&D programs. Here's how we can help:
Understanding Eligibility:
R&D incentive programs can be complex, with specific requirements and limitations. Bestar has in-depth knowledge of these programs and can assess your projects to determine if they qualify for R&D tax deductions, grants, or subsidies.
Maximizing Claims:
Documentation and Recordkeeping:
Proper documentation is crucial for a successful R&D claim. Bestar can guide you on the types of records you need to maintain, such as staff time sheets, material costs, and project reports.
Preparing Applications:
Applying for R&D grants can involve complex procedures and paperwork. Bestar can assist you in completing applications and ensuring they meet all the necessary requirements.
Liaising with Authorities:
In case of any queries or audits from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), Bestar can represent you and ensure smooth communication.
Staying Updated:
R&D incentive programs can change frequently. Bestar keeps ourselves updated on the latest regulations and ensure you're claiming all the benefits available under the current programs.
Overall, Bestar can save you time, money, and effort by ensuring you take full advantage of the government's incentives to support your R&D activities.