IMDA (Infocomm Media Development Authority) focuses on helping Singapore businesses adopt advanced digital technologies. If you need AI, IoT, cloud, or data analytics solutions beyond what PSG pre-approved packages offer, IMDA programmes provide deeper tech support.
This directory covers IMDA’s main programmes for SMEs, what each covers, and how to get started.
Start Here (Quick Pick)
- You need advanced tech solutions (AI, IoT, cloud, data analytics, cybersecurity) beyond basic PSG packages → ADS
- You want expert advice on digital strategy but do not know where to start → CTOaaS
- You are a first-time digital adopter and want free digital tools to get going → SME Go Digital (Start Digital Packs)
- You are a tech vendor looking for government accreditation to sell to enterprises → IMDA Accreditation (not covered in detail here; aimed at tech companies, not SME buyers)
Eligibility & Timing Rules
- Apply before you pay or sign. Any payment, deposit, or signed contract before grant submission makes the expense ineligible. This applies to ADS (submitted via BGP).
- Match your ACRA entity. Vendor quotes and invoices must match your exact registered business name and UEN.
- SME status required. Registered and operating in Singapore, annual turnover under S$100M or fewer than 200 employees, at least 30% local shareholding.
- No double-dipping. The same expense cannot be claimed under both ADS and PSG. Different project components can use different grants.
- CTOaaS has no financial eligibility threshold. Any SME can request a consultation — no grant application needed.
IMDA Programmes
1) Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS)
Use ADS when: you need pre-scoped advanced digital solutions in areas like AI, IoT, cloud, data analytics, or cybersecurity — beyond what standard PSG packages cover.
Good fit examples
- AI-powered demand forecasting or inventory optimisation
- IoT sensor networks for facility monitoring or fleet tracking
- Cloud migration and infrastructure modernisation
- Data analytics dashboards and business intelligence platforms
- Advanced cybersecurity solutions (threat detection, zero-trust architecture)
How much
- Up to 70% of eligible costs (applied via BGP, same portal as PSG)
- Funding cap depends on the specific solution category
When
- Apply before any payment or contract signing
- Processing time: approximately 6—8 weeks (via BGP)
How (fast path)
- Identify the advanced technology area you need (AI, IoT, cloud, data analytics, cybersecurity).
- Check the ADS solution catalogue on the IMDA or GoBusiness website for pre-scoped solutions.
- Get a vendor quote addressed to your ACRA-registered entity name.
- Submit via BGP (Business Grants Portal) with latest financial statements.
- After approval, sign vendor contract and proceed with implementation.
- Submit claim with invoices and proof of deployment.
Where
- See more: Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS)
2) CTO-as-a-Service (CTOaaS)
Use CTOaaS when: you need expert digital strategy advice but lack in-house technical leadership to evaluate technology options.
Good fit examples
- Assessing which digital tools fit your business operations
- Creating a digital transformation roadmap with prioritised milestones
- Evaluating whether to build custom software or buy off-the-shelf solutions
- Reviewing cybersecurity posture and recommending improvements
- Identifying which grants (PSG, ADS, EDG) match your digitalisation plans
How much
- Free. IMDA appoints and funds the tech consultants directly. No cost to the SME.
- Consultations are typically 2—3 sessions covering assessment and recommendations.
When
- No fixed application window — request a consultation at any time
- Consultants are assigned based on availability and industry match
How (fast path)
- Visit the IMDA SME Go Digital page or contact an SME Digital Tech Hub.
- Request a CTOaaS consultation (no BGP submission required).
- IMDA assigns a curated tech consultant matched to your industry.
- Attend consultation sessions to discuss your digital needs and priorities.
- Receive a digital advisory report with recommended solutions and next steps.
Where
- No standalone scheme page. Access CTOaaS through the SME Go Digital programme (see Official Links below).
3) SME Go Digital
Use SME Go Digital when: you are a first-time digital adopter or want a structured path from basic digital tools to advanced solutions.
Good fit examples
- Micro-enterprises that have never used digital tools for accounting, HR, or marketing
- Businesses looking for free digital tools via Start Digital Packs (e.g., digital invoicing, accounting, HR, digital marketing, digital transactions)
- SMEs wanting a guided progression: Start Digital Packs → PSG → ADS
- Companies that need help identifying which IMDA programme fits their stage
How much
- Start Digital Packs: Free for at least 6 months (basic digital tools bundled by IMDA partners)
- PSG and ADS funding accessed separately through BGP (see respective scheme pages)
When
- Start Digital Packs available on an ongoing basis
- No BGP application needed for Start Digital Packs — sign up directly with participating vendors
How (fast path)
- Visit the SME Go Digital page on the IMDA website.
- Assess your current digitalisation stage (starting, growing, or advanced).
- For beginners: sign up for a Start Digital Pack with a participating vendor.
- For growing SMEs: explore PSG pre-approved solutions via GoBusiness.
- For advanced needs: consider ADS or request a CTOaaS consultation.
Where
- No standalone scheme page. SME Go Digital is a programme umbrella (see Official Links below).
IMDA Programmes at a Glance
| Programme | Funding | Cost to SME | Best For | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADS | Up to 70% | Co-pay remaining 30%+ | Advanced tech (AI, IoT, cloud, data analytics) | BGP submission |
| CTOaaS | Fully funded by IMDA | Free | Digital strategy advisory | Request via IMDA |
| SME Go Digital (Start Digital Packs) | Free tools for 6+ months | Free | First-time digital adopters | Sign up with vendor |
Common Pitfalls with IMDA Programmes
1. Confusing ADS with PSG
- Both are submitted via BGP, but ADS covers advanced technology solutions (AI, IoT, cloud) while PSG covers standard pre-approved IT packages. Check which catalogue your solution falls under before applying.
2. Paying before ADS approval
- ADS follows the same rules as other BGP grants. Do not sign contracts, make deposits, or pay invoices before receiving your Letter of Offer.
3. Skipping CTOaaS when unsure
- Many SMEs jump straight to buying solutions without understanding their actual needs. CTOaaS is free and helps you avoid spending on the wrong tools.
4. Treating SME Go Digital as a standalone grant
- SME Go Digital is a programme umbrella, not a grant you apply for. It connects you to PSG, ADS, CTOaaS, and Start Digital Packs. There is no single “SME Go Digital” application form.
5. Assuming Start Digital Packs are permanent
- Start Digital Packs are free for a limited period (typically 6 months). After that, you switch to a paid plan or explore PSG-supported alternatives.
6. Overlapping ADS and PSG claims
- If a solution appears in both the PSG and ADS catalogues, you cannot claim under both. Pick the one with the better funding rate for your situation.
Related Guides & Resources
Decision Guides
- PSG vs EDG vs ADS Comparison — choose between pre-approved, custom, and advanced digital solutions
- Digitalisation Starter Guide — step-by-step path for first-time digital adopters
Application Guides
- Grant Pitfalls Guide — common mistakes across all grants
- Singapore Grants Glossary — key terms and definitions
- Corppass Setup Guide — how to access BGP
Scheme Details
Official Links
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