As part of Singapore’s SG60 innovation growth strategy, the government is providing large-scale funding for AI and deep tech R&D, while global VC Antler has invested $7.4 million in Southeast Asian AI startups, accelerating the development of the startup ecosystem.
Funding Scale and Investment Status
The Singapore government announced an additional S$3 billion top-up to the National Productivity Fund through its 2025 budget, with significant portions concentrated on innovative technology sectors including AI, R&D, and clean energy. Simultaneously, Singapore-based global early-stage venture capital firm Antler invested $7.4 million in Southeast Asian startups in the first half of 2025, with $2.8 million specifically allocated to seven AI companies.
Antler’s ‘AI Disrupt’ program operates a streamlined investment process that provides up to $400,000 in pre-seed funding to individual startups within just 4 weeks. Additionally, the firm offers potential investment of up to $10 million to fuel growth through Series C, with ongoing support to refine strategy and prepare for future fundraising.
Eligibility Criteria and Target Recipients
The government support programs primarily target domestic and international research institutions and startups conducting AI, big data, and deep tech research. Priority is given to projects that emphasize practical solution development and commercialization potential, contributing to Singapore’s economic growth through innovative technology development.
For Antler, the focus is on AI startups with a working MVP or early market traction. The program offers an immersive 5-10 week residency in Singapore’s vibrant startup hub, providing direct mentorship from successful founders, dedicated coaching from GPs, and founder-friendly terms.
Application Process and Support Methods
Government R&D support follows a multi-stage review process through the National Research Foundation (NRF) and Economic Development Board (EDB). After submitting research proposals, projects undergo comprehensive evaluation based on technical merit, business viability, and potential impact, with selected projects receiving staged funding alongside performance monitoring.
Antler’s AI Disrupt program requires online application followed by a selection process to participate in the Singapore-based residency. Participants receive dedicated mentoring along with cloud infrastructure credits and essential startup services including legal and accounting support.
Effective Utilization Strategies and Success Cases
Singapore’s systematic innovation ecosystem support is yielding results. A*STAR-led deep tech research projects are achieving real-world commercialization, particularly gaining global competitiveness in semiconductors, biomedical, and sustainability sectors.
Since launching its first Singapore program in 2018, Antler has built a portfolio of 1,299 companies. Recent success includes investments in security AI companies like AppSecAI. Despite an overall slowdown in Southeast Asian venture investment, the firm’s concentrated AI investments continue to drive regional innovation ecosystem activation.
