Singapore’s startup ecosystem has achieved remarkable progress in global rankings. According to the 2025 StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index, Singapore climbed to 4th place globally, up from 5th in 2024 and 16th in 2020, reflecting its rapid growth as an innovation hub. In addition, the 2025 Startup Genome Global Startup Ecosystem Report ranks Singapore 9th globally, with the ecosystem valued at an impressive $185 billion, far exceeding the global average of $26.15 billion. These rankings underscore Singapore’s dynamic environment for startups, driven by strong infrastructure, government support, and a focus on deep-tech innovation.
In this edition, we have discussed what makes Singapore stand out and how it compares to other popular global business hubs.
A Global Comparison of Where Singapore Stands
- While Singapore stands in the 9th position of the Global Startup Ecosystem Rankings, San Francisco Bay leads with over $1.2 trillion in ecosystem value and $ 54 billion in early-stage funding.
- New York City follows at $900 billion in ecosystem valuation and $48 billion in early-stage rounds.
- London ranks third with $820 billion ecosystem value and $42 billion in early-stage investments.
Despite its smaller size, Singapore’s ecosystem looks dynamic, particularly in deep-tech innovation. With $4.4 billion in early-stage funding, it’s placed high above the global average.
Government Support That Fuels Innovation
As Singapore emerges as a prime destination attracting startups, let’s understand the role of its government behind this success. The current startup ecosystem of the country is the result of a structured investment, collaborative innovation, and strategic global positioning.
Some of the key initiatives taken by the government of Singapore are:
| Initiative | Benefits for Startups |
| RIE 2025 Plan | $25 to 28 billion investment from 2021 to 2025 for research and enterprise |
| Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Innovation | An additional $2.27 billion allocated for emerging industry sectors |
| AI Funding | Over $1 billion pledged, supported by Google, AWS, NVIDIA |
| Deep-Tech Co-investment Pool | Additional S$440 million in funding to drive growth of deep tech through partnerships with prominent global VCs |
| AI Centres of Excellence | Establishment of 26 AI Centres of Excellence to drive innovation and collaboration across various industries. |
| Global Innovation Ecosystem | Platforms like the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) and Open Innovation Network (OIN) facilitate international partnerships and market access. |
Key Sectors Benefitting from Singapore’s Startup Ecosystem
Singapore is betting big on sectors shaping the future.
| Sector | Growth Potential |
| Life Sciences | Startups like Lucence, KYAN Technologies, and Callio Therapeutics are partnering with Mayo Clinic and raising significant venture capital. |
| Biomedical Innovation | The Geneo life sciences and innovation cluster at Singapore Science Park has been developed with an investment of S$1.37 billion (~US$1 billion), adding 180,600 square meters of gross floor area, including 80,000 square meters dedicated to biomedical R&D The new Geneo Hub at Singapore Science Park will feature 80,000 sqm of biotech-focused R&D space, with $785 million investment. |
| AI & Climate Tech | Singapore boasts 4,500+ tech startups, 510+ VC firms, and 220+ incubators, with massive growth in AI and sustainable technologies. |
Quick Checklist To Incorporate A Startup In Singapore
Here’s the final checklist for entrepreneurs, and startup owners planning to launch a business in Singapore. Follow this step-by-step guide to incorporating a startup in Singapore.
- Choose a business structure
- Register your company name with ACRA
- Appoint a local director and company secretary
- Must have registered Office in Singapore
- Prepare the constitution for your company
- Register online via BizFile+
- Open a corporate bank account
- Apply for relevant business licenses or grants
As Singapore makes its way into the global top ten destinations for startups, entrepreneurs and business owners are scouting for the right partner. The IMC Group continues to be one of the top teams of professionals, helping global brands incorporate their businesses in Singapore and establish their entities in the progressive startup ecosystem here. From selecting the business name to registering with the ACRA and corporate banking account setup to providing support for ongoing compliance, the experts offer a comprehensive range of services.
With a professional team on the side, startups can confidently tap into the booming commercial environment in Singapore.
IMC Group