Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the MRA Grant Application Form

In today’s globalized economy, expanding beyond domestic markets is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival and growth. For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore, the MRA Grant application form is the first step toward seizing international opportunities.

Why the MRA Grant Matters

The Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant, administered by Enterprise Singapore, provides up to 50% funding support (capped at SGD 100,000 per company per new market). This makes it one of the most accessible financial tools for SMEs exploring global markets like Dubai, the Middle East, or Southeast Asia.

By understanding how to correctly complete the MRA Grant application form, SMEs can fast-track their eligibility and avoid delays in approval.

Key Documents Required for the MRA Grant Application Form

Before filling out the application, SMEs must prepare essential documentation. The supporting documents are critical to proving both eligibility and readiness.

• Company ACRA Business Profile (latest version, dated within 6 months).

• Latest audited financial statements or management accounts.

• Proof of 30% local shareholding by Singapore citizens or PRs.

• Project proposal or business plan describing overseas expansion.

• Vendor quotations for services (e.g., consultancy, trade fairs, digital marketing).

• Company’s GST status and bank details for fund disbursement.

Failure to include these documents often results in application rejection or significant delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the MRA Grant Application Form

The MRA Grant application form is submitted online via the Business Grants Portal (BGP). Below is a detailed breakdown of each step:

Step 1: Log in to the Business Grants Portal (BGP)

• Access the portal using CorpPass.

• Ensure the correct UEN (Unique Entity Number) is registered.

• Select Enterprise Singapore as the grant agency.

Step 2: Select the Right Grant

• From the available options, choose Market Readiness Assistance (MRA).

• Note that this program is distinct from other schemes like the overseas expansion grant or sme start up grants singapore.

Step 3: Provide business information on the MRA Grant Application Form

• Input company details (UEN, GST registration, business activities).

• Upload the ACRA profile and proof of local shareholding.

• Provide revenue and manpower numbers to verify MRA grant enterprise singapore eligibility.

Step 4: Project Details

• Clearly state the overseas market you plan to enter (e.g., Dubai).

• Indicate the scope of activities, such as market promotion, business development, or overseas set-up.

• Explain the business rationale—why this market and how it aligns with growth strategy.

Step 5: Activity Breakdown and Budget

• List MRA supportable activities, such as:

  • Overseas market promotion (exhibitions, PR campaigns).

  • Overseas business development (partner search, lead generation).

  • Overseas market set-up (legal, tax, compliance advisory).

• Provide detailed vendor quotations for each activity.

• Include projected costs and funding support required.

Step 6: Outcome and Impact

• Demonstrate how the project will benefit the company.

• Highlight projected sales, partnerships, or brand visibility in the overseas market.

• Ensure alignment with MRA Grant Enterprise Singapore objectives.

Step 7: Declaration of Vendors

• Declare that selected vendors are not related parties.

• Attach vendor quotations (minimum 2 for each service is recommended).

• Provide evidence that vendors have a good track record in supporting overseas projects.

Step 8: Upload Supporting Documents

• Upload financial statements, bank details, quotations, and project proposals.

• Double-check all files are in PDF format and labeled correctly.

Step 9: Review and Submit

• Review the full MRA Grant application form for accuracy.

• Ensure no sections are incomplete.

• Submit the application through BGP.

After submission, companies can track the application status in the portal. Enterprise Singapore typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to review and approve applications.

Why SMEs Are Expanding to Dubai

Dubai has become a prime target for Singaporean SMEs due to its:

• Strategic location: Gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

• Tax advantages: Business-friendly policies and free zones.

• Global connectivity: World-class logistics and aviation hubs.

• Diverse economy: Opportunities across F&B, e-commerce, fintech, construction, and education.

• International community: Large expatriate population and multicultural environment.

With the backing of the MRA Grant application form, SMEs reduce financial risks while entering Dubai’s competitive market.

Common Mistakes When Filling Out the MRA Grant Application Form

When completing the MRA Grant application form, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore make avoidable mistakes that can delay processing or even lead to rejection. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Overly vague project descriptions: Some businesses simply state “expanding into overseas markets” without providing details on products, target customers, market entry strategies, or specific timelines. ESG typically requires clear evidence and concrete plans.

• Invalid quotations: Enterprise Singapore requires at least two valid quotations from service providers, with clear scopes of work and implementation timelines. Many SMEs submit only one quotation or incomplete documents, which often results in the application being sent back.

• Outdated financial statements: Financial reports must be within the last 12 months. Submitting outdated statements creates delays as SMEs will be asked to resubmit updated documents.

• Unclear proof of MRA grant eligibility: Some companies fail to demonstrate compliance with requirements, such as the minimum 30% local shareholding by Singapore citizens or permanent residents.

Avoiding these mistakes helps SMEs improve their chances of approval and significantly shortens the review process for their MRA Grant application form. For comparison, while other schemes like the overseas expansion grant exist, the MRA remains the most direct and practical option for SMEs targeting markets such as Dubai.

Strategies to Maximize the Benefits of the MRA Grant

• Define clear objectives: Businesses should set precise goals for each supported activity, whether it is overseas promotion, establishing a business presence, or building strategic partnerships. This not only strengthens the application but also makes it easier to measure results later.

• Develop a detailed and realistic plan: A market entry plan with clear milestones, budgets, and expected outcomes increases the likelihood of approval and helps manage expenses effectively. This is especially important when working under programs like the MRA grant enterprise singapore, which require accountability and measurable outcomes.

• Build credibility through transparency: Executing projects as planned and maintaining financial transparency strengthen the company’s credibility with regulators. This also improves the chances of being considered for future support, similar to how sme start up grants singapore help early-stage businesses prove their reliability before scaling abroad.

Completing the MRA Grant application form is the crucial first step for SMEs seeking international expansion. By preparing documents carefully, following each step of the process, and aligning activities with Enterprise Singapore’s objectives, companies can unlock significant funding support.

With cost support, the MRA Grant reduces financial risks and empowers SMEs to establish a strong presence overseas. For many, this is the bridge that connects Singapore’s innovation with global opportunities—starting with Dubai and beyond.

Whether your company is exploring the overseas expansion grant, considering sme start up grants singapore, or pursuing the MRA itself, understanding the MRA Grant application form in detail ensures your expansion journey is well-supported and successful.