Industry associations can now get a grant to take the lead in envisioning and shaping their industry.

For who?

Singapore industry associations must:

• represent a key industry (i.e. an industry that contributes significantly to the economy and has good growth potential)
• have a sizeable membership representing the industry
• have a strong track record in helping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

For what?

Under LEAD, industry associations can get a grant to defray the costs of developing an industry roadmap with development projects that can be implemented for the entire industry.

• Development projects may be in the areas of technology, infrastructure, manpower and expertise, business collaborations and R&D, and consultancy.
• The proposal:
  • must be new and able to be completed within 3 years
  • should be well thought-out and contribute significantly to the industry (e.g. by revenue, job creation or development of new business opportunities)
  • open for participation by SMEs including non-association members

How much?

LEAD funds up to 70% of eligible costs. Eligible costs include:

• Manpower-related costs
  E.g. training costs, project members’ salaries, economy airfare and cost of living allowances.
• Equipment and materials
  E.g. industrial equipment, materials and consumables, hardware and software.
• Professional services
  E.g. consultancy and sub-contracting.
• Business development costs
  E.g. marketing costs, participation or organisation of industry conferences.
• Intellectual property costs
  E.g. licensing, royalties and technology patent costs.

Things to note

• Assessment of project and eligible expenses is on a case-by-case basis.