Key Takeaways
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Introduction
For many companies, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), investing in employee training and development builds both capability and resilience. However, the cost of developing staff skills can place pressure on limited budgets.
The Singapore Government offers a wide range of initiatives and multiple layers of support that make professional development more achievable.
These training grants for employers help subsidise course fees, provide absentee payroll funding, and encourage companies to embed learning as part of their long-term growth strategy.
Whether you manage a small team or a growing enterprise, these grants can make training more affordable and impactful.
This guide will help you understand the different training grants for employers, how they work, and how to maximise their benefits. It also outlines practical steps to align your organisation’s learning goals with national initiatives that promote innovation and sustainable growth.
Key Training Grants for Employers & SMEs
Singapore offers several initiatives that help businesses strengthen workforce skills. These training grants for employers make employee development affordable and accessible for companies of all sizes, from start-ups to established organisations. Each scheme supports the national goal of building a future-ready workforce through continuous learning.
Below are key training grants that businesses can explore to enhance staff capability and long-term growth.
| Grant | Funding | Eligibility | Application Platform |
| SkillsFuture Course Fee Subsidy | Up to 70% course fee subsidy | Employers sponsoring Singapore Citizens or PRs | SWDA |
| SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) | Up to S$10,000 one-off credit | Eligible employers with active employees and CPF contributions | OurWorkforce |
| SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) | Up to 90% subsidy for eligible trainees | Employees aged 40 and above (Singapore Citizens) | SWDA |
| SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant (WDG) | Up to 70% funding support for training and job redesign (to be rolled out in phases from 2026) | Companies undertaking workforce transformation or training employees under approved programmes | (to be rolled out in phases in 2026. |
| Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS) | Up to 90% subsidy | SMEs registered or incorporated in Singapore with an employment size of not more than 200 or an annual sales turnover of not more than S$100 million. Trainees must be Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents, and courses must be fully employer-sponsored. | Directly through SWDA-appointed Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres or approved training providers offering SWDA-supported certifiable courses |
| Career Conversion Programmes (CCP) | Course fee and salary support | Employers registered or incorporated in Singapore that hire or reskill mid-career individuals under Place-and-Train, Job Redesign (JR) Reskilling, or Attach-and-Train arrangements, with a full-time employment or attachment commitment. | SWDA |
| Absentee Payroll Funding | Fixed rate of S$4.50 per training hour, capped at S$100,000 per organisation per calendar year | Organisations registered or incorporated in Singapore with employees who are Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, or Long Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) holders. Courses must be SWDA-supported and fully employer-sponsored. | OurWorkforce |
| NTUC Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant | Up to 70% of qualifying costs, including in-house training (S$9/hour) and external non-SWDA-supported courses (up to 70% of course fees). Funding caps may apply. | Entities legally registered or incorporated in Singapore, including companies, societies, and non-profit organisations. Projects must be tied to workforce or business transformation and achieve outcomes stated in the Letter of Award (LOA). | e2i Grant Portal |
1. SkillsFuture Course Fee Subsidy
The SkillsFuture Course Fee Subsidy helps employers reduce the cost of training employees in Singapore. Depending on the employer type and course category, companies can receive up to 90% subsidy on course fees.
This support encourages businesses to invest in workforce upskilling, digital transformation, and industry-relevant skills.
Funding Support
- Non-SME: Up to 70% depends on course category and status
- SME: Up to 90% depends on course category and status
Funding Model
SkillsFuture Course Fee Subsidy works on a direct fee subsidy model:
- Employers only pay the remaining subsidised amount
- There is no reimbursement claim process in most cases
Eligible Employer
- Be locally registered in Singapore
- Sponsor employees for approved training programmes
- Enrol eligible employees
- Singapore Citizens
- Permanent Residents
- Long-Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) holder
Eligible Course Category
- SWDA-appointed Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres
- SkillsFuture-approved certifiable courses
How to Apply
Employers can submit training applications through MySkillsFuture portal. The application is typically done when registering employees for the approved course.
2. SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)
The SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) helps employers further reduce the remaining out-of-pocket training costs after other subsidies have been applied.
Funding Support
- Credit Amount: Up to $10,000 per company (one-off)
- Cost Coverage: Up to 90% of qualifying out-of-pocket expenses
Funding Model
SFEC works as a credit offset system:
- Credit offsets up to 90% of the remaining out-of-pocket cost after other subsidies
- For supported programmes, final claims must be submitted to the relevant agency after completion
- For training courses, claims can only be submitted after the course has been completed. Approved claims will be reimbursed to the company’s corporate PayNow account
Submit your SFEC claim here.
This reimbursement process applies to the current SFEC. Once the redesigned scheme takes effect on 1 December 2026, employers can expect the credit to offset costs upfront rather than through post-course claims.
Eligible Employer
- Have at least 3 active employees
- Make regular CPF contributions
Eligible Activities
- Workforce transformation
Skills framework-aligned courses - Enterprise transformation programmes
View all the SFEC-supported programmes here.
How to Apply
Eligible employers are typically notified directly by the government via email. No application is required.
Employers who qualify will be able to see the S$10,000 credit when they log in using their Corppass here.
Latest Update (2026)
The current SFEC closes on 30 November 2026. Any unused credit is forfeited after that date, so employers with a remaining balance should plan their last training claims now, ensuring the final day of training falls on or before 30 November 2026.
A redesigned SFEC launches the very next day, on 1 December 2026, issuing a fresh $10,000 credit to eligible companies. This is a separate allocation. Using up your current SFEC balance before November does not reduce what you receive under the new scheme.
Changes to SFEC from Second Half of 2026
| Feature | Current SFEC (until 30 Nov 2026) | Redesigned SFEC (from 1 Dec 2026) |
| Credit Amount | Up to $10,000 (one-off) | Fresh $10,000 credit for eligible companies |
| Disimbursement | Reimbursement after course completion | Upfront offset at point of enrolment via a digital wallet |
| Cost Coverage | Up to 90% of qualifying out-of-pocket expenses | Up to 90% of out-of-pocket costs (excluding GST) |
| Credit Access | Existing claim process | Credit issues through an online wallet |
| Expiry | Remaining balance usable until new scheme launches | New credit issued when redesigned scheme begins |
3. SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES)
The SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES) recognises that mid-career workers may face greater challenges when upgrading their skills or transitioning to new roles.
By offering higher subsidies, the programme encourages both employees and employers to invest in reskilling and career progression.
Funding Support
- Courses offered by SWDA-appointed CET Centres: Up to 90% subsidy of course fees
- SkillsFuture-approved certifiable skills courses: Up to 70% subsidy of course fees
*MCES is an individual-based subsidy but employers still benefit when sponsoring eligible employees
Funding Model
MCES works on a direct fee subsidy model:
- Employers only pay the remaining subsidised amount
- There is no reimbursement or complex claim process
Eligible Employer
Employees sponsored for training must:
Be Singapore Citizens
Be aged 40 years and above
Eligible Course Category
SWDA-appointed Continuing Education and Training (CET) Centres
SkillsFuture-approved certifiable skills courses
These programmes are typically supported by SWDA and aligned with industry skills frameworks.
How to Apply
Upon course registration, all applicable course subsidies are automatically deducted from the full course fee.
No application is necessary.
You only need to pay the nett course fee and GST to the training provider.
4. SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant (WDG)
The SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant (Job Redesign+) (WDG JR+) supports companies that want to redesign jobs, improve productivity, and strengthen workforce capabilities.
Businesses can receive funding support for workforce transformation projects, including consultancy, internal capability building, and workforce technology adoption.
Funding Support
- SMEs: Up to 70% of project cost & cap at $150,000 per enterprise
- Non-SMEs: Up to 50% of project cost and cap at $150,000 per enterprise
Funding Model
The grant operates under a nett fee payment model.
Companies will pay the co-funded portion of the project cost directly to the consultants.
The government grant portion will be paid directly to the consultant after project milestones are completed and required documents are submitted.
Eligible Employer
- Registered or incorporated in Singapore
- Operating in Singapore
- Employ at least three local employees (Singapore citizens or permanent residents)
At the point of application, companies must not have:
- Made a payment for JR-related consultancy service, or
- Signed a contract or purchase order with a consultant or third party for job redesign services
Eligible Areas of Workforce Transformation
- Workforce consultancy – up to $50,000
- Capability Building Initiatives – up to $60,000
- Workforce Tech Solutions – up to $90,000
How to Apply
Employers can apply for a WDG grant through the Business Grants Portal (BGP).
5. Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS)
The Enhanced Training Support for SMEs (ETSS) helps SMEs build capable teams and upskill employees while reducing the financial and operational burden of staff training.
The programme is part of SWDA’s suite of business support initiatives.
Funding Support
- CET Centre courses & CET courses offered by Autonomous Universities, Polytechnics, ITE, NIEC: Up to 90% of project cost
- Certifiable courses conducted by External Training Providers: Up to 70% of project cost
- In-house certifiable training: $15 per training hour
Funding Model
ETSS works on a direct course fee subsidy model:
- Employers only pay the remaining subsidised amount
- There is no reimbursement or complex claim process
Eligible Employer
- Registered or incorporated in Singapore
- Employment size of not more than 200 or with annual sales turnover of not more than $100 million
SME-sponsored Trainees:
- Must be Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents
- Courses have to be fully paid for by the employer
Eligible Course Category
- Courses offered by SWDA-appointed CET Centres
- Approved training providers offering SWDA-supported certifiable courses
How to Apply
Employers can submit applications through SWDA-appointed training providers.
6. Career Conversion Programmes (CCP)
The Career Conversion Programmes (CCP) helps employers broaden their talent pool or transform their workforce by reskilling mid-career new hires or existing employees into growth job roles with long-term career prospects.
Funding Support
- Salary Support: Up to 90% of monthly salary for mid-career individuals undergoing reskilling
- Course Fees: Included in programme cost, often covered under the CCP agreement with SWDA
Funding Model
- Employers pay salaries for employees during reskilling
- SWDA reimburses up to 90% of the monthly salary, according to programme agreements
- Training fees may also be covered under SWDA funding or partner arrangements
Eligible Employer
- Registered or incorporated in Singapore
- Commit to work with SWDA or appointed programme partners on administrative requirements
- Commit to CCP training arrangements for selected employees
Eligible Course Category
- Place-and-Train: Employee is hired and trained simultaneously
- Attach-and-Train: Employee is attached to a company for training purposes
- Job Redesign (JR) Reskilling: Existing employees are reskilled into new roles
How to Apply
Employers can explore available CCPs via the CCP Portal and register your interest. The respective Programme Partner will follow-up on your interest.
For companies who are interested in taking part in NTUC’s e2i CCPs, click here.
7. Absentee Payroll Funding
The Absentee Payroll Funding helps employers offset manpower costs when sending employees for training courses supported by SWDA.
It allows SMEs and larger organisations to continue workforce training without major operational disruptions.
Funding Support
- Funding Rate: S$4.50 per hour of attended training
- Funding Cap: Up to S$100,000 per organisation per calendar year
Funding Model
Unlike course fee subsidies, AP funding is reimbursement-based.
- AP funding is applied as reimbursement after course completion
- Employers are reimbursed directly to their corporate PayNow account
Eligible Employer
- Be registered or incorporated in Singapore
- Make CPF contributions for the employees being claimed
- Employees must be Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, or LTVP+ holders and fully sponsored for the training
Eligible Course Category
- SWDA-supported courses listed in the Course Directory for Business
- May include CET Centre courses, certifiable courses, and Career Conversion Programmes, depending on SWDA eligibility
How to Apply
- Inform your training provider that you wish to claim AP funding. They will start the claim process after course completion.
- Wait for an email from SWDA to complete your AP application.
- Log in to Claim Absentee Payroll funding.
- Navigate to the ‘AP Funding’ tab.
- Declare your employees’ hourly salary information (before CPF deduction).
- Upon approval, funding will be disbursed to your corporate PayNow account within approximately two and a half weeks.
8. NTUC Company Training Committee (CTC) Grant
NTUC CTC grant supports organisations implementing workforce transformation or business transformation projects. This funding is intended to support skills upgrading for employees, job redesign initiatives, and training required for transformation projects.
Funding Support
- In-house Training: $9 per training hour
- External Non-SWDA Courses: Up to 70% of course fees
- Overall Funding Cap: Subject to project-specific caps
Funding Model
Unlike course fee subsidies, NTUC CTC is reimbursement-based.
- The employer or organisation pays the training costs upfront
- Funding is reimbursed after training completion and verification of outcomes, subject to the Letter of Award (LOA) and applicable funding caps
Eligible Employer
The following entities registered in Singapore are eligible to apply:
- Companies
- Societies
- Non-profit organisations
- Charities
- Social service agencies
Eligible Course Category
- Training: In-house or external courses (non-SWDA-supported) tied to the transformation project.
- Equipment & Software: Related OEM or software training to support job redesign.
- Consultancy Services
How to Apply
- If you are a non-unionised company, fill in the form at e2i.sg/ctcenquiries
- If you are a unionised company, contact your union
- If you are a company with SME Partners, email to sme@ntuc.org.sg
*Note: The application deadline for CTC Grant has been extended to 31 Mar 2028.
These initiatives reflect Singapore’s continued support for businesses in workforce development.
By leveraging government training grants for employers, companies can effectively manage training expenses while equipping employees with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform confidently in a changing business landscape.
Key Training Grants for Employers & SMEs
1. Identify Business and Workforce Needs
Begin by reviewing your organisation’s training priorities. Identify which teams or roles would benefit most from upskilling and match those needs with suitable grants. For example, SMEs pursuing digital transformation may find the SkillsFuture or Enhanced Training Support for SMEs schemes most relevant.
2. Select Eligible Courses and Providers
Select programmes approved by SWDA. Many recognised providers, such as OOm Institute, offer courses aligned with these frameworks to ensure funding eligibility and practical learning outcomes.
3. Register Employees and Submit Applications
Applications are typically submitted through official portals, such as MySkillsFuture or the Enterprise Portal for Jobs and Skills (EPJS). Employers will need to provide accurate company information, trainee details, and supporting documents such as ACRA business profiles or employment records for verification.
4. Receive Acknowledgement and Monitor Application Status
After submission, employers receive an acknowledgement notice. Processing times vary depending on the grant, but progress updates are available through the same portals. Monitoring the application ensures training schedules stay on track and funding is disbursed smoothly.
5. Make Payment and Claim Reimbursement
Once training is completed, employers make the initial payment to the training provider before submitting claims for reimbursement. Supporting documents such as invoices, attendance records, and proof of payment are required. Some grants may also request evaluation reports or course feedback.
6. Maintain Proper Record
Keep all relevant records, including course certificates, payroll information, and claims documents, for future audits. Good recordkeeping ensures compliance and simplifies future applications for training grants for employers in Singapore.
Applying for these grants not only helps businesses manage training costs but also encourages a structured approach to workforce development. With a wide range of corporate training grants available, employers can strategically invest in employee growth and strengthen their long-term competitiveness.
How to Maximise Your Training Grants
Securing funding is only the beginning.
To fully leverage the benefits of training grants for employers, companies should plan how these resources align with their broader talent development strategy.
Effective implementation ensures that funding leads to measurable improvements in performance, innovation, and employee engagement.
A. Align Training with Business Goals
Training should directly support your organisation’s strategic objectives. Identify the skills most essential for growth, whether in digitalisation, leadership, or technical expertise, and prioritise programmes that strengthen these areas. Aligning grant-supported training with business goals ensures that every investment contributes to tangible outcomes.
B. Combine Different Grants Where Possible
Some training grants for employers can be used together for greater savings. For instance, the SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) can complement course fee subsidies or absentee payroll support. Understanding how these schemes work in combination helps businesses maximise funding and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
C. Encourage Continuous Learning
Short-term courses deliver immediate value, but ongoing learning drives long-term growth. Establish structured development plans that allow employees to upgrade their skills over time. A consistent learning culture enables teams to remain resilient, adaptable, and prepared for change.
D. Evaluate Training Effectiveness
After each programme, assess how well new skills translate into job performance. Managers can track improvements in productivity, communication, or problem-solving. These insights help refine future training plans and support stronger applications for training grants for employers.
E. Collaborate with Training Partners
Partnering with an experienced corporate training provider ensures that programmes meet industry standards and remain relevant to evolving business needs. Working closely with training providers also simplifies the process of verifying eligibility, applying for grants, and managing claims.
F. Build an Internal Learning Culture
Encourage informal learning through mentorship, team sharing, and on-the-job practice. These activities enable employees to apply new knowledge in their daily work and promote collaboration across departments. A learning-oriented environment keeps staff engaged and motivated to grow.
When applied strategically, government training grants for employers not only reduce costs but also strengthen a company’s ability to adapt, innovate, and compete in a changing economy.
Embark on Corporate Training with OOm Institute
A strong workforce grows through continuous learning and development. With accessible training grants for employers, businesses in Singapore can upskill their teams and stay competitive in an evolving market.
OOm Institute partners with organisations to align workforce development with national initiatives. As a recognised corporate training company, it offers government-approved courses eligible for SWDA funding.
Each programme focuses on building practical capabilities in communication, leadership, and digital transformation.
To learn more about our professional training solutions that support sustainable workforce growth, contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are training grants for employers?
Training grants for employers are financial schemes that subsidise the cost of employee development programmes. They are designed to help businesses enhance their workforce capabilities without bearing the full expense of training.
Who is eligible for corporate training grants in Singapore?
Most employers registered in Singapore with active Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions for employees are eligible. Specific eligibility may vary depending on the type of training grants and the company’s size, sector, or participation in SkillsFuture initiatives.
How much funding support can SMEs receive?
Funding support can range from 50% to 90% of course fees, depending on the scheme. Some training grants for employers also include additional salary or absentee payroll support for employees attending training.
How can small businesses apply for training grants?
Small enterprises can apply through recognised platforms such as SWDA and OurWorkforce. These portals outline the steps and documentation required to access training grants for small businesses.
Which types of courses are eligible for training grants?
SWDA-funded courses typically meet the qualification requirements. These include a wide range of topics such as leadership, digital transformation, communications, and technical skills development.
What documentation do employers need to claim grants?
Employers usually need to submit course invoices, attendance records, payment receipts, and staff details. Some grants may also require proof of CPF contributions or business registration.
How long does it take to receive grant approval?
Approval timelines vary depending on the specific training grants for employers. On average, applications are processed within a few weeks, provided all documents are accurate and complete.
Are foreign employees eligible for training grants in Singapore?
Most grants are targeted at Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. However, employers may explore other initiatives under OurWorkforce that support training for foreign staff when aligned with sector-specific needs.
How often can a company apply for training grants in a year?
There is no fixed limit, as long as each course or programme meets the eligibility criteria and the company complies with grant conditions. Employers are encouraged to plan their training schedules strategically to maximise the consistent use of available funding.
What happens if an employee leaves after training funded by grants?
If an employee resigns shortly after completing a funded course, employers are generally not required to repay the grant. However, it is advisable to establish internal policies, such as service periods after training, to ensure fair use of resources and commitment to professional growth.
