Singapore is ranked fourth in the global startup ranking

Singapore has moved up to fourth place in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index from last year’s fifth place.

According to the ranking, published by research platform StartupBlink, Singapore is just behind the United States, United Kingdom and Israel. Since 2020, the city-state has advanced 12 positions, which is the fastest rise among global peers.

Key advantages for foreign small and medium enterprises (SMEs) include a highly developed funding ecosystem and large infrastructure. In 2024, Singapore secured nearly 60% of all venture capital deals in Southeast Asia, with reported totals reaching US$4.8 billion or SG$6.7 billion, depending on the source. Over 500 venture capital firms, including major international players, are active in the country.

To further drive investment into strategic industries such as fintech, AI, foodtech and advanced manufacturing, the government has topped up its Startup SG Equity scheme by SG$440 million, raising total co-investment funding to more than SG$1 billion. The program, jointly managed by Enterprise Singapore and the Economic Development Board (EDB), focuses on capital-intensive, research-heavy sectors where foreign startups often face funding challenges elsewhere.

In addition, Enterprise Singapore and EDB recently launched SG Growth Capital, a joint investment platform aimed at enhancing venture building and long-term financing capabilities for high-potential startups.

Beyond funding, Singapore supports foreign founders with access to a wide network of over 220 incubators, accelerators and venture builders. Many of these initiatives actively engage international companies through programs such as the Global Innovation Alliance, which connects startups to more than 40 overseas markets for testing, collaboration and commercial expansion.

Tailored visa pathways like Tech@SG and EntrePass also enable foreign professionals and founders to establish a base and grow operations in Singapore with minimal friction.

Looking ahead, Singapore’s flagship startup competition named SLINGSHOT 2025 offers even more incentive for foreign innovators. With grant prizes raised by nearly 80% to over SG$2 million, participants gain direct access to mentorship, regional exposure and investor connections through events like SWITCH.