Enterprise Singapore (fka SPRING) Capability Development Grant (CDG) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Enterprise Singapore CDG (Capability Development Grant) has officially ended on 24th October.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding the new grant, EDG (Enterprise Development Grant).
NOTE: The information below is outdated and strictly meant for reference.
First off, we have implemented Enterprise Singapore CDG (previously known as SPRING Singapore CDG) for a few clients.
And there are some questions on Capability Development Grant (CDG) which are bugging our clients.
And we thought it would nice to have them here for all to understand.
When is CDG ending?
It is official now. According to the latest information on ESG's website, the closing date for all applications will on 24th October 2018 at 6pm. For those who are interested in engaging us before the deadline, please call us directly at 6219 2925.
What is CDG?
As the words suggest, Capability Development Grant (CDG) is about developing your company's internal capabilities. Basically, through CDG, we hope we can impart to your people skills sets and bring certain systems and processes to your organisation. We really want to bring your company to the next level. Our focus right now is on the areas of branding, business model transformation and human resource development.
How much funding can I get?
You can get funding up to 70% if your project is approved!
How much is the project?
That really depends on the scope of work. Each company is very different in size and makeup as well as their needs.
Are there any guidelines to the project sum?
Yes, there are!
For projects less than S$45k, which means claims of S$30k and below, there is a simplified application process. You need to only answer 5 questions.
For projects more than S$45k, which means claims above S$30k, you need to submit a project proposal. This proposal is in addition to the consultant's proposal. Click here for the CDG Project Proposal Guide.
When does CDG end?
According to Annual Budget 2018, CDG will end around 30th June 2018. It will be replaced by Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) which will be administered by a new statutory board called Enterprise Singapore (which is a merger of SPRING and IE Singapore).
Am I missing out if I do not apply for CDG assistance?
Yes you are! So make sure you utilise the scheme to further develop your business capabilities! At present, Enterprise Singapore's funding support of up to 90% would be effective until 30 June 2018.
Which area should I look into?
Good question. We are specialists in branding and believe that this area is paramount to your organisation's future success. Other areas include business model transformation and business processes.
Am I eligible for CDG?
To be eligible, you are required to
1. Be registered and operating in Singapore
2. Have at least 30% local shareholding
3. Have group annual sales turnover ≤ S$100m or group employment of ≤200 employees.
As you can see, most SMEs would meet these criteria.
So, are Start-ups eligible for CDG?
No, startups will not be eligible for CDG. BUT if you are a startup, you can try for StartupSG Founder.
How long does a typical CDG project take?
Depending on the scope of your project, the timeline could range from 4 to 12 months. This includes time to establish proposed objectives and conduct research. Our typical branding project takes about 6 to 9 months.
Whom should I talk to regarding CDG?
On first base, you can either reach out to certified consultants (like us) or SME Centres.
What do you mean by certified consultants?
From 1 January 2017, if you engage consultants, they need to be certified management consultants.
SMEs should ensure that consultants involved in CDG must possess Enterprise Singapore-recognised certification; failing which Enterprise Singapore reserves the right not to support the consultancy fees incurred.
Are Firefish consultants certified?
Yes! Consultants from Firefish are certified and accredited by TÜV SÜD PSB and recognised by Enterprise Singapore.
Is the application process easy?
The application process has been simplified. You can easily apply CDG at Singapore Business Grants Portal.
How is the application process like?
We have created a CDG Walk-through so that you will understand the process better.
Click here to view the entire CDG Walk-through.
Can you help us fill the application form?
If you have officially appointed us as your consultant, we are more than happy to advise you. The filling up of the actual forms will have to be done by your side. However, please do take note that in the end, you are accountable for the claim.
What other documents do I require for the application?
The usual suspects. Your company’s latest ACRA profile, last 3 years' audited financial statements and consultant’s proposal.
Is there a minimum employee size?
There is indeed a question on employees size in the application form under Company Profile section. We have not received a clear answer from SPRING (now known as Enterprise Singapore). Our experience tells us that it should not be zero. And the project sum must justify the size of the company.
Is there a minimum annual revenue?
Again, there are questions on annual revenue as well as profit or loss under Company Profile section. Similarly, there is no definite answers from SPRING (now known as Enterprise Singapore). And consequentially, the project sum must justify your annual revenue or profit/loss. It is on a case-to-case basis. If you really need a figure, your last year's annual turnover should be at least S$500k.
How long do I have to wait to know the results of my application?
There is no fixed timeline. Based on our experience however, you should get a reply from Enterprise Singapore within 6 to 8 weeks. Sometimes, it can take up to 3 months. Do understand Enterprise Singapore is running a lean team to handle CDG applications.
Can I start CDG whilst applying for CDG?
No.Enterprise Singapore insists that your project cannot commence before your application has been approved.
What does it mean?
It means that you should not have already begun on the project before your application has been approved. Neither should you have made payment to service providers or suppliers involved in the project.
Can I claim Productivity Innovation Credit (PIC) together with CDG?
No. PIC has officially ended.
Do you help us to do claims?
After you engaged our consultancy services, we will advise you accordingly how to make a claim.
How can Firefish help us with CDG?
We will guide you through the entire process step by step.
What are the other key areas that are covered by CDG?
Besides, Branding and Marketing, other areas include Business Model Transformation, Business Excellence, Standards Adoption, Financial Management, Human Capital Development, Intellectual Property, Enhancing Business Processes for Productivity, Service Excellence and Product Development. As you can see, Enterprise Singapore tries to cover every possible area of your business and address your business needs.
How many CDG Grants can I apply for in a single financial year?
In theory, there are no restrictions on how many CDG Grants you can apply for in a single financial year. Enterprise Singapore insists though that you must first complete a CDG project before you embark on your next CDG project. You can only apply for a CDG grant in a specified area once. Meaning to say if you are awarded a Branding and Marketing CDG once, you are no longer eligible for Branding and Marketing CDG. Feel free to try for CDG grants in other developmental areas.
Who is SPRING?
SPRING Singapore is an agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry responsible for helping Singapore enterprises grow and building trust in Singapore products and services. However, SPRING has merge dwith IE Singapore to form Enterprise Singapore. The focus for SMEs should be glocal instead of simply local. And a brand that is international must be in your next strategic move.
What is Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG)?
Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) is a grant that supports Commercial Off-The-Shelf Solutions (COTS). Basically, COTS are more affordable and require little or no customisation work. It covers up to 90% of the solution cost. Click here for a list of pre-approved and pre-scoped COTS. Click here more information about PSG. If COTS do not meet your needs and you require a bespoke solution for your business, do contact us!
Still got a burning question?
CDG is administered by Enterprise Singapore.
All information is subjected to change due to changes in government policy.
Claims are subjected to approval by Enterprise Singapore.
For more information, visit Enterprise Singapore's CDG official page.
