Guide to Starting a Business in Singapore - when you are Non-Singaporean (Woman)

Starting a Business in Singapore as a Non-Singaporean : A Friendly Guide

Singapore is a great place for entrepreneurs, and as a non-Singaporean woman, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to thrive. Here’s a simple, friendly guide to help you get started and connect with supportive communities.

1. Get the Right Visa

To work and start a business, you’ll need the right pass:

• EntrePass: Ideal for innovative startups. Check if your business qualifies!

• Employment Pass (EP): Apply through your company to live and work in Singapore.

• Dependent Pass (with Letter of Consent): For those already living in Singapore with family.

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2. Register Your Business

Use ACRA’s BizFile+ platform to register. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A local director (can be a Singapore Citizen, PR, or someone with an EP).

• A registered business address (virtual offices or co-working spaces work great!).

Pro tip: Partner with a local incorporation service to make this process smooth.

3. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Set up an account with banks like DBS, UOB, or OCBC. Most banks are startup-friendly but be prepared with your business plan and incorporation documents.

4. Tap Into Support for Entrepreneurs

Singapore loves startups! Here’s what’s available:

• Startup SG: Grants and support for foreign-led businesses.

• Government Incentives: Tax exemptions for new businesses and productivity grants.

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5. Build Your Network

Networking is key to success in Singapore. Join these communities for mentorship, collaboration, and growth:

• PrimeTime Business and Professional Women’s Association: A hub for international women professionals.

• Singapore Women Entrepreneurs Network (SG-WEN): Perfect for connecting with like-minded women.

• She1K: A global women’s network that supports entrepreneurs with funding and advice.

• Ladies Investment Club: A group focused on women-led businesses.

• Global Women Founders : A Women Entrepreneur Club, organizing local network events to connect entrepreneurs.

6. Secure Funding

Singapore offers several funding options:

• Angel Investors & VCs: Look into Golden Gate Ventures or Monk’s Hill Ventures.

• Crowdfunding: Platforms like FundedHere and Kickstarter are great for reaching international backers.

• Grants: Some government grants are open to foreign entrepreneurs, especially in tech or innovation sectors.

  
  

7. Embrace Digital Tools

Singapore is a tech-savvy hub! Use platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and LinkedIn to build your brand. Apply for digital grants like the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) to subsidize tools.

8. Learn Local Business Etiquette

Singapore is multicultural, so respect for different cultures and clear communication are key. English is the main business language, but knowing some Mandarin or Malay can help build rapport.

9. Join Entrepreneurial Communities

Here are some friendly spaces for women entrepreneurs:

• The Athena Network: A women’s network for professional development.

• Women Founders Network Asia: Focused on connecting women across industries.

• Expat Women Entrepreneurs in Singapore (Facebook Group): A welcoming online community for advice and support.

  
  

10. Take Care of Yourself

Balancing life and business is important! Singapore has excellent facilities, family-friendly policies, and expat groups like Singapore Expat Women to make your journey easier.

Starting a business in Singapore is an exciting adventure, and with the right resources and communities, you’ll be well on your way to success. Explore, network, and enjoy the journey of building your dream in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities!