Singapore’s status as a top startup hub in Asia is well-earned. With over 4,500 active startups and more than 20 unicorns, the city-state has cemented its reputation as a launchpad for innovative ideas. However, to truly succeed here, a startup needs more than just a great idea; it needs a supportive ecosystem.

This guide will provide an overview of the best startup incubators and startup accelerators in Singapore, explaining the core differences and what each offers to help entrepreneurs make an informed choice.

What Are Startup Incubators and Accelerators?

A simple way to differentiate between the two is that incubators are about nurturing a new idea, while accelerators are about helping a business model that is already working to scale your startup rapidly.

Startup Incubators

A startup incubator is a programme designed to nurture nascent startups in their earliest stages. Incubators are typically long-term, focused on business model validation, and often have no strict timeline. They provide a nurturing environment where founders can refine their best ideas and build a solid foundation.

A step-by-step process of how startup incubators work typically includes:

1. Ideation & Validation: Helping founders test and validate their initial business idea.
2. Business Planning: Providing guidance and resources to develop a comprehensive startup business plan.
3. Mentorship: Offering access to experienced entrepreneurs who can find a mentor for your startup to provide guidance and support.
4. Networking: Connecting founders with a community of peers, investors, and industry experts.

Startup Accelerators

A startup accelerator is a fast-paced, time-limited programme (usually 3-6 months) focused on rapid growth and scaling. The best accelerators provide intensive mentorship, resources, and often seed funding in exchange for a small amount of equity. The primary goal is to take a promising startup and accelerate its development and market traction.

A step-by-step process of how startup accelerators work typically includes:

1. Application and Selection: A competitive process where startups apply and are selected based on their potential for rapid growth.
2. Intensive Programme: A structured, time-limited curriculum that includes workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events.
3. Demo Day: The programme culminates in a "Demo Day" where startups pitch their businesses to a large audience of potential investors.
4. Post-Programme Support: Continued access to the accelerator’s network, resources, and alumni community to support ongoing growth.

The Best Startup Incubators in Singapore

Singapore's vibrant incubator scene provides a nurturing environment for early-stage companies to grow. These organisations offer more than just a desk; they provide the community and resources needed to transform an idea into a viable business.

Let’s look at some of the best startup incubators Singapore has to offer.

1. Block71

Block71, a well-established name in Singapore, is a global connector for tech startups, providing a physical and virtual hub for entrepreneurs to network and grow. It offers deep networks, strong visibility, and a proven track record. For those looking for support and investor introductions, Block71 is among the strongest incubators.

Highlights:

• Since 2011, over 600 startups have been incubated at Block71 in Singapore.
• It has helped produce several notable unicorns, including Carousell and PatSnap.
• Startups at Block71 in Singapore have accounted for ~11% of all equity funding raised by Singapore startups since 2011.
• A physical footprint includes several hubs, mentoring, and access to investor & partner networks.

2. SMU IIE

SMU's Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IIE) has a mission to nurture student and alumni entrepreneurs. It provides a comprehensive support structure from ideation to launch, making it a strong option for early-stage startups or student-founders needing incubation rather than just acceleration. The programme is a good option for those seeking a highly engaged mentorship.

Highlights:

• Since 2009, SMU IIE has incubated more than 200 startups under its Business Innovations Generator (BIG) programme.
• As of 2024, the institute has cumulatively incubated around 490 startups.
• These startups have cumulatively raised over S$747 million (excluding grants).
• The programme is equity-free, with a duration of four months and two cohorts a year.

3. EduSpaze

EduSpaze highlights its focus as Asia's first dedicated EdTech incubator. For startups in the edtech, training, or learning space, EduSpaze is a highly specialised and focused option. It provides good access to mentors and offers a respectable seed funding limit.

Highlights:

• Since its inception in 2019, EduSpaze has supported nearly 70 edtech startups across Southeast Asia.
• The programme provides seed funding support of up to SGD 500,000 for some startups in its accelerator programme.
• EduSpaze offers mentorship, educators-in-residence, and a network of investors.

The Best Startup Accelerators in Singapore

Singapore’s leading accelerators play a crucial role in helping startups with proven business models scale your startup rapidly. These programmes are intensive and structured, demanding a strong value proposition for acceptance.

Let’s look at some of the best startup accelerators Singapore has to offer.

1. Accelerating Asia

Accelerating Asia focuses on pre-Series A startups across Southeast Asia, offering funding, mentorship, and a regional network to help them grow. It has decent traction and a proven ability to help startups raise follow-on rounds. For founders with some initial traction, it's a good signal to investors.

Highlights:

• A portfolio of ~60-80 startups across 10+ verticals.
• Its portfolio has raised over US$50-55M+ in total funds as of mid-2024.
• In an earlier cohort, 60% of startups had at least one female co-founder.
• The programme has a very low acceptance rate, at ~2-3% in earlier cohorts.
• A typical investment size is up to S$200,000 from their VC fund.

2. Antler

Antler’s unique approach helps founders find a mentor for their startup and form teams before providing seed funding. As a major player in the market, its programme offers access to a large network, the opportunity for follow-on funding, and significant visibility for startups.

Highlights:

In Southeast Asia, Antler invested ~US$7.4M across multiple startups in 2025.

• Their Southeast Asia Fund II is a US$72M fund intended for early-stage investments.
• The global portfolio includes over 1,000 companies, with over thousands of founders supported.
• Startups from its portfolio have secured over US$350M in follow-on rounds.
• In 2024 alone, the programme completed 96 deals worth over US$12.5M across Southeast Asia.

3. FinLab

FinLab specialises in helping to scale your startup in FinTech and SME tech fields through its ecosystem of partners. As a niche player, FinLab provides tailored domain support, making it an ideal option if your product or domain fits within the FinTech or SME tech spaces. Its programmes are a good avenue for funding for tech startups.

Highlights:

• Recognised as an active accelerator and collaborator in the Singapore region.
• A known focus on FinTech, digital transformation, and working with SMEs.

4. StartupX

StartupX focuses on cultivating innovation through various programmes and events, connecting startups with corporates and government bodies. While its public metrics might be lower, it can be a highly selective and boutique programme, particularly for those with an impact or tech-for-good lean.

Highlights:

• StartupX is often listed among the accelerators and enablers in Singapore with a focus on impact or tech-for-good.

Finding the Right Ecosystem for You

The key differences between incubators and accelerators have been laid out. The best choice ultimately depends on your startup's stage of development and its unique needs, whether that is nurturing an idea or rapid growth.

Startups are encouraged to leverage these supportive ecosystems. For a professional presence without a physical office, consider a virtual office address in Singapore. For dedicated work, rent a workspace or explore a professional coworking space in Singapore to build and grow your business.