What is the SG Heritage Business Scheme?

The National Heritage Board is introducing the SG Heritage Business Scheme to celebrate and support exemplar local heritage businesses that:

Preserve our rich heritage;
Have strong community ties;
Are committed to sustaining their businesses.

If your business has been a part of Singapore’s story for 30 years or more, this scheme is for you.

Who is the scheme for?

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Eligible businesses have to:

Be registered and operating in Singapore;
Be in continuous operation for at least 30 years as of 1 January 2025, excluding (i) short-term closures for holiday or other purposes, (ii) closure during the Covid-19 pandemic, not exceeding 2 years or (iii) such other closures if NHB deems appropriate to accept for consideration, at NHB’s sole discretion;
Have at least 30% local equity held directly or indirectly by Singaporean(s) and/or Singapore PRs, determined by the ultimate individual ownership;
Be located in the Central Area*

We look for businesses that:

Have remained in the same site or area for 30+ years;
Offer traditional trades, goods and/or services;
Demonstrate strong community ties or impact;
Are committed to maintaining their heritage.

Please note that fulfilling the criteria does not guarantee a successful nomination.

*The scheme is currently being piloted in the Central Area. NHB will review this for subsequent iterations.

List of SG Heritage Businesses Designated in 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How may businesses apply for the SG Heritage Business Scheme?

The current cycle has been completed. For the most up-to-date information on application windows and announcements, please check this page and NHB's social media channels regularly, as all updates will be posted there.

2. Does the scheme provide financial support to heritage businesses?

No, the SG Heritage Business Scheme does not provide direct financial assistance to designated businesses. However, the scheme offers valuable support in other areas, such as increased visibility, marketing support (e.g. exclusive digital marketing assets and a designation plaque), and, where necessary, tailored business support to address specific business needs and challenges.

3. I am not sure if my business qualifies as a heritage business, am I still eligible?

Businesses that are not predominantly involved in the transmission or preservation of traditional trades, goods and services, or offer non-culturally specific offerings, may not qualify for the scheme. These may include:

Non-local chain restaurants
Mass-produced retail outlets
Technology-based services
Non-localised professional services

4. My business is older than the ACRA registration date, will that affect my eligibility?

We accept other verifiable documents, such as a rental agreement or real-estate purchase agreement, as proof of the business’s age on a case-by-case basis.

5. How does the SG Heritage Business Scheme differ from the Organisation Transformation Grant?

The Organisation Transformation Grant is a one-off grant that encourages and support heritage businesses and organisations to adopt transformative and/or innovative projects that will contribute to the sustainability and long-term viability of their business. Unlike the Designation Scheme, the Grant is available to all locally registered heritage organisations and businesses (profit or non-profit).

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