Securing funding is a key step for startups working to develop and scale new technologies or business models. In 2025, a wide range of public sector startup funding programs are available across different regions, offering support through grants, public loans, co-investment schemes, and fund-of-funds initiatives. These programs are typically designed to support research, innovation, commercialization, and job creation within national or regional priorities.
This list is regularly updated as new programs are launched or expanded. If you manage or are aware of a government funding initiative for startups that should be included, contact us.
Startup SG Tech
Focus: Singapore-based startups with global ambition
Funding Type: Equity-free grant
This program provides early-stage, equity-free grants to startups developing proprietary technologies or intellectual property. It supports two distinct development stages:
Proof-of-Concept (POC): Up to S$250,000 to assess technical feasibility
Proof-of-Value (POV): Up to S$500,000 to validate commercial viability
Funding covers R&D manpower, materials, IP development, and third-party services. Applicants must demonstrate global market potential and significant technical novelty.
Boost (under National Technology Development Program)
Focus: Saudi-based startups in tech and deep tech
Funding Type: Grant + Technical Enablement
Boost supports startups from early-stage prototyping through MVP development. The program offers non-dilutive funding, prototyping services, and technical guidance. Companies receive structured support across ideation, proof-of-concept, technical validation, and pilot deployment. Priority is given to sectors aligned with Vision 2030 such as AI, robotics, sustainability, and smart cities.
Aide pour le Développement de l’Innovation (ADI)
Focus: French startups with R&D-intensive projects
Funding Type: Non-dilutive grant or reimbursable advance
ADI provides substantial public co-financing for startups developing breakthrough innovations. Grants cover up to 45–65% of eligible R&D costs, which can include technical feasibility studies, prototyping, pre-industrial testing, and IP development. Funding is typically
Startup Qatar – Direct Lending Program
Focus: Qatar-based SMEs and early-stage ventures
Funding Type: Government-backed loans
The Direct Lending Program provides accessible loans of up to QAR 4 million to startups and early-stage companies in Qatar. These loans are offered at favorable terms with extended grace periods and may be used for asset purchases, product development, or working capital. Priority sectors include technology, manufacturing, and health.
Global Innovation Fund – Core Innovation Fund
Focus: Startups solving challenges in developing countries
Funding Type: Grant, debt, or equity (flexible capital)
The Core Innovation Fund provides $50,000 to $15 million in flexible funding to innovations that improve the lives of people in low- and middle-income countries. It supports pilot projects, scaling efforts, and rigorous impact measurement. Funding is stage-matched:
Pilot stage: Small grants (~$230K)
Test & transition stage: Grants or risk capital (~$1M–$5M)
Scale stage: Larger capital (up to $15M)
GIF focuses on health, education, climate resilience, and inclusive finance.
EIT Urban Mobility – Impact Ventures Program
Focus: European startups in sustainable urban transport
Funding Type: Grant + Acceleration
This program provides equity-free grants of up to €500,000 to European mobility startups solving city and climate-related challenges. It includes access to EIT’s network of public authorities, corporates, and venture capital partners. The support includes: go-to-market mentoring, piloting in cities, business development and matchmaking.
Applicants are selected through annual open calls and must demonstrate market traction and scalability.
Early Stage R&D Grant (Israel Innovation Authority)
Focus: Israeli tech startups in early development
Funding Type: Non-dilutive grant (royalty-based repayment upon success)
This flagship program supports Israeli startups conducting risky R&D with no immediate revenue. It provides up to 50%–70% of eligible R&D expenses (even higher for underrepresented groups). Startups retain full IP and equity, and repayment only occurs through royalties if the product becomes profitable. The program is sector-agnostic and encourages breakthrough innovation.
CSIRO Kick-Start
Focus: Australian startups and small businesses
Funding Type: Matched grant (non-dilutive)
CSIRO Kick-Start matches AUD $10,000 to $50,000 in funding for R&D collaborations between startups and CSIRO research labs. Eligible uses include: Feasibility studies, development of novel prototypes, testing of materials or digital technologies
Startups receive expert guidance and access to advanced lab infrastructure. The program accelerates commercial R&D execution in deep-tech sectors.
Smart Grant (Innovate UK)
Focus: UK-based startups with disruptive innovation
Funding Type: Competitive grant (non-dilutive)
Smart Grants offer funding of £100,000 to £2 million for R&D projects that demonstrate high risk and transformative potential. Projects must be business-led and involve strong commercial viability. Eligible phases include feasibility, industrial research, and experimental development. Typical funding rates: SMEs: up to 70% of costs & Medium enterprises: up to 60%. Funding competitions run multiple times per year.
Who Are These Funding Programs For?
Public sector startup funding programs are ideal for founders looking to retain full ownership of their ventures while receiving financial and technical support. These programs, whether through grants, loans, or co-investment schemes, are especially valuable for early-stage startups involved in R&D, commercialization, or tackling national development priorities.
From deep-tech and sustainability to inclusive finance and urban mobility, governments and public institutions are stepping up to empower innovation. The right funding opportunity depends on your startup’s maturity, sector, and strategic goals.
The right choice depends on your business model and growth goals.
We are continuously updating our lists and expanding our research. If you manage or know of a funding program worth featuring, don’t hesitate to contact us.
