​The Singapore Budget 2023 was announced on 14 February 2023, outlining the government's plans to strengthen the country's economy and create opportunities for businesses, workforce, and employment. In this article, we will explore the key takeaways of the budget and how it can benefit businesses, workforces and employment in Singapore.

Supporting Businesses & Developing Local Enterprises

Under the Singapore Global Enterprises initiative, the government has allocated S$5 billion to support the growth of local companies in international markets. This initiative aims to help businesses expand overseas and diversify their revenue streams. The government also announced a new S$1 billion support fund to help local enterprises compete globally.

For businesses looking to expand overseas, the Singapore Global Innovation Alliance (SGIA) will continue to offer support through co-working spaces, mentorship, and networking opportunities in key markets such as San Francisco, Bangalore, and Beijing. This will provide a platform for companies to tap into new markets and establish connections with potential business partners.

SGIA also offers opportunities for businesses to collaborate with Singaporean startups that are working on innovative solutions in areas such as fintech, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. By partnering with these startups, businesses can gain access to new technology and ideas that can help them expand their operations.

The recently established assistance fund, which may be used to draw and keep outstanding talent in Singapore, can also benefit local businesses. This will support companies' efforts to deal with talent shortages and maintain competitiveness in a competitive labor market. Businesses may boost productivity and creativity with the proper workforce, which will result in long-term success.

Utilizing the $1 Billion Support Fund

The S$1 billion support fund can be used to support local enterprises in various ways, including the following:

  • Enhancing productivity and innovation capabilities

  • Developing new business models

  • Internationalization efforts

  • Attracting and retaining top talent in Singapore

Local companies can leverage this support fund to develop new products and services, improve their operations, and expand their market reach. They can also use it to enhance their recruitment and retention efforts, offering competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent in the country.

Supporting Workers

The extension of the Enterprise Financing Scheme (EFS) enhancements till 31 March 2024 to facilitate access to credit and this includes a 70% government risk-share for trade loans, enhanced maximum quantum for trade and working capital loans, and support for domestic construction projects via project loans. This will be a great help to businesses which are looking to secure financing and manage their cash flow, ensuring that they can continue to operate and grow.

Via the launch of a pilot Jobs-Skills Integrators program in Precision Engineering, Retail, and Wholesale Trade sectors, this program aims to bring together key players in these industries to develop industry-relevant training and facilitate job matching.

Taking Advantage of the Budget for Personal Growth

For workers, the Singapore Budget 2023 presents opportunities to upskill and stay competitive in the job market. The Jobs-Skills Integrators program provides a platform for workers to acquire industry-relevant skills and connect with potential employers. Workers can also benefit from the extended EFS enhancements, which will help them to secure financing for their businesses or start-ups.

Here are several positive reasons:

1.Enhance employability: By upskilling and reskilling, workers can enhance their employability and increase their chances of securing better job opportunities. As the job market evolves, employers are looking for workers with diverse skill sets that can help them stay competitive.

2.Increase earning potential: Workers who possess in-demand skills are likely to command higher salaries than those who do not.

3.Future-proof career: In today's rapidly changing job market, some jobs are becoming obsolete, while others are emerging. Acquiring new skills will allow workers to future-proof their careers and ensure that they remain employable in the long run.

In addition, the government's focus on developing local enterprises and attracting top talent in Singapore will create more job opportunities in the country. This presents opportunities for workers to stay relevant and competitive in today’s landscape, or able to explore new career paths and move up the career ladder.

Significance of Budget 2023 for Singapore's Long-Term Growth

The Singapore Budget 2023 is significant for the country's long-term economic growth and job creation. By supporting businesses and developing local enterprises, the government is creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and innovation. This will lead to the creation of new businesses, job opportunities, and a more vibrant economy.

The focus on attracting and retaining top talent in Singapore will also ensure that the country remains competitive in a globalized world. With the right talent in place, businesses can continue to innovate and grow, creating more job opportunities for Singaporeans.

In summary, as workers, employers and business owners, everyone should take advantage of the government initiatives, whether it is to relevant in the competitive landscape to enhance their employability, increase earning potential, or to develop new business models.

At Charterhouse Asia, we continuously put the needs of people (clients and candidates) first. We also have the foresight to foresee market changes and work with clients and candidates to go above and beyond their expectations. Get in touch with us right away for career counseling and help if you want to stay on top of the game.