Written reply to PQ on tracking post-disbursement outcomes of productivity solutions grant and Enterprise Development Grant recipients

Question:

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether the Ministry tracks post-disbursement outcomes of (i) Productivity Solutions Grant and (ii) Enterprise Development Grant recipients, beyond the first year of adoption; (b) what action has been taken against vendors identified as consistently delivering suboptimal results for these grant recipients; and (c) what safeguards, if any, prevent such vendors from being approved for use by grant recipients funded under other grant schemes. 

Written Answer by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong

1.           The Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) supports businesses in enhancing their productivity by providing financial support for a list of pre-approved solutions. The Government regularly reviews the effectiveness of these solutions and vendors based on feedback from recipient companies and Trade Associations and Chambers. Solutions which are assessed to be less effective, and/or vendors with poor performance or track records, will be removed from the pre-approved list. 

2.           The Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) supports businesses in building and enhancing capabilities, innovating, and gaining market access. Companies submit proposals that are aligned with their business needs and intended outcomes. Enterprise Singapore will assess these proposals based on their merits and also monitor the approved projects to ensure the recipient companies are undertaking the committed project milestones. 

3.           Vendors found to have breached appointment terms and conditions will be investigated and subject to appropriate enforcement action by the Government. Those with severe violations may face suspension or debarment from Government schemes.