How to Use SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) for Smarter Employee Training

Your 2025 SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) Snapshot

• What is SFEC? A S$10,000 credit from the Singapore Government for eligible companies.
• What it Covers: Up to 90% of out-of-pocket expenses for employee training and business transformation initiatives.
• Who Benefits? Singaporean companies looking to upskill their workforce and innovate without heavy financial burden.
• Key Takeaways: Learn eligibility, how to claim for courses, and strategies to maximize this credit for holistic growth.
• Why it Matters: Empower your workforce, drive enterprise transformation, and build a future-ready business in 2025.

How Singapore Companies Can Supercharge Upskilling and Transformation

In Singapore’s dynamic business landscape, staying competitive means constantly evolving. Whether you’re a bustling SME or a growing enterprise, the need to innovate, adopt new technologies, and, most importantly, upskill your team is more critical than ever. 

But let’s be real – investing in training and transformation can come with a hefty price tag. What if we told you there’s a powerful government initiative designed to significantly ease that financial burden, helping your company thrive without breaking the bank?

Enter the SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC). This isn’t just another grant; it’s a strategic boost from the Singapore Government, designed to empower businesses like yours to embark on crucial workforce and enterprise transformation journeys. 

If you’ve been wondering how to make high-quality training more accessible and affordable for your employees, or how to kickstart digital adoption within your company, then you’re in the right place. 

This comprehensive guide will demystify SFEC, explain exactly how it works, and show you how to leverage this incredible S$10,000 credit to invest smarter in your future. Get ready to discover how SFEC can be a game-changer for your company’s growth and your employees’ development!

What Exactly is SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC)?

Let’s break it down in simple terms. The SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit (SFEC) is a one-off credit of S$10,000 that the Singapore Government provides to eligible employers. Think of it as a special voucher or subsidy specifically earmarked to help companies offset up to 90% of out-of-pocket expenses when they invest in their workforce and business capabilities. 

It’s a fantastic way for the government to encourage businesses to take proactive steps towards a more skilled workforce and a more innovative enterprise.

Why was SFEC created? 

The goal is clear: to support companies in two key areas:

1. Workforce Transformation: This means helping your employees gain new skills, adapt to changing job roles, and stay relevant in an evolving economy. It’s all about making your team stronger and more capable.
2. Enterprise Transformation: This focuses on helping your business itself become more productive, innovative, and digital. This could involve adopting new technologies, improving business processes, or redesigning job functions.

Is Your Company Eligible for SFEC?

To tap into this S$10,000 credit, your company needs to meet a few straightforward criteria. While it’s always best to check the official GoBusiness Singapore website for the most current details, here are the general requirements:

• Your company must be registered or incorporated in Singapore.
• You need to have at least three local employees (Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents) who are not directors or owners of the company.
• Your company’s annual operating expenses should be at least S$100,000.
• You must have contributed at least S$750 in Skills Development Levy (SDL) over the qualifying period.
• Your company must not have been qualified for SFEC in previous periods.

SFEC is much more than just a training subsidy. It’s a holistic support system designed to help your business improve across the board, from the skills of your people to the efficiency of your operations.

How SFEC Works: Unlocking Your S$10,000 Credit for Training and Beyond

Now for the exciting part: how do you actually use this S$10,000 credit, especially for employee training? It’s even better than you might think! When it comes to eligible courses, there’s a two-tiered subsidy system that significantly reduces your out-of-pocket expenses.

First, the SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) course subsidies are applied. These typically cover 50% to 70% of the course fees for eligible individuals and companies. After these initial SSG subsidies, your company then pays the remaining cash component. This is where SFEC steps in, providing 90% support on that remaining cash component, up to the S$10,000 credit cap. This layered approach makes investing in your team’s skills incredibly affordable.

Let’s illustrate this with a concrete example, using our popular Generative AI Course (GA100) at Heicoders Academy, which is an SSG-Eligible programme:

• Original Course Fee: S$1,798.50
  • Step 1: Apply SSG Subsidies: Let’s assume your employee is eligible for a 70% SSG subsidy.
    • SSG Subsidy: 70% of S$1,798.50 = S$1,258.95
    • Remaining Cash Component (Your Company Pays): S$1,798.50 – S$1,258.95 = S$539.55
  • Step 2: Apply SFEC Support: Now, SFEC provides 90% support on this remaining cash component of S$539.55.
    • SFEC Support: 90% of S$539.55 = S$485.60
    • Your Company’s Final Out-of-Pocket Cost: S$539.55 – S$485.60 = S$53.95

That’s right! A S$1,798.50 course could effectively cost your company as little as S$53.95 per employee. This dramatic reduction showcases the true power of combining SSG subsidies with your SFEC. 

You can continue to utilise this 90% SFEC support across various eligible programmes until you reach your S$10,000 credit limit, making continuous upskilling a highly cost-effective strategy for your business.

A Simplified Step-by-Step Process for Claiming SFEC:

While the full details are best found in the official SFEC Claim Guide, here’s a general overview of what your company would typically do:

1. Check Your Eligibility: First things first, confirm your company meets the criteria mentioned above. You can usually do this via the GoBusiness portal.
2. Identify Eligible Programmes: Look for courses and programmes that are supported by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) or fall under the broader categories of enterprise and workforce transformation. Many courses offered by reputable training providers, like Heicoders Academy, are SFEC-eligible.
3. Apply for the Programme: Enroll your employees in the chosen course(s) and make the initial payment.
4. Submit Your SFEC Claim: Once the training is completed and your company has made the payment, you can submit your SFEC claim through the GoBusiness portal. This is where you’ll provide necessary documentation like invoices and proof of payment.
5. Receive Disbursement: After successful verification, the SFEC amount will be disbursed to your company.

Remember, the SFEC is typically disbursed after the completion of the programme and once your company has made the full payment. This means you’ll need to manage your cash flow accordingly. Meticulous record-keeping and proper documentation are absolutely crucial for a smooth claim process.

Beyond Course Fees: Maximising Your SFEC for Holistic Growth

While employee training is a fantastic way to utilize SFEC, the credit’s scope extends much further, offering support for a broader range of activities aimed at transforming your business. This makes SFEC a truly strategic investment, not just a discount.

1. Enterprise Transformation

This category supports initiatives that help your company become more productive, innovative, and future-ready. This could include:

• Adopting Technology: Implementing new software, digital tools, or automation solutions to streamline operations.
• Improving Productivity: Engaging consultants to review and optimize your business processes.
• Going Digital: Developing e-commerce platforms, digital marketing strategies, or data analytics capabilities.

2. Workforce Transformation

Beyond just sending employees for courses, this involves a more structured approach to developing your team:

• Skills Upgrading: Investing in advanced training programmes that equip employees with specialized skills relevant to industry demands.
• Job Redesign: Reshaping existing job roles to enhance productivity, leverage new technologies, and improve employee satisfaction and retention. This could involve redefining tasks, responsibilities, and even the tools employees use.

By looking at SFEC through this broader lens, you can see how it empowers your company to make comprehensive improvements. 

It’s about building a more resilient, agile, and skilled organization from the ground up. For instance, if your company is looking to integrate AI tools, like the AI Agents we discussed in our previous blog post, SFEC could potentially support the training required for your team to effectively implement and manage these advanced solutions.

Heicoders Academy’s Role: Many of Heicoders Academy’s cutting-edge courses, particularly those focused on digital skills, data analytics, and AI literacy, are SFEC-eligible.This means you can leverage your SFEC to provide your team with top-tier training in areas that are critical for today’s and tomorrow’s economy. 

We encourage you to check our course listings or speak to our advisors to see how our programmes align with SFEC support.

Common Questions & Pitfalls to Avoid When Using SFEC

Navigating government schemes can sometimes feel a bit complex, but with SFEC, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some common questions and pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Is My Company Really Eligible?

• Pitfall: Assuming eligibility without double-checking. Policies can change, and specific criteria must be met.
• Solution: Always verify your company’s eligibility directly through the GoBusiness portal or the official SkillsFuture Singapore website before making significant plans or payments. This ensures you’re on solid ground from the start.

2. What About Documentation?

• Pitfall: Lack of meticulous record-keeping. Missing invoices, payment proofs, or attendance records can delay or even invalidate your claim.
• Solution: Treat all documentation related to SFEC-supported activities with utmost care. Keep clear, organized records of all expenditures, course completion certificates, and payment receipts. Think of it as building a strong case for your claim.

3. When and How Do I Submit My Claim?

• Pitfall: Submitting claims late or through the wrong channels. There are specific timelines and portals for submission.
• Solution: Familiarize yourself with the SFEC claim process on the GoBusiness portal. Ensure claims are submitted promptly after the completion of the activity and payment has been made. The official SFEC Claim Guide is your best friend here.

4. Is SFEC for Individuals or Companies?

• Pitfall: Confusing SFEC with individual SkillsFuture Credit. SFEC is often mistakenly thought to be directly usable by individuals.
• Solution: Clarify that SFEC is specifically for companies (employers) to invest in their employees and business transformation. Individual employees have their own SkillsFuture Credit, which is a separate scheme.

5. Staying Updated on Policies

• Pitfall: Relying on outdated information. Government policies and eligibility criteria can be updated periodically.
• Solution: Make it a habit to refer to official sources like the GoBusiness Singapore website and SkillsFuture Singapore for the latest information. This ensures you’re always working with the most accurate guidelines.

By being proactive and informed, you can smoothly navigate the SFEC process and maximize its benefits for your company.

Invest in Your Workforce with SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit

The SkillsFuture Enterprise Credit is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to fostering a future-ready economy. 

For companies, it represents a golden opportunity to invest strategically in their most valuable assets – their people and their operational capabilities – without the full financial strain. It’s about making smarter choices today for a more resilient and innovative tomorrow.

By leveraging SFEC, you’re not just reducing costs; you’re empowering your workforce with essential skills, driving enterprise-wide transformation, and ultimately, positioning your company for sustained growth in an ever-evolving global market. 

Don’t let this valuable resource go untapped. Explore your eligibility, identify key areas for development, and take the leap towards a more skilled and future-proof business. The power to transform is within reach – and SFEC is here to help you seize it.

FAQ Section: Quick Answers to Your SFEC Questions!

Still have questions?

We’ve put together a full FAQ page where you can find more answers about SkillsFuture Credit, other available subsidies, and our courses.

Related Reads:

• How to Claim Your SkillsFuture Credit (2025 Guide)

• How to Know If an AI Course Will Get You Hired in Singapore

• How to Prepare for a Tech Interview Like a Pro (2025 Guide)