Singapore ranks 4th in global startup ecosystem index

Singapore City also moved up four places to 12th globally.

Singapore has secured the 4th spot in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index, overtaking Canada.

This also marks the first time a country outside the US, UK, Israel, and Canada has made the top four. The ecosystem grew by 44.9% this year, well above the average growth of 28.5% among the top 20.

Since 2020, Singapore has jumped 12 spots, doubling China’s score and confirming its lead as Asia’s top startup hub.

The city state also ranks 2nd worldwide in ecommerce & retail and fintech, leading in financial services and ranking 2nd in blockchain and virtual currency.

Meanwhile, Singapore City moved up four places to 12th globally, the highest rank amongst the top 25 cities.

It recorded the largest growth in the top 40 cities this year, expanding over 50%. The city also overtook Tokyo to become Asia’s 5th largest startup hub and ranks 6th among cities with 2 to 10 million residents.

Additionally, the city ranks in the global top 10 for Fintech (4th), Ecommerce & Retail (7th), Edtech (9th), and holds 3rd place in Blockchain.

According to the index, Singapore’s success comes from financial stability, pro-business policies, strong legal frameworks, and a focus on scaling startups globally. Major companies like Grab highlight its regional influence.

Singapore is also seen as leader in deep-tech, fintech, AI, and advanced manufacturing. OpenAI’s Asia-Pacific hub is also based here.

Support comes from accelerators like ACE, government programs such as Enterprise Singapore and Startup SG, and universities like NUS, which provide resources and global expansion opportunities.

Challenges remain, including high real estate costs and a traditionally risk-averse culture, but initiatives like the Entrepreneur Pass and Tech Pass help attract global talent.

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