MTC MISSION
Forecasted
MTC MISSION supports multidisciplinary research teams working on sector-led translational research to advance Singapore’s priorities and bring technologies into industry use with commercial impact.
Funder: Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR)
Due Dates: Programme-specific calls (timelines announced following programme approval)
Funding Amounts: Programme duration: up to 3 years in the FAQ; up to 5 years on the programme page
Summary: Supports sector-aligned, mission-driven translational R&D with clear pathways to industry deployment and commercial impact within 3–10 years.
Key Information: Unsolicited proposals are not accepted; applications must respond to programme-specific calls and carry Host Institution endorsement.
Description
A*STAR’s Manufacturing, Trade and Connectivity (MTC) MISSION Funding Initiative supports mission-driven translational research aligned with national and sectoral priorities under RIE2030. It targets medium-term research with a clear pathway to industry deployment and outsized commercial impact within 3–10 years, rather than curiosity-driven research with longer-term impact.
The initiative uses a sector-directed, Portfolio Director (PD)-led approach instead of a centralised rolling grant call. Sector Leads from economic and connectivity agencies identify strategic investment areas, and PDs define problem statements and assemble multidisciplinary research teams. Researchers propose projects addressing those problems. PDs actively manage the resulting portfolio, including funding allocation, re-scoping and discontinuation as technical progress and sector needs evolve. Assessment emphasises technology advancement and downstream commercial outcomes rather than Industry R&D Spending commitments.
