How to Apply for the Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme: A Step-by-Step Guide for HDB Shop Owners

By: Lynette Lin
December 9, 2025

Is your neighbourhood shop looking a little tired? Do you notice potential customers walking past your storefront without stopping?

For HDB shop owners (“Heartland Enterprises“), standing out is tougher than ever. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. Enterprise Singapore has introduced the Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme, offering significant funding to help you refresh your store layout and improve your marketing.

If you are looking to revamp your shop, upgrade your display racks, or improve your digital presence, here is everything you need to know about securing this support.

Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme guide, step by step application process for HDB shops, visual merchandising support infographic, storefront branding and display improvement, Singapore

What is the Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme?

This programme is designed to help heartland enterprises build proficiency in visual merchandising—the art of displaying products in a way that encourages sales. It isn’t just about making things look “pretty.” It is about improving workflow, product visibility, and ultimately, your sales figures.

How Much Funding Can You Get?

The support is substantial and categorized by project scale:

  • – Standard Projects: Support on qualifying costs of up to S$20,000.
  • – Larger-Scale Projects: Support on qualifying costs of up to S$60,000 (evaluated on a case-by-case basis).

 

What Does the Programme Cover?

The programme takes a holistic approach, covering both your physical shop and your marketing assets.

1. Storefront Revamp (Renovation & Fixtures)

You can receive funding for physical improvements to your shop, including:

  • – Aesthetic components: Lighting, flooring, and other interior design elements.
  • – Shop fixtures: Display racks, shelving units, and other hardware to showcase products better.

 

2. Marketing & Digital Support

A beautiful shop needs people to know about it. The programme supports:

  • – Marketing Collaterals: Design of at least two promotional assets (e.g., posters, infographics).
  • – Content Creation: Professional photography and copywriting for up to 5 SKUs/listings.
  • – Online Presence: Assistance with Google Business (for reviews and maps) and setting up a company website.

 

Eligibility: Can You Apply?

Before you start planning your renovation, you must ensure you meet the specific criteria for a Heartland Enterprise.

You are eligible if:

  • ✅ You are registered and operating in Singapore.
  • ✅ You have at least 30% local shareholding.
  • ✅ Your group annual turnover is under S$100 million, OR your group employment is under 200 employees.
  • ✅ You operate a physical shopfront in an HDB estate.

 

You are NOT eligible if:

  • ❌ You (or your company directors/shareholders/related companies in the same trade) have applied for the visual merchandising programme previously. This is strictly for first-time applicants.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

The application process is handled through us. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Verify Your Timeline

Ensure you are ready to commit. The programme runs from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2027. All improvements must be implemented by the end date.

Step 2: Prepare for Commitment

To benefit from the grant, you must be willing to put in the work. You will be required to:

  • – Complete the programme with an appointed vendor.
  • – Attend arranged training sessions (to learn how to maintain your new layout).
  • – Commit to using the solution for at least 12 months.

 

Step 3: Schedule a Consultation (The Application)

You cannot apply via a simple online form; you need to speak with an advisor first.

 

Ask for a complimentary consultation regarding the Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme. The Business Advisors will guide you through the specific paperwork and vendor selection process.

Conclusion

The Enhanced Visual Merchandising Programme is a rare opportunity to get professional consulting and financial support to modernize your HDB business. Whether you need better lighting, new shelves, or a Google Maps presence, this scheme covers the essentials of modern retail. Don’t wait until the deadline contact Pivot today to start your application.