Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the MADANI Digital Grant

The MADANI Digital Grant is a Malaysian government initiative designed to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in embracing digitalization. It aims to ease the financial burden of businesses looking to upgrade their operations through digital tools and services. Whether it’s adopting digital marketing, improving e-commerce platforms, or integrating digital payment solutions, this grant can play a critical role in accelerating business growth. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help businesses navigate the application process.

Step 1: Understand the Grant’s Purpose and Eligibility

Before applying, it’s important to understand the objectives of the MADANI Digital Grant. The grant typically targets MSMEs that want to improve productivity and efficiency through digital means. These include adopting cloud-based systems, accounting software, HR solutions, online marketing tools, and more.

Eligibility criteria may vary slightly depending on the implementing agency, but generally, businesses must:

• Be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM)

• Have at least 60% Malaysian ownership

• Be operating for a minimum of six months

• Have an annual turnover of less than RM5 million

Verifying your eligibility early saves time and prevents disappointment later.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation

Next, gather all the documents needed for your application. These commonly include:

• A copy of the business registration (SSM certificate)

• MyKad or identity card of the business owner(s)

• Latest financial statement or bank statements (usually the past three months)

• Business license (if applicable)

• Company profile or a brief summary of your operations

Organizing these documents in advance ensures a smooth application process and reduces delays.

Step 3: Choose Digitalization Partners

To benefit from the grant, you must work with authorized Digitalization Partners or service providers registered under the grant’s scheme. These partners offer a wide range of services, such as website development, digital marketing, e-commerce integration, and accounting software solutions.

Browse through the list of approved partners and choose the one that best fits your business needs. It's advisable to consult directly with a few providers to compare services, pricing, and suitability before making your selection.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Once the documents and partner selection are complete, proceed with the application. Some programs allow online applications through a centralized portal, while others may require submission via a bank or relevant government agency.

Typically, the application form includes:

• Business details

• Selected digital service and provider

• Cost breakdown

• Purpose of digital adoption

Make sure all information provided is accurate and supported by the relevant documents.

Step 5: Await Approval and Proceed with Implementation

After submission, your application will undergo review. This may take a few weeks, depending on the volume of applications and completeness of your submission. If approved, you’ll receive a notification and guidance on how to proceed with payment and service implementation.

In most cases, the grant covers a portion of the digital service cost (e.g., 50%), while the business is responsible for paying the balance. Once the service is activated and in use, your business is officially on the path to digital transformation.

Step 6: Report and Follow-Up

Some grants may require you to submit a short report or feedback after implementation. This is to evaluate the effectiveness of the funded digital solutions and to ensure compliance with the grant’s objectives.

Maintaining open communication with your digital partner and grant administrator can help address any challenges or additional opportunities for support.

Embracing digital tools can significantly enhance business operations, and the MADANI Digital Grant offers an accessible way to take that step. With a structured approach and proper planning, businesses can successfully apply and unlock new growth potential in the digital economy.

Empower your Malaysian MSME in 2025 with MADANI’s Digital Grant! Get up to RM 20k to enhance digital tools, e-commerce capabilities, and marketing. Apply here to elevate efficiency, growth, and competitiveness!