SSIC Codes for Tech Startups & Digital Businesses
Singapore's tech sector spans dozens of SSIC codes across software, cloud, data, and emerging technologies. Picking the wrong one can cost you grant eligibility or trigger unnecessary regulatory requirements.
Tech Business Classification in Singapore
Most technology businesses in Singapore fall under Section J — Information and Communications. This section covers everything from software publishing to data processing, IT services, and telecommunications. However, not all tech businesses belong here. A fintech lending platform would be classified under Section K (Financial Services), while an e-commerce platform selling physical goods belongs under Section G (Wholesale and Retail Trade).
The classification follows what your business does, not the technology it uses. A restaurant that takes online orders is still an F&B business. An AI company that builds diagnostic tools for hospitals may be classified under health services. Always classify by the output or service you deliver, not by the tools you build with. If you are incorporating a tech company in Singapore, Emerhub's registration guide covers the full process from ACRA filing to bank account setup.
Software Development Codes
The core software development codes sit under Division 62 — Computer Programming, Consultancy and Related Activities. This is the home base for most tech startups building products.
The go-to code for startups building SaaS products, mobile apps, web platforms, or custom software. If your primary revenue comes from software you have built, this is your code.
Specifically for businesses whose core product is building or operating web portals and websites. Distinct from general software development.
A catch-all for software activities not covered by 62011 or 62012. Use this for embedded software, firmware development, or niche software products.
SaaS, Cloud Services & Hosting
There is no dedicated SSIC code for "SaaS" specifically. ACRA does not distinguish between on-premise software and cloud-delivered software at the code level. Most SaaS companies in Singapore register under 62011 (Software Development) as their primary code.
If your business model centres on infrastructure provisioning — hosting, cloud storage, or managed servers — the correct classification shifts to Division 63:
IT Consulting & Managed Services
If your business sells advisory services, system integration, or managed IT support rather than building proprietary software, the correct code is:
Covers IT advisory, systems planning, digital transformation consulting, and managed IT services. Many solo IT consultants and freelancers also use this code — see our freelancer SSIC guide for more detail.
A common pattern: declare 62011 as your primary code for product development and 62020 as your secondary if you also offer consulting services to fund product development.
AI, Blockchain & Emerging Technology
The SSIC framework does not yet have dedicated codes for artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, or Web3. These technologies are classified by their application domain:
Companies building AI-powered software products typically register under 62011. The technology stack does not change the SSIC classification.
Crypto exchanges and DPT service providers fall under Section K (Financial Services) and require MAS licensing under the Payment Services Act. Pure blockchain infrastructure may use 62011 or 63111. For an overview of licence types and when they apply, see Emerhub's guide to Singapore business licences.
Firms providing AI advisory or data science consulting services would use 62020 (IT Consultancy) or a research-oriented code depending on the nature of the engagement.
Common Mistakes Tech Founders Make
Using "IT Consulting" for a product company. If you build and sell software, 62011 is more accurate than 62020. This distinction matters for Enterprise Singapore grant applications, which differentiate between product and service companies.
Classifying a marketplace under tech. If your platform connects buyers and sellers of physical goods, ACRA considers that retail or wholesale trade, not software development. A food delivery platform may need an F&B-adjacent code.
Overlooking publishing codes. Digital content businesses — games, media, e-books — may be better classified under Division 58 (Publishing) rather than software development.
Quick Reference: Tech-Related SSIC Codes
| Code | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 62011 | Software Development | SaaS, apps, platforms |
| 62012 | Web Portal Development | Web portals, CMS platforms |
| 62019 | Other Software Development | Firmware, embedded systems |
| 62020 | IT Consultancy | IT advisory, managed services |
| 63111 | Data Processing | Cloud infra, data centres |
| 63119 | Other Data Processing & Hosting | Web hosting, managed hosting |
| 58xxx | Publishing Activities | Games, digital media, e-books |
Browse the full Section J (Information & Communications) hierarchy or view all SSIC classifications.
Ready to Register Your Tech Startup?
Emerhub helps tech founders incorporate in Singapore quickly and correctly — including SSIC code selection, ACRA filing, nominee director appointment, and corporate bank account setup. Get your company registered so you can focus on building your product.