Highest number of 515 patrons recognised for arts philanthropy in Singapore at POAA 2025

The National Arts Council (NAC) celebrates a significant milestone in Singapore’s arts philanthropy with this year’s Patron of the Arts Awards (POAA). This year, POAA honours 515 patrons, the highest number of awardees in the last five years. 

Another significant milestone this year is a notable rise in the number of individual patrons, reflecting a growing number of people who recognise the importance of the arts and commitment in sustaining the arts. While corporate patrons continue with their steadfast support, 412 individual patrons (80% of the total awardees) have also been recognised at this year’s POAA. 

The contributions recognised in this year’s POAA totalled $45.74 million, comprising $28 million in cash and $17 million in kind. Corporate contributions continued to be a key source of support for the arts, accounting for 68 percent (more than $30 million) of total giving, while individual contributions accounted for 32 percent (more than $15 million). This signals strong continued support for the arts in areas that enrich lives, expand access to the arts in the community, and strengthen the long-term growth of Singapore‘s arts ecosystem. The awards ceremony was held tonight at Pan Pacific Singapore, officiated by Mr David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, and Senior Minister of State for Education.

Addressing the importance of arts philanthropy, Acting Minister David Neo said, "The arts shape the Singapore spirit – they help us distil who we are, and strengthen our shared identity as Singaporeans. Over the past sixty years, our artists and arts groups have made many invaluable contributions to our nation building journey. This would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our patrons, whose generosity – through financial donations and in-kind contributions – has been critical to the long-term growth of our arts ecosystem. With your continued partnership, alongside the Government’s support, we can nurture a distinct and vibrant arts scene that every Singaporean can be proud of."

Rising individual philanthropy signifies deeper personal engagement with the arts 

Out of the record number of 412 individual patrons, 155 were first-time donors, comprising 88 percent of new donors in 2024.

Beyond cash contributions that fund performances, individual patrons have provided diverse forms of in-kind support, including donating artworks, bolstering education programmes and providing essential resources such as venues, professional services, and mentorship. Among this year’s first-time patrons, Distinguished Patron of the Arts recipient Sui Ning was recognised for a cash donation to the Yong Siew Toh Master of Music Scholarship Fund, nurturing the next generation of local artists. Distinguished Patron of the Arts recipient Dr Eric Cabri van Amelrode donated two works by Chua Ek Kay and one work by Chng Seok Tin to National Gallery Singapore, ensuring that significant local works by Cultural Medallion recipients remain accessible to future generations. 

Corporate giving anchors programmes that have a positive impact on the community

The strong corporate giving of over $30 million in contributions has launched programmes with meaningful social impact, supporting youth development, mental well-being, and fostering inclusion and social cohesion through the arts. 

Donor support has significantly strengthened the capacity of arts groups to engage with wider and more diverse audiences, seamlessly integrating the arts into everyday life. Distinguished Patron of the Arts recipient UOL-PPHG supported Artability, Rainbow Centre’s visual arts training programme for youths, alongside exhibition sponsorships for differently abled artists. Patron of the Arts recipient Orchard Turn Developments Pte Ltd backed a range of community initiatives, including an exhibition featuring works by 20 seniors from Lion Befrienders Active Ageing Centres, which also involved workshops to nurture digital literacy and self-expression. 

Enabling long-term growth in the arts sector

Arts philanthropy continues to play a critical role in sustaining Singapore’s arts ecosystem. Beyond support for artistic excellence, it enables smaller and emerging arts groups to access wider resources, networks, and infrastructure. Friend of the Arts recipient CapitaLand Retail Management activated four malls for arts presentations, extending the arts’ reach into new and public spaces. 

Patrons also donated through the provision of specialised and corporate skills. Friend of the Arts recipient Dean Augustine provided a range of in-kind sponsorships including marketing and public relations services for Singapore Street Festival’s Elden Ring and Stardew Valley concerts which took place in 2024. Friend of the Arts recipient Elmwood Group Private Limited also provided Raw Moves Ltd with specialised support, which included corporate taxation and accounting services for 2024. 

To create more opportunities that will catalyse giving and drive greater support for the arts, NAC will be championing a series of strategic initiatives featuring robust data insights, thought leadership programmes, and targeted capability building. More details will be released when ready. 

Mr Low Eng Teong, Chief Executive Officer of NAC, said, “Giving to the arts is a powerful way to strengthen our society and shape Singapore’s cultural identity. When we give to the arts, we are also investing in the future of our local arts. It is encouraging to see more individuals and companies giving in diverse and meaningful ways. This collective support opens doors for more Singaporeans to create and connect through the arts. As we deepen the collaboration across the public, private, and people sectors, we can ensure that the arts will not only flourish but continue to inspire, uplift and bring communities closer for generations to come.”

POAA reflects a broader culture of support that continues to strengthen Singapore’s arts industry. In tandem with NAC’s sector development efforts, private contributions have supported initiatives such as the Sustain the Arts (stART) Fund, which empowers smaller arts organisations to build capabilities and grow their practice. Recent partnerships between NAC and organisations such as Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa highlight the increasing involvement of private stakeholders in shaping a resilient cultural landscape. 

Alongside giving to the arts, public participation is also key in the cultivation of a sustainable arts sector. From 1 September 2025, the SG Culture Pass will grant all Singapore Citizens aged 18 and above $100 in credits to offset ticket costs for eligible local arts and heritage programmes, enabling more Singaporeans to experience and engage with the arts firsthand.

POAA 2025 recognises contributions made between 1 January and 31 December 2024 and is a celebration of our arts patrons. Come and join the making of a vibrant art ecosystem here.

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For more information, please refer to:

• Annex A: About POAA and Overview of Contributions [PDF, 93.37 KB] ↗ (opens in new tab)

• Annex B_List of POAA 2025 awardees [PDF, 82.56 KB] ↗ (opens in new tab)

High-resolution images for reporting can be found in the media kit here ↗ (opens in new tab).

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About National Arts Council 

The National Arts Council (NAC) is a statutory board under the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth that champions the arts in Singapore. The Council promotes artistic excellence by providing diverse opportunities for artists and arts organisations while expanding access for audiences to appreciate the impact of the arts in enriching lives. By working closely with the arts community and partners, the Council seeks to build a connected society, creative economy and distinctive city through the arts. For more information, visit NAC Website.