The National Arts Council (NAC) recognised the highest-ever number of 515 patrons at the Patron of the Arts Awards (POAA) 2025. Held at Pan Pacific Singapore and officiated by Mr David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, and Senior Minister of State for Education, the ceremony spotlighted the collective strength of individual and corporate giving in sustaining the nation’s cultural ecosystem.
This year’s contributions totalled $45.74 million with $28 million in cash and $17 million in kind. Corporates continued to anchor support with over $30 million (68% of the total), while individual giving surged, making up 32% (over $15 million) of contributions.
Rising Personal Engagement with the Arts
A record 412 individual patrons, 80% of all awardees, were recognised this year, including 155 first-time donors. Beyond financial support, many contributed through donations of artworks, educational programmes, venues, and mentorship.
- Distinguished Patron of the Arts Sui Ning was honoured for his gift to the Yong Siew Toh Master of Music Scholarship Fund.
- Eric Cabri van Amelrode Beng Kwee K Lim, also named Distinguished Patron, donated works by Cultural Medallion recipients Chua Ek Kay and Chng Seok Tin to the National Gallery Singapore, preserving their legacies for future generations.
Corporate Support with Community Impact
Corporate donors contributed over $30 million, funding initiatives that promote inclusion, youth development, and mental well-being.
- UOL-PPHG, a Distinguished Patron, supported Artability, Rainbow Centre’s visual arts training for youths, and exhibitions showcasing differently abled artists.
- Orchard Turn Developments Pte Ltd, a Patron of the Arts, backed senior-focused initiatives, including an exhibition by 20 seniors from Lion Befrienders Active Ageing Centres paired with digital literacy workshops.
Building a Sustainable Arts Ecosystem
Contributions recognised at POAA also extended resources to smaller and emerging arts groups.
- CapitaLand Retail Management activated four malls as art venues, expanding reach into everyday spaces.
- Dean Augustine, Friend of the Arts, provided in-kind PR and marketing support for concerts inspired by Elden Ring and Stardew Valley.
- Elmwood Grove Private Limited offered tax and accounting expertise to Raw Moves Ltd, strengthening back-end support for the group.
Looking ahead, NAC will roll out new initiatives to catalyse giving: combining data insights, thought leadership, and capability building to ensure long-term resilience for the arts. These efforts build on existing partnerships such as the Sustain the Arts (stART) Fund and collaborations with Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.
Expanding Public Participation
Alongside philanthropy, public access to the arts remains a key focus. From 1 September 2025, all Singapore Citizens aged 18 and above will receive a $100 SG Culture Pass to offset ticket costs for eligible local arts and heritage programmes, encouraging greater community participation.
Learn how you can support the arts: NAC Giving to the Arts
