Martin Ong, an Icon of Change from Singapore

Icons of Change International Awards 2025

Martin Ong
Partner at Silverbear Capital Inc., New York
Board Member at City Harvest Community Services Association, Singapore

SDG Focus: Sustainable Development Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Global Excellence in Strategic Partnerships and Cross-Border Investment

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In an era where the velocity of capital and ideas defines geopolitical influence and economic opportunity, Martin Ong has emerged as a distinguished figure whose contributions have continuously advanced inclusive and sustainable development through high-trust partnerships and resilient cross-border strategies.

A seasoned executive and strategic advisor with over 30 years of multi-sector experience, Martin Ong has consistently demonstrated a rare ability to navigate the ever-evolving intersections of finance, international trade, and public-private collaboration. His body of work demonstrates a visionary approach to bridging regional aspirations with global capital, underpinned by values of integrity, long-term impact, and shared prosperity.

As a Partner at SilverBear Capital Inc., Martin plays a pivotal role in connecting capital with purpose—curating investment and funding structures that drive growth for companies across diverse verticals including infrastructure, energy, fintech, and emerging technologies. His unique position as a trusted advisor to both capital allocators and enterprise leaders has made him an indispensable conduit for sustainable global investment.

At the helm of Zion Capital Advisory, an MAS-registered advisory boutique headquartered in Singapore, Martin continues to steward financial transactions and capital restructuring initiatives that support economic inclusion and good governance. Under his leadership, Zion Capital has advised an impressive range of clients, including publicly listed corporations, SMEs, and strategic family offices. Through these engagements, he champions the core tenets of SDG 17: promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration and amplifying global partnerships to meet national and regional development targets.

A testament to his entrepreneurial ethos, Martin is also the founder of the First Automobile Group, which has exported over 10,000 vehicles to more than 20 countries—a feat that has not only driven trade but has also enhanced the logistical capabilities and commercial infrastructure of emerging economies.

Martin’s corporate stewardship extends to his service as Board Member of Asiel Advisory Pte. Ltd., a multi-dimensional advisory firm operating across Singapore, the Philippines, and the UAE. In this capacity, he supports institutional clients in navigating the nuanced terrains of corporate finance, governance structuring, and innovation-led transformation. His efforts have played a key role in shaping responsible business models attuned to both global market pressures and local socio-economic dynamics.