“Goa’s government has launched a dynamic entrepreneurship support scheme, offering financial aid, incubation, and mentorship to startups. With over 635 startups registered, the state is positioning itself as India’s creative capital. The initiative includes Rs 10 lakh grants, salary subsidies, and AI-driven innovation hubs to boost local and global competitiveness.”
Goa’s New Entrepreneurship Scheme Ignites Startup Revolution
In a bold move to transform Goa into a hub for innovation, the state government has rolled out an ambitious entrepreneurship support scheme, announced by IT Minister Rohan Khaunte at the Goa Market Access Expo 2025. The initiative aims to nurture young entrepreneurs with structured financial assistance, including Rs 10 lakh in direct support, a Rs 15,000 monthly salary subsidy, and access to state-of-the-art incubation facilities. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant emphasized Goa’s potential, urging startups to “start in Goa and grow across India.”
As of June 2025, 635 startups from Goa are registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), with Rs 3.9 crore in incentives already disbursed to 147 beneficiaries. The scheme is part of a broader vision to establish Goa as India’s Creative Capital, with plans for a Global Capability Centre and a Centre of Excellence in AI and machine learning. These hubs aim to provide startups with cutting-edge technology and global exposure.
The Goa Market Access Expo 2025, held in June, showcased the state’s commitment to fostering innovation. Over 350 startups participated, engaging directly with government officials and industry leaders to address governance challenges in areas like waste management, agri-fintech, and tourism. The event highlighted Goa’s unique appeal as a “Social Capital,” where ideas, people, and purpose converge, as discussed in a panel titled Living the Startup Life, Differently: Why Founders Are Choosing Goa.
The state’s startup ecosystem is bolstered by robust infrastructure and a skilled workforce, with major IT players like Infosys, Wipro, and TCS already operating in Goa. The government is also integrating digital-first initiatives, such as AI-powered chatbots on the Goa Online platform, which has processed over 9.3 lakh service requests since 2017. Additionally, schemes like Digital Mahila Sashaktikaran and Drone Didi are empowering women entrepreneurs, ensuring inclusivity in the startup landscape.
To further support startups, the government has introduced relaxed regulatory compliance and tax incentives. The proposed State Data Centre will provide secure, scalable infrastructure for e-governance and business permissions, streamlining operations for emerging businesses. The Goa Open Innovation Challenge 2025 also offers mentorship and market access, enabling startups to test solutions in real-world scenarios.
Goa’s startup-friendly policies come at a time when India’s entrepreneurial landscape is shifting beyond metros. A recent TiE Bangalore report predicts that by 2035, over 50% of India’s startups will emerge from Tier 2 and 3 cities, with Goa leading the charge in coastal regions. The state’s focus on interdisciplinary entrepreneurship education, including AI and digital tools, aligns with national initiatives like Startup India and Make in India, positioning Goa as a testbed for innovation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and government announcements from sources like The Times of India, The Hindu, and PR Newswire. Information is accurate as of July 4, 2025, and subject to change based on official updates.