THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Goa government has advanced funding support for 15 startups under its Startup Policy 2025, while simultaneously investing Rs 40 lakh to create four new incubation centres in higher educational institutions, signalling a push to deepen the state's startup ecosystem.
With this, the DPIIT-recognised start-ups have currently touched over 350.
The decisions were taken at the 11th meeting of the Empowered Committee, chaired by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, that evaluated applications shortlisted under the Seed Capital Grant Scheme after scrutiny by the Expert Committee.
The Startup and IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) had received 26 applications under the scheme, of which 15 startups were recommended for consideration by the Empowered Committee following technical evaluation.
The shortlisted startups, representing sectors including artificial intelligence, health technology, product development, media technology, content creation and food and beverages, presented their business ideas before the committee. The proposals were assessed on feasibility, innovation, scalability, revenue model and long-term sustainability.
Addressing the meeting, Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Minister Rohan Khaunte said the Seed Capital Grant Scheme was intended to remove early financial barriers for startups and enable founders to focus on scaling their businesses.
“Goa's startup ecosystem had matured with companies such as Molbio Diagnostics and Spintly demonstrating the state's ability to nurture globally competitive ventures. Through policies, incubation, mentorship and financial assistance, we're ensuring our startups get the right support and funding at the right time,” he said.
The scheme, introduced under the Goa Startup Policy 2025, provides one-time financial assistance of up to Rs 10 lakh to startups that have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
Officials said the grants were aimed at expanding institutional support for entrepreneurship and innovation while strengthening the state's startup ecosystem through academic incubation infrastructure.
