PANAJI
Goa’s efforts to position itself as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship took a significant step forward as the state hosted the globally renowned startup pitch show ‘Meet the Drapers’ on November 17 at the Aguada Museum.
Organised by the Department of IT, Electronics, and Communications (DITE&C) under the leadership of Minister Rohan Khaunte, the event provided a platform for entrepreneurs to connect with international investors and compete for funding of up to $1 million.
During the event, Minister Khaunte engaged in discussions with Tim Draper, the globally acclaimed venture capitalist, and his team. He emphasised Goa’s vision of becoming India’s IT hub and creative capital, inviting Draper to establish a Draper Startup House in the state. Draper responded positively, stating, “Goa is a beautiful place and an excellent environment for entrepreneurs. We are hopeful about creating a Draper Startup House here.”
The pitch day featured four promising startups:
- Goa App: A locally-based tourism platform offering tools for planning itineraries, discovering activities, renting vehicles, and exploring events to enhance visitors’ experiences in Goa.
- Avni Wellness: A women’s health brand specialising in sustainable period care, intimate care, and incontinence products, providing hygienic and reliable solutions.
- Samaaro: An event technology company incubated by FiiRE in Goa, offering tools to streamline event management, boost engagement, and maximise returns on investment.
- LarkAI: A health-tech startup from Karwar that uses AI to detect heart issues early, aiming to improve lives with prompt diagnosis and intervention for complex cardiopulmonary conditions.
Tim Draper shared insights into what venture capitalists seek in startups, including market potential, innovative technology, and dedicated teams. When asked about supporting women entrepreneurs, he remarked, “Entrepreneurs are entrepreneurs, not divided by sex.”
The event provided participants with valuable feedback, mentoring, and strategies for growth and scalability. It also highlighted the importance of such initiatives in connecting local startups with global opportunities, reinforcing Goa’s commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.
