State creating ecosystem for startups, remote workers and digital creators: CM at ‘Shackathon’ launch
Drone innovators demonstrate cutting-edge aerial technology to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant at Goa Shackathon on Thursday.
MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday said Goa is steadily transforming from being known solely as a tourism destination into a growing hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity and flexible work culture, driven by the aspirations of the younger generation.
Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘Goa Shackathon – Work from Goa’ initiative at Baga beach, Sawant said the State is actively creating an ecosystem that supports startups, digital professionals and remote workers.
Addressing entrepreneurs, startup founders and innovators at the event, the Chief Minister said Goa’s natural environment and relaxed lifestyle make it an ideal destination for the emerging “work from anywhere” culture.
“The Gen Z looks at issues along fresh lines. From the typical office setup, Gen Z now wants flexibility, mental peace and an environment that sparks creativity. That opens huge opportunities for Goa. We are creating an environment for work-from-home and work-from-beach destinations where people can work with a beautiful view,” Sawant said.
He added that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Goa government is strengthening the State’s startup ecosystem through policy support, digital infrastructure and skill development initiatives.
“Today, 34 startups have already been registered and financial assistance worth Rs 4.10 crore has been utilised,” the Chief Minister said.
Sawant noted that the government is focusing on creating opportunities in emerging sectors such as technology, innovation, co-working ecosystems and creative industries, while also encouraging youth-led entrepreneurship.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the concept of “Work, Unwind and Repeat” perfectly reflects Goa’s evolving identity in the post-pandemic work culture.
“Goa has always been a preferred tourism destination. Today, the younger generation can work from anywhere. Work-from-home culture can become work-from-Goa. Many creative professionals have started working from Goa, contributing to the State’s economy and building local talent,” Khaunte said.
Highlighting Goa’s appeal as a destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs, he said the State possesses the “natural ingredients for creativity” and can emerge as a model for balancing work, lifestyle and innovation.
“Instead of working in closed cubicles, why not work in the open and fresh air? We want to create that culture,” he added.
The ‘Goa Shackathon – Work from Goa’ initiative is aimed at positioning Goa as a preferred destination for startups, remote workers, digital creators and young entrepreneurs seeking a blend of productivity, lifestyle and creativity.
The first day of the event, themed ‘Hustle and High Tides’, featured discussions on artificial intelligence, robotics, storytelling, communication and building companies from Goa.
On Friday, under the theme ‘Creators and Coastlines’, the focus will shift towards creators, designers, freelancers, students and media professionals.
The event was also graced by Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications Rohan Khaunte; MLA Bicholim and Chairman of InfoTech Corporation of Goa Limited Chandrakant Shetye; Calangute MLA Michael Lobo; Saligao MLA Kedar Naik; Secretary (Information Technology) Santosh Sukhadeve; Director (DITE&C) Kabir Shirgaonkar; Managing Director InfoTech Corporation of Goa Limited Praveen Volvotkar; along with senior government officials, industry experts, creators and participants from across the country.
