Goa Launches Startup Accelerator Program to Boost Local Entrepreneurship
Goa is stepping up its game in the startup world. The Govt. of Goa just launched the Startup Accelerator Program to support 30 local startups with expert mentorship, funding access & a chance to pitch on Demo Day!
New Initiative Aims to Nurture High-Potential Startups Across the State
In a significant move to strengthen the state’s startup ecosystem, the Government of Goa has announced the launch of the Goa Startup Accelerator Program, a structured, mentor-led initiative aimed at supporting startups during their growth phase.
The announcement was made by Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa’s Minister for Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications.
About the Goa Startup Accelerator Program
Led by the Startup and IT Promotion Cell under the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), the accelerator program is designed to empower Goan startups through tailored mentorship, strategic partnerships, and growth opportunities.
The program will support a cohort of 30 startups, including:
- 25 startups registered in Goa
- 5 startups operating in Goa but not yet registered
Focused Support for Startup Growth
Startups selected for the program will go through a 5-month acceleration journey, which will include:
- Mentorship tracks in product development, technology, business development, market access, and fundraising
- Masterclasses by industry experts
- One-on-one mentorship clinics
- A final Demo Day where founders pitch to investors and corporates
Startups will be chosen via open applications and nominations from incubators and industry partners.
Vision for a Unified Startup Ecosystem
Minister Khaunte emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation for innovation in the state:
“Goa’s long-term vision is to build a connected, visible, and outcome-driven startup ecosystem,” he said. “The Accelerator is designed to unify Goa’s startup community and enable performance tracking and meaningful engagement. This program is a major step forward in positioning Goa as a leading hub for innovation.”
Structured, Sustainable Support Beyond Incentives
Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C, highlighted the program’s long-term value:
“We are addressing a key gap by moving beyond one-time incentives to provide structured, sustained support for startups. The program will include a dashboard for real-time progress tracking, mentor engagement, and outcome measurement.”
This digital platform aims to continuously support and evolve the ecosystem of Goan startups.
Part of a Larger Innovation-Driven Agenda
The Goa Startup Accelerator Program is part of the state government’s broader mission to:
- Promote innovation-driven entrepreneurship
- Create job opportunities
- Scale local economic impact
Through the implementation of the Goa Startup and IT Policy, the government continues to make strides toward becoming a vibrant destination for startups and investors alike.
