Panaji: Goa is positioning itself as an emerging destination for technology companies by combining business incentives with a work environment focused on employee retention and quality of life.
Through the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, the state’s IT Policy aims to develop Goa as the Creative Capital of India, with a focus on sectors such as artificial intelligence, data science, blockchain, 3D printing and robotics.
Under ITE&C Minister Rohan Khaunte, the government is promoting Goa as an investment destination for technology businesses while also targeting the development of an advanced, employment ready local workforce. The state has set a goal of preparing 10,000 Goans with advanced IT skills.
The policy provides financial support at several stages of setting up and expanding a business. Companies purchasing land for IT office space can receive a one time rebate of ₹40,000 per male employee and ₹50,000 per female employee, subject to specified limits. Businesses purchasing built up office space can receive a rebate of up to 20% of the purchase cost.
New and existing units can also claim up to 50% reimbursement on annual lease rentals for two years. The reimbursement can rise to 60% when women account for at least 30% of the workforce.
Additional support is available for Goan diaspora entrepreneurs, including lease rental assistance and a capital investment subsidy.
Eligible new units can receive capital investment subsidies of up to 20%, with additional support for mega business units. The policy also provides subsidies for electricity and high speed internet costs, along with incentives for companies using solar power.
Hiring incentives include salary matching grants of up to ₹10,000 per month for freshers and ₹12,500 for female freshers for two years. Recruitment assistance is also available for companies hiring through campus placements in Goa.
The policy links incentive payouts to local employment, with companies employing more Goans receiving higher levels of benefits.
Together, these measures are designed to reduce the cost of establishing and operating technology businesses while encouraging investment, innovation and employment within Goa.
