The Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Reimbursement Scheme is an initiative by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Goa. Introduced under the Goa Start-up Policy 2017, this scheme aims to support startups in protecting their innovations by reimbursing part of the cost incurred in registering national and international Intellectual Property (IP). The goal is to foster a strong IP culture and build a robust startup ecosystem in Goa.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• Implemented by: Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC), Goa
• Scheme under: Goa Start-up Policy 2017
• Reimbursement Type: One-time, on successful IP registration
• Reimbursement Cap: ₹2,00,000 for national IP; ₹5,00,000 for international IP
• Application Window: Within 6 months of incurring IP-related expenses
• Approval Time: Within 45 days from receipt of application
• Disbursal: Within 60 days post approval
Benefits
• 50% reimbursement of expenses incurred in successful national/international IP registration
• Reimbursement capped at ₹2,00,000 for national IP and ₹5,00,000 for international IP
• Maximum of 200 startups can benefit each year
• Approved amount disbursed within 60 days from date of approval
• One-time reimbursement for each IP application
Note: Reimbursement subject to budget availability and SPC recommendation. Not an entitlement.
Eligibility
• Must be a certified startup by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC), Goa
• IP should be related to a technology-based product/service
• Startup must have filed or been granted IP by the competent authority
• Only expenses paid digitally after notification of Goa Start-up Policy 2017 will be considered
• Applicant must not have claimed reimbursement under any other central/state scheme for the same IP
Application Process
Online
• Step 1: Visit the Goa Startup Portal
• Step 2: Register using email and mobile number with OTP verification
• Step 3: Create a Login ID and Password
• Step 4: Login and navigate to the scheme
• Step 5: Fill the application form and upload required documents
• Step 6: Submit and note the reference number for tracking
OR
Offline
• Step 1: Download and print the application proforma
• Step 2: Fill and attach required self-attested documents
• Step 3: Email the completed application to [email protected]
Note: Applications must be submitted within 6 months of incurring expenses.
Evaluation Process
• SPC verifies the submitted documents and scrutinizes expenses
• Application is reviewed and approved/rejected within 45 days
• Approved reimbursement disbursed within 60 days of approval
Documents Required
• Copy of IP Registration Certificate
• Original proof of payment: Invoices & receipts from government authorities or legal counsel
• Detailed expense statement related to IP registration
• Filled application form as per Annexure 1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What happens if the expenses exceed the reimbursement limit?
A: The scheme reimburses only up to ₹2,00,000 (national) or ₹5,00,000 (international), even if actual expenses are higher.
Q: Are there specific technology categories encouraged under this scheme?
A: IP related to any technology-based service/product or enhancing an existing one using technology is eligible.
Q: How is the reimbursement amount determined?
A: Based on eligible documented expenses reviewed by the SPC.
Q: What are the document requirements?
A: IP registration proof, detailed expense statement, original payment receipts, and application form (Annexure 1).
Q: What is SPC’s role in this process?
A: SPC certifies startups, reviews applications, verifies expenses, and approves reimbursements.
Q: How long does SPC take to approve/reject applications?
A: Within 45 days of application receipt.
Q: When can applicants apply for the scheme?
A: Anytime during the year, but within 6 months of incurring IP-related expenses.
Q: What expenses are eligible for reimbursement?
A: Digital payments towards official/government fees and attorney charges.
Q: Can a startup apply if it has received IP grant under another scheme?
A: No, such applications will be rejected.
Q: How soon after approval is the amount disbursed?
A: Within 60 days of approval by SPC.