The “Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased/Privately Owned Premises Scheme” is introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Goa. This scheme supports Goan startups by reimbursing costs associated with internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud service fees. The aim is to help reduce the financial burden on startups during their establishment phase, encouraging their growth and innovation.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
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Benefits:
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Reimbursement of internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud service fees up to ₹1,00,000 per quarter for one year.
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Additional Benefits for Local Startups:
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Lease rental subsidy of up to ₹20 per square foot per month for two years, subject to a cap of ₹3,00,000 per annum.
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Up to 25 startups can avail of this benefit each year, subject to eligibility.
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Eligibility:
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All startups certified by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) with a valid certificate number.
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Local Startups with at least 50% equity held by Goans.
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Startups not using government co-working spaces/ incubators/ accelerators.
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Benefits
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For startups operating from privately owned premises:
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Reimbursement for internet connectivity, software license, and cloud services fees, capped at ₹1,00,000 per quarter for one year.
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For startups operating from rented premises:
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Reimbursement for internet connectivity, software license, and cloud service fees, capped at ₹1,00,000 per quarter for one year.
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Lease rental subsidy of ₹20 per square foot per month, with a cap of ₹3,00,000 per annum, available for two years.
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Eligibility
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Certified Startups: Only startups certified by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC) with a valid startup certificate.
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Local Startups: Startups where at least 50% equity is held by Goans.
Note: Only expenditures incurred after the Goa Start-up Policy 2017 notification will be considered for reimbursements, and payments must be digitally processed.
Exclusions
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Startups using government-developed co-working spaces or incubators are not eligible.
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Non-local startups (those without at least 50% Goan equity) cannot apply.
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Purchase of land from KIADB/KSSIDC or other government agencies is excluded.
Application Process
Online
Registration Process:
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Visit the official Goa Startup Mission website.
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Verify your Email ID and Mobile Number using OTP.
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Complete the registration form with mandatory details.
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Create a Login Name and a strong Password.
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Login to the portal using the credentials created.
Application Process:
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After logging in, fill in the application form.
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Upload the required documents and submit the application.
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The application reference number will be issued for tracking purposes.
Alternatively, applicants can download the application form in proforma, fill it in, and email it to [email protected].
Documents Required
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Aadhaar card of the Director/CEO.
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Birth Certificate, Domicile Certificate, or Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
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Lease Deed and proof of payment for the leased premises.
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Income Tax filings showing rent amount.
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Software License Details.
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Original bills for software, internet, and cloud services.
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Bank Account Details for payment disbursement.
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Other documents as per Annexure 1.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of expenses that can be reimbursed?
A: Yes, only expenses related to internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud services fees are reimbursed.
Q: Can a startup apply for this scheme retroactively for expenses incurred before the Goa Start-up Policy 2017?
A: No, only expenses incurred after the notification of the Goa Start-up Policy 2017 will be considered.
Q: What are the conditions for qualifying as a “Local Startup”?
A: A local startup is defined as one in which at least 50% equity/share is held by one or more Goans.
Q: Can startups availing benefits from other schemes apply?
A: No, startups availing benefits under other government startup schemes are not eligible for this scheme.
Q: What is the maximum subsidy for rented premises?
A: For rented premises, the lease rental subsidy can go up to ₹3,00,000 per annum for two years.
Q: How is the reimbursement disbursed?
A: Reimbursement is made quarterly for eligible expenses.