The “Internet Subsidy Scheme” was introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa as part of Goa’s Information Technology Policy. Launched in 2018, the scheme aims to promote IT-based businesses in Goa by providing financial assistance to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The scheme focuses on reimbursing 25% of the high-speed internet bandwidth costs for eligible units.
The subsidy is available for both new and existing IT units operating in Goa, including businesses that are registered under various legal structures such as private limited companies, partnerships, etc. The subsidy can be availed for three years from the commencement of operations or policy notification, whichever is later.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• Launched by: Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa
• Objective: To promote IT businesses and reduce internet costs for MSMEs
• Reimbursement: 25% of high-speed bandwidth cost, up to a maximum of ₹5,00,000 per annum
• Eligibility: New and existing MSMEs operating in Goa
• Duration: Subsidy can be availed for 3 years
• Exclusions: Units receiving similar subsidies from other Goa policies are not eligible
Benefits
• 25% reimbursement on high-speed internet charges
• Maximum limit: ₹5,00,000 per annum
• The subsidy can be availed for three years from the commencement of operations or the policy notification, whichever is later.
• Budgetary constraints: Benefits are subject to annual budget allocation; if the allocation is exceeded, no benefits will be provided.
Eligibility
• The applicant must be a Micro, Small, or Medium Enterprise (MSME).
• The unit must have operations based in Goa.
• Eligible entities include:
-
Proprietorship firms
-
Private limited companies
-
Public limited companies
-
Registered partnership firms
-
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)
• Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of the unit and/or its partner(s) or director(s) must be provided.
• The unit should not have pending dues with any government agency, KSUM, or other incubators in the state.
Application Process
Online
-
Registration Process:
-
Visit the official Goa Online portal.
-
Click “Register” on the top right corner.
-
Fill in the mandatory details (Name, DOB, Aadhaar Number, etc.), create a Login Name and Password, and click “Register”.
-
-
Login:
-
Log in using the Login Name and Password.
-
-
Form Filling:
-
Navigate to “Schemes” > “IT Services” and select the Internet Subsidy Scheme.
-
Fill in the application form and submit.
-
-
Upload Documents:
-
After filling the form, upload all the necessary documents (e.g., Udyog Aadhaar, GST registration, internet bills, etc.).
-
-
Submission:
-
Once the application is complete, click “Submit Application”.
-
You will receive a unique registration number for reference.
-
-
Tracking Application:
-
The status of your application can be checked online through the Goa Online portal.
-
Documents Required
• Incorporation certificate of the enterprise
• New unit registration document or certificate
• Copies of PAN, Aadhaar, and GST TIN
• Memorandum and Articles of Association
• First sale bill or commencement of operations proof
• Internet bills for the period of subsidy claim
• Proof of payment of internet bills
• Udyog Aadhaar registration document
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the maximum annual reimbursement for high-speed bandwidth under the scheme?
A: The maximum reimbursement is ₹5,00,000 per annum.
Q: How long can the subsidy be availed?
A: The subsidy can be availed for three years from the commencement of operations or policy notification.
Q: How does budgetary allocation affect the benefits?
A: If the budget allocation is exceeded, benefits may be discontinued, and no promises will be made to applicants.
Q: How often will units be assessed for eligibility?
A: Units will be evaluated at the end of each fiscal year to confirm continued eligibility.
Q: What types of enterprises are eligible for the subsidy?
A: MSMEs that are registered in Goa and meet the legal eligibility requirements.
Q: What documents are required for the application?
A: Incorporation certificate, GST registration, internet bills, and other supporting documents.
Q: Can an applicant claim subsidies if they have previously received benefits under other Goa policies?
A: No, units already availing benefits under other Goa government policies are not eligible for this scheme.