State witnesses rapid growth in women-led startups, sectoral diversification, and government-backed innovation initiatives
PANJIM, July 23, 2025 – Goa is rapidly emerging as a vibrant hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. From just 12 recognized startups in 2017, the state today hosts 651 DPIIT-recognized startups, marking a remarkable trajectory of growth. Notably, 310 of these startups are women-led, underscoring increasing diversity and inclusivity within the ecosystem.
The growth momentum has significantly accelerated in recent years:
118 new startups were added in 2023
143 new startups launched in 2024
105 startups have already been registered in the first half of 2025
These numbers include ventures recognized by DPIIT and those supported by the Startup & IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) under the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C).
Rising Stars Across Sectors
Goa’s startups are thriving in health-tech, EV mobility, legal-tech, tourism, clean energy, and smart infrastructure, with several gaining national and international recognition:
Spintly, a smart access control firm, has raised nearly ₹50 crore and expanded globally.
Contractzy, a legal-tech pioneer, developed a patented online dispute resolution platform.
BLive, evolving from an EV tourism venture to a full-stack EV ecosystem player, secured over ₹18 crore in funding.
Molbio Diagnostics, headquartered in Goa, became the state’s first unicorn with its molecular diagnostic platform.
Goa also houses India’s first commercial 3D printing facility, reinforcing its deep-tech capabilities.
Sectoral Snapshot
The state’s IT sector leads with 76 startups (23.46%), followed by Travel & Tourism with 45 startups (13.89%) and Healthcare & Life Sciences with 43 startups (13.27%), while others span emerging industries.
Policy-Driven Growth & Infrastructure Support
Goa’s growth is anchored by a robust state-led ecosystem under the leadership of Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for ITE&C. The Goa Startup and IT Policy provides financial support through seed grants, R&D incentives, lease reimbursements, and subsidies, along with:
6 incubators
2 venture studios
15+ co-working spaces
18 Atal Tinkering Labs
Fully equipped Maker’s Space
Flagship initiatives like the Goa Open Innovation Challenge and Goa Market Access Expo connect startups with government departments, investors, and industry experts, enabling them to move from ideation to pilots and scale.
Next Phase: Scaling High-Potential Startups
The recently launched Goa Startup Accelerator Program—a five-month mentor-led initiative—will support 30 startups (5 registered in Goa and 25 operating locally) with structured mentorship on product development, market access, fundraising, and business growth. Applications for the program opened on July 22, 2025, signaling a new phase in Goa’s startup journey.
With focused policies, sectoral depth, growing success stories, and strong government backing, Goa is not only scaling in numbers but also evolving as a mature, innovation-driven startup destination for entrepreneurs building for India and beyond.
About Goa Startup & IT Promotion Cell
The Goa Startup & IT Promotion Cell (SITPC) under the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications drives the state’s innovation economy through policy support, infrastructure, and funding assistance. It aims to position Goa as a preferred destination for startups and technology-driven enterprises.