AI SummaryReimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased or Privately Owned Premises Scheme supports entrepreneurs in Goa by covering essential operational costs. Startups can get money help for internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud service expenses. The scheme also offers a lease rental subsidy for eligible local startups working from rented premises. It is run under the Goa Startup Policy and is open for applications through the Goa Online portal.
Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased or Privately Owned Premises Scheme - Introduction
Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased or Privately Owned Premises Scheme is a supportive program made for startups in Goa. The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Goa, manages this scheme. It is implemented by the Start-up Information Technology Promotion Cell (SITPC). The scheme gives cash support by paying back costs related to internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud services for local business entities.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased or Privately Owned Premises Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Infra |
| Beneficiary State | Goa |
| Category | Business & Entrepreneurship |
| Target Beneficiaries | Business Entity |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications |
Benefits
This scheme gives cash relief for operational expenses of startups. A startup can claim either the operational expense reimbursement or the lease rental subsidy at any given time, not both together. Benefits are subject to approval by the SITPC and are not an automatic entitlement.
For Startups in Privately Owned or Rented Premises:
- Internet, software license, and cloud service costs can be reimbursed up to ₹ 1,00,000 per quarter for a period of one year.
- The SITPC selects 20 startups each year for this support based on its guidelines.
Additional Support for Rented Premises:
- Local startups renting space may get a lease rental subsidy of up to ₹ 20 per square foot each month.
- This subsidy is paid quarterly for up to two years.
- The total incentive is capped at ₹ 3,00,000 per annum for up to 25 selected startups each year.
Eligibility
An applicant must be a SITPC-certified startup with a valid startup certificate number. The startup should not operate from any government-developed co-working space, incubator, or accelerator. The bank accounts of the Directors of the company must be linked to Aadhaar.
The lease rental subsidy is available only to Local Startups and only for a period of two years. Only digitally paid expenditure incurred after the notification of the Goa Startup Policy and within the policy validity is considered for reimbursement. In case digital payment is not possible, the SITPC may admit the expenditure as per its guidelines.
Local Startup Criteria: to qualify as a Local Startup, at least 50% of the equity or shareholding must be held by one or more Goans continuously since the starting of the business.
Who is a Goan: a person qualifies as a Goan if born in Goa, domiciled in Goa for at least 10 years, or the spouse of such a person through a marriage registered in Goa.
Application Process
Online Application Process
STEP 1 - Open the Goa Online portal and go to the startup login section. The official apply link for this scheme is available on the Startup Goa Incentives page.
STEP 2 - Verify the email and mobile number using OTP, then fill in the registration details and set a secure password.
STEP 3 - Log in to the dashboard and find the application form for the Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased or Privately Owned Premises Scheme.
STEP 4 - Upload all required documents and submit the form. Keep the reference number for tracking the application.
Offline Process
STEP 1 - Download the proforma form and fill it out completely.
STEP 2 - Attach all necessary documents and email the scanned copies to the SITPC.
Deadline Note: the application should be submitted within 6 months of incurring the expenditure. The SITPC notifies the outcome within 45 days.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready before starting the application:
- Aadhaar card copy of the Director or CEO.
- Goan Domicile or 10-year residence certificate.
- Valid registered Lease Deed.
- Proof of rent or lease payments.
- Proof of payment for internet, software, and cloud charges.
- Software license details.
- Bills and invoices from certified vendors.
- Address proof of the operational office in Goa.
- Cancelled cheque of the startup.
Make sure the bank accounts are linked to Aadhaar before applying.
References
FAQ's
Are there limits on which expenses I can claim?
Yes, only internet connectivity, software license fees, and cloud services can be claimed, within the set quarterly limits.
When is the application deadline?
The application should be submitted within 6 months from the date the expenditure was incurred.
Can I claim for old expenses?
No, only expenditure incurred after the notification of the Goa Startup Policy and within the policy validity is eligible.
What if I cannot pay digitally?
If digital payment is not possible, the SITPC may admit the expenditure as per its guidelines.
How long does it take for funds to be disbursed?
Once approved, the funds are usually paid within 60 days of the approval date.
What happens if I provide false information?
Providing false information can lead to permanent disqualification from all schemes under the Goa Startup Policy.