Panaji: Goa’s startup and IT promotion cell launched the Goa Startup Accelerator Programme to empower high-potential Goan startups. The mentor-led initiative is designed to support 30 startups with high potential to scale and grow.The accelerator programme will support a curated cohort of 30 high-potential startups, including 25 startups officially registered in Goa and five startups from other states that operate in Goa. The program focuses on building and scaling local startups by offering structured mentorship and market access needed to grow their ventures.“We are addressing a key gap by moving beyond one-time incentives to provide structured and sustained support for startups,” said director of DITEC Kabir Shirgaonkar. Department officials said that startups will be selected through open applications and nominations from incubators and industry partners.“Once selected, startups will embark on a five-month journey featuring mentorship tracks across product development, technology, business development, market access, and fundraising,” said the official. The startups will be offered masterclasses by domain experts, one-on-one mentorship clinics, and culminate in a demo day, offering founders the opportunity to pitch to investors and corporates.“Goa’s long-term vision is to build a connected, visible, and outcome-driven startup ecosystem,” said Rohan Khaunte, minister for information technology.The department will monitor the progress of the startups on a real-time basis, mentor engagement, and outcome measurement.
