Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased/Privately Owned Premises Scheme
The Reimbursement of Expenses for Startups Operating from Leased/Privately Owned Premises Scheme is implemented by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC), Government of Goa under the Goa Start-up Policy. The scheme aims to support early-stage startups that operate from privately owned or rented premises instead of government-supported incubation centres or co-working spaces.
The primary objective of this scheme is to reduce operational expenses of startups, particularly costs related to internet connectivity, software licenses, cloud services, and rental expenses. By reimbursing part of these expenses, the Government of Goa seeks to create a supportive environment for startups to grow independently while contributing to the development of the local startup ecosystem. For you as a startup founder in Goa, this scheme can help offset infrastructure and operational costs during the early stages of your business.
Key Features
- Support for Operational Expenses - The scheme reimburses expenses related to internet connectivity, software licenses, and cloud services incurred by startups operating from either privately owned premises or rented offices. This ensures startups can maintain essential digital infrastructure.
- Reimbursement for Privately Owned Premises - Startups operating from their own premises can claim reimbursement for eligible operational expenses such as internet services, cloud services, and software licenses within the prescribed limits.
- Reimbursement for Startups in Rented Premises - Startups operating from leased premises are also eligible for reimbursement for internet connectivity, cloud services, and software licenses similar to startups using privately owned premises.
- Lease Rental Subsidy for Local Startups - Local startups operating from rented premises can receive an additional subsidy for lease rentals. This support helps reduce rental costs for startups that are locally owned and run.
- Quarterly Reimbursement - The scheme provides reimbursement on a quarterly basis, enabling startups to receive financial support regularly during the eligible period.
- Limited Number of Beneficiaries - The scheme supports a limited number of startups each year, with selection carried out by the Start-up Promotion Cell based on evaluation of applications.
Financial Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for benefits under the scheme, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
- The startup must be certified by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC) and possess a valid startup certificate number.
- The startup must operate from privately owned or rented premises, not from government-supported co-working spaces, incubators, or accelerators.
- The bank accounts of the company’s directors must be linked to Aadhaar.
- Only expenditures paid digitally are generally eligible for reimbursement (subject to SPC approval in special cases).
- Only expenses incurred after notification of the Goa Start-up Policy are eligible for reimbursement.
- The lease rental subsidy is applicable only for “Local Start-ups”, where at least 50% equity is held by one or more Goans continuously since the startup’s inception.
The definition of a Goan under the scheme may include persons born in Goa or individuals with long-term domicile in the state.
Documents Required
Key documents typically required include:
- Aadhaar card of Director / CEO
- Birth certificate, domicile certificate, or marriage certificate (for verifying Goan status where applicable)
- Valid registered lease agreement (if operating from rented premises)
- Proof of payment of lease rent
- Income tax filings showing rental payments
- Software license details and invoices
- Bills from authorised vendors for services
- Proof of payment for internet, cloud services, or software expenses
Application Process
Option 1: Apply with Bullit, Recommended
Start instantly with our guided application support, where our team verifies eligibility, prepares documentation, and coordinates with the Industries Department on your behalf. Using our business loans and compliance calendar, you can track progress while focusing on project execution, we manage the application end-to-end.
Option 2: Apply Online / Offline (Government Process)
Online Process
- Visit the official Start-up Promotion Cell portal.
- Register the startup and log in to the portal.
- Fill in the scheme application form with details of expenses and premises.
- Upload required supporting documents.
- Submit the application online.
- Receive acknowledgement of submission.
- The SPC evaluates the application and communicates approval or rejection.
Offline Process
- Obtain the prescribed application form from the Start-up Promotion Cell.
- Fill in details of the startup and expenses incurred.
- Attach supporting documents including invoices and lease agreements.
- Submit the completed application to the SPC office.
- Receive acknowledgement of submission.
- After evaluation, approved reimbursement is disbursed.
Applications must typically be submitted within six months of incurring the relevant expenditure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the objective of the scheme for startups operating from leased or privately owned premises?
The scheme aims to reduce operational expenses for startups by reimbursing costs related to internet connectivity, software licenses, cloud services, and rental expenses for eligible startups operating outside government incubation facilities.
Who implements this scheme in Goa?
The scheme is implemented by the Start-up Promotion Cell under the Government of Goa, which evaluates applications and disburses reimbursements.
Which startups can apply for this scheme?
Startups certified by the Start-up Promotion Cell and operating from privately owned or rented premises in Goa may apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
What expenses are covered under the scheme?
The scheme covers expenses related to internet connectivity, software licenses, cloud service subscriptions, and lease rentals for eligible startups.
What is the maximum reimbursement for operational expenses?
Startups may receive reimbursement for eligible expenses up to ₹1 lakh per quarter for a period of one year.
Is there additional support for rental expenses?
Yes, local startups operating from rented premises may receive lease rental subsidy up to ₹20 per square foot per month, subject to a maximum of ₹3 lakh per year.