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Business & Entrepreneurship; Science, IT & Communications

R&D Reimbursement Scheme

The scheme “R&D Reimbursement Scheme” is a part of the Start-up Policy 2017. The objective of the policy is to promote innovation amongst the Goans and local start-ups. 50% of R&D expenses, including salaries of PhD holders employed by start-ups, will be reimbursed for a period of two years.

Authority

State

Region

Goa

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

50% of R&D expenses, including salaries of PhD holders employed by startups, will be reimbursed for a period of two years, subject to a cap of ₹ 5,00,000 per annum. The salary component must not be in excess of ₹ 2,00,000. | Number of Slots | This benefit can be availed by a maximum of 100 startups each year. | Validity | The applicant can avail of the benefits of this scheme bi-annually/ annually. | Disbursal | Once the application is approved by the SPC, the approved amount shall be disbursed within 60 days from the date of approval. | NOTE: Under no circumstance shall the benefits under this scheme be considered an entitlement. The SPC shall reserve the sole right to accept or reject applications.

Who can apply

This is applicable only to Goans and local start-ups.; The applicant should be a local startup certified by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC).; The startup should have a valid start-up certificate number.; The employees whose salaries are to be reimbursed should be hired for a period of at least 12 months.; The employee whose salary is to be reimbursed should have a PhD or equivalent from a government-recognised institute.; The startup should be in the R&D stage and developing technology/ products in the domains specified in the Policy.; The startup should have a working prototype of the technology/ product.; Only expenditures incurred after notification of Goa Start-up Policy 2017, being within the validity of this policy and paid for digitally will be considered. If digital payments are not possible then it shall be up to the decision of SPC based on its due diligence to admit the expenditure.; Born in the State of Goa; or,; Person having domicile for 10 years or more in the State; or,; Spouse of a person covered under any of the conditions mentioned in (1.) and (2.), through marriages registered in Goa.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

Are there specific domains in which start-ups must be working to be eligible?

Yes, start-ups must be working on technology/products in domains specified in the Policy.

Is this benefit guaranteed for all eligible start-ups?

No, the benefits are not guaranteed; the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC) has the right to accept or reject applications.

What happens if an applicant is found guilty of misrepresentation or fraudulent activity?

The applicant may be prohibited from availing of benefits under this scheme and other schemes under the Goa Startup Policy 2017.

Are there any additional requirements for start-ups regarding research work?

Start-ups must provide a copy of their research work and proof of payment as per Cost and Accounting Standard 18.

Are there any restrictions on the types of expenses that can be reimbursed?

Only expenses incurred after the notification of Goa Start-up Policy 2017, within its validity, and paid digitally will be considered.

What role does the SPC play in the disbursement of claims?

The SPC is the competent authority to accept or reject any claims filed by start-ups, and its decision is final and binding.

When can approved amounts be disbursed?

Approved amounts are disbursed within 60 days from the date of approval.

How long does it take for the SPC to evaluate and approve/reject applications?

The SPC aims to notify approval or rejection within 45 days from the receipt of the application.

How often can start-ups avail of the benefits of this scheme?

Start-ups can avail of the benefits bi-annually or annually.

What is the timeline for claiming incentives under this scheme?

Start-ups can apply for this scheme at any time during the financial year, but only within 6 months of incurring the relevant expenditure.

Are there any additional criteria for eligibility under this scheme?

Yes, preference is given to start-ups that have applied for or obtained patents for their technology/products.

How is eligible expenditure towards R&D determined?

Eligible expenses are determined based on Accounting Standard 181 on Research and Development by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India.

How many start-ups can avail of this benefit each year?

A maximum of 100 start-ups can avail of this benefit each year.

What is the maximum annual cap for reimbursement of R&D expenses?

The maximum annual cap for reimbursement is INR 5 lakh per annum, with a salary component cap of INR 2 lakh.