Lease Rental Subsidy Scheme

The Lease Rental Subsidy Scheme, introduced in 2018 by the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa, forms part of the state’s Information Technology Policy. It seeks to position Goa as a favourable location for IT companies, both in terms of geography and human resources, while encouraging investment and business growth within the state.

The scheme’s main purpose is to reduce the cost of office accommodation for eligible IT units through substantial rental subsidies. It applies to both new and existing IT businesses that have set up, or intend to set up, operations in Goa. In doing so, it aims to support economic development and create local employment in the technology sector. Through these financial incentives for leasing office space, the government intends to foster an environment conducive to IT innovation and enterprise, consistent with its broader goal of becoming a preferred destination for IT investment.

- **Step 1: Register on the Goa Online Portal** – Go to the official Goa Online website and select “Register”. Verify your email address and mobile number using the OTP sent to you. - **Step 2: Complete Registration** – Fill in every required field on the registration page, choose a Login Name and Password, read and accept the Declaration and Terms & Conditions, and then click “Register/Signup”. - **Step 3: Log In** – Access the portal using your chosen Login Name and Password, along with the Captcha Code. - **Step 4: Find the Scheme** – From the top ribbon, choose “Services”, then go to “IT Services”. Locate and select the Lease Rental Subsidy Scheme. - **Step 5: Submit the Application** – Complete all mandatory sections of the online form and attach the necessary documents. Once submitted, a unique registration number will be generated for future reference. - **Timing Note** – Applications may be filed quarterly, bi-annually, or annually, depending on when the relevant expenditure was incurred.

Applications are first checked against a defined checklist, usually within 30 days of receipt. After this initial review, the file goes to an Empowered Committee for approval, a step that generally concludes within 60 days from the date the application was received. Once approved, sanction orders are issued and the subsidy is disbursed, typically around 90 days from receipt of the application.

In addition, each applicant unit is assessed at the close of every fiscal year or instalment period. This evaluation confirms that the unit still meets the scheme’s eligibility criteria for continued subsidy payments.