Market Support Scheme for Smaller Business Units (State/ UT — Goa)

The Market Support Scheme for Smaller Business Units, introduced in 2018, operates under the Information Technology Policy Schemes of the Department of Information Technology, Government of Goa. Its purpose is to provide market assistance to eligible Information Technology Units based in Goa.

Under the scheme, such units receive reimbursement of 50% of the exhibition rental cost, capped at 9 square metres of space, for participation in national and international exhibitions. This measure forms part of Goa's broader IT Policy, which seeks to position the state as a favourable base for IT Units in terms of geography and human resources, thereby attracting investment and growth.

By reducing the financial load of market outreach, the scheme enables local IT businesses to raise their profile, connect with prospective partners and clients, and access new markets abroad.

1. **Register on the Goa Online Portal:** Navigate to the official website at goaonline.gov.in and select the "Register" option located in the top right corner. 2. **Verify Your Identity:** Authenticate your email address and mobile number using the OTPs sent to you. Upon successful verification, you will be taken to the registration page. 3. **Complete the Registration Form:** Provide all details marked as mandatory on the registration page. Create a login name and password, review and accept the declaration and terms and conditions, enter the captcha code, and then click "Register/Signup". 4. **Log In to the Portal:** Access the website by entering your chosen login name and password along with the captcha code. 5. **Locate the Scheme Application:** From the top ribbon, choose "Services" and then "IT Services". Search for and select the "Market Support Scheme for Smaller Business Units" to open its application form. 6. **Fill in and Upload Documents:** Complete every required field on the form and attach all necessary supporting documents. 7. **Submit the Application:** Once submitted, a unique registration number will be issued. Keep a record of this number for future correspondence.

**Important Note:** Submit your application at least 60 days before the exhibition you plan to attend to obtain pre-approval. After incurring the eligible expenses, you may apply for reimbursement on a quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly schedule.

The application undergoes an initial review, generally finished within 30 days of submission. It is then placed before the Empowered Committee for its approval. The committee's verdict, together with the sending of regret letters or sanction orders and the release of funds, typically takes place within 90 days from the date the application was received.