Salary Reimbursement Scheme — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Salary Reimbursement Scheme — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding can I get from the Salary Reimbursement Scheme?
For fresh IT hires, you can get 50% of salary reimbursed, capped at ₹10,000 per month per recruit. For local workforce (60% locals), you can get 25% of salary reimbursed, capped at ₹25 lakh per year. Both options are available for up to 25 employees per month for 3 years, with a total maximum of ₹90 lakh.
What is the application deadline?
The scheme is rolling / always open. You can apply at any time after incurring relevant expenditure, bi-annually or annually.
Who is eligible to apply?
Startups must be certified by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC) of Goa with a valid certificate. Employees must be hired for at least 12 months. For fresher reimbursement, employees must be IT professionals. Both employees and directors must have Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. Only digitally paid expenses incurred after the Goa Start-up Policy 2017 notification are eligible.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required. The scheme specifically requires certification by the Start-up Promotion Cell (SPC) of Goa.
Does the program take equity?
No, this is a subsidy/reimbursement scheme. It does not take any equity stake in your startup.
How are applications selected?
The SPC reviews applications, verifies documents, and conducts due diligence. Only 100 startups per year can avail benefits. Selection is based on SPC guidelines, and approval or rejection is notified within 45 days of application receipt.
What documents are needed?
You will need to submit proof of SPC certification, Aadhaar-linked bank account details for employees and directors, salary payment proofs (digitally paid), and other documents as required by the application form. All documents must be self-attested if necessary.
How do I apply?
Visit the official Goa Startup Mission website (https://www.goastartupmission.com/), register with your email and mobile, fill in the application form for the Salary Reimbursement Scheme, upload required documents, and submit. Note the application reference number for tracking.
Can I claim for non-IT employees?
For the fresher reimbursement option (clause 3.1), only IT professionals are eligible. For the local workforce option (60% locals), there is no restriction on profession, but the employees must be local residents of Goa.
When will I receive the reimbursement?
Disbursement is made within 60 days from the date of SPC approval.
Who offers Salary Reimbursement Scheme?
Salary Reimbursement Scheme is offered by Goa Startup Mission, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.