Goa Tycoon - September Issue 2025

Tycoon

Navigating the business and startup landscape in Goa Volume 4

9

COVER FEATURE

RS AutoTech

Rahul Chandwani’s passiondriven automotive hub blends family values, tech, and ambition.

Surprise Crafterz

Saidatta Tilve crafts emotional, personalized events, redefining celebrations in Goa and beyond.

Tarini

Panjim store celebrates feminine strength, tradition, and nature through authentic, handcrafted home linen.

Pastel Lane

Abhishek and Sunidhi create sustainable, creative lifestyle accessories, showcasing passion and innovation.

hotel Lua Nova

If holidays are inspired by nature and your thirst for rustic solitude and inner peace, Lua Nova is the hotel your heart was yearning for.

Located at Goa's celebrated holiday capital at Baga, it overlooks a beautiful Canvas of village Goa, just 5 minutes walk from the Baga Beach.

Welcome to this month’s edition of Goa Innovators, where we celebrate remarkable individuals and businesses reshaping Goa’s entrepreneurial landscape through passion, creativity, and vision.

Our cover story highlights Rahul Chandwani’s RS AutoTech, an automotive hub born from passion over profit. Rahul’s journey blends family values, cutting-edge technology, and fearless ambition, inspiring entrepreneurs to follow instincts, take risks, and fuel their dreams.

We also explore Surprise Crafterz, founded by Saidatta Tilve, which pioneers personalized, emotion-driven events in Goa. From crafting proposals to unforgettable celebrations, their creativity, authenticity, and passion make every moment special, with plans to expand beyond Goa’s borders.

Tarini, based in Panjim, is a celebration of feminine strength, nature, and tradition. Offering handcrafted home linen and serene experiences, Tarini combines quality designs with authentic craft, aiming for future expansion while honoring everyday beauty.

In the world of lifestyle accessories, Pastel Lane, founded by Abhishek and Sunidhi,

offers unique, high-quality products. Their focus on creativity, sustainability, and innovative growth reflects their passion for making meaningful, functional designs.

OneBoard, founded by Ryan, stands apart by providing ethical, authentic travel experiences in Goa. Fighting tourist exploitation and supporting local communities, OneBoard leverages technology to create seamless, genuine adventures.

This issue also sheds light on Goa’s thriving startup ecosystem, driven by innovations in AI, green technology, blockchain, IoT, and EdTech. Despite funding and infrastructure challenges, these startups continue to transform industries, promote sustainability, and foster innovation across the state.

Finally, we emphasize the power of localized marketing in Goa. By embracing local festivals, culture, language, and community connections, small businesses build loyal customers and stand out from larger competitors in the state’s diverse market.

As we reflect on these inspiring stories, it becomes evident that Goa is home to a vibrant community of individuals who are pushing boundaries and making a difference across industries. Their dedication to innovation and sustainability.

Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of Goa Tycoon. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Warm regards,

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

01 RS AutoTech

02 Surprise Crafterz 03 Tarini 04 Pastel Lane

05 OneBoard

06 Green Entrepreneurship

07 Emerging Technologies Shaping the Startup Landscape in Goa

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palm-fringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivals - Carnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivalsthe International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, UK, USA, etc.

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Sales

Donald Fernandez

Content & Social Media

Saviola Dias

Renata Fernandes

Graphics & Layout

Latisha Govekar

For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email: mail@itsgoa.com Website: itsgoa.com

cover feature

RS AutoTech

Rahul Chandwani’s RS AutoTech, born from passion over profit, has grown into Goa’s trusted automotive hub. Blending family values, cutting-edge tech, and fearless ambition, Rahul’s journey inspires entrepreneurs to take risks, follow instincts, and fuel their dreams.

At first glance, Rahul Chandwani might seem like your typical car enthusiast, but spend five minutes talking to him, and you’ll realise he’s someone who turned passion into purpose. The founder of RS AutoTech, Rahul, took a road less travelled, from civil engineering to carving a niche in Goa’s thriving automotive scene. His story is one of grit, instinct, and a deep love for machines

When you walk into RS AutoTech, it doesn’t feel like just another car parts shop. There’s an energy in the air of grease, part grit, and a whole lot of passion. Some businesses begin with a plan. This one began with passion.

Born into a family deeply rooted in business, he chose civil engineering. But somewhere between pouring concrete and site plans, he kept getting pulled back to his true love: cars, bikes, and jeeps.

And that family spirit runs through the business. Built from scratch in just 20 days, with parts sourced in the next 10, the store was up and running within a month. A push from his father, who believed in him enough to speed things up.

Earning Trust, Not Just Profits

Like many young entrepreneurs, stepping into an industry full of veterans wasn’t easy. “I was just a young guy trying to enter a space filled with older, experienced players. Getting them to take me seriously was the first challenge.”

But his approach was clear from day one: earn trust by doing what’s right, not what’s easy. “We don’t sell what sells.

We sell what’s needed. It might bring in less profit sometimes, but it builds long-term relationships.”

Today, RS AutoTech is proud to serve almost half of Goa’s supercar owners for tyres and alignments, a quiet but powerful validation of trust earned over time.

Machines Matter, Especially Now

In an age where skilled labour is hard to come by, machinery plays an even bigger role. “We invest heavily in tech. Even for something as small as opening a single nut, we have machines that cut down service time.”

Keeping up with international standards, constantly calibrating equipment, and upgrading setups has become essential. “That’s how we stay competitive. It’s not just about speed, it’s about precision.”

Going Beyond Goa

While the roots are in Goa, RS AutoTech’s reach now extends far beyond. Thanks to social media and a growing online presence, orders have been shipped to towns as far as Shillong and Meghalaya.

“We’ve sent 13 or 14 sets of alloy wheels to remote areas. That kind of reach wouldn’t have been possible without technology,” he says. “Word of mouth helps, but it’s limited. Today, visibility matters more than ever.”

With that kind of demand, work-life balance is a challenge “You never know when a query comes in, even at midnight. We’ve set up automated messages now, but customer satisfaction is a priority.”

What helps him unwind are beach weekends with family and off-roading. “It started with one ride in a Bolero. I was just in the passenger seat, but something about it stayed with me.” Today, he owns 7 to 8 custom jeeps, each modified for different terrains - from jungle trails to technical climbs. “It’s not just a hobby anymore. It’s therapy.”

Leadership That Listens

At RS AutoTech, leadership doesn’t mean control. “Everyone here manages their own department. We’re all on the same page, but no one is micromanaged. Everyone’s opinion matters.”

That trust, he believes, is why the team works as one unit. “When your team feels ownership, the business grows naturally.”

Looking Ahead

The road ahead is exciting and full of change. As car technologies evolve rapidly, RS AutoTech is gearing up to stay future-ready.

“Our goal is to widen our reach, open more branches, both in Goa and outside,and keep upgrading our setup to match what’s coming.”

One Last Word: Just Try

For anyone sitting on the fence about starting something of their own, he has simple advice: “Take the risk. Just try.” “I started in civil engineering. Today, I’m in the automotive world. You never know what might click, but you’ll only know if you try.”,

Surprise Crafterz

Surprise Crafterz, founded by Saidatta Tilve, pioneers personalized, emotion-driven events in Goa—crafting proposals, celebrations, and unforgettable memories through creativity, authenticity, and passion, with plans to expand beyond Goa. event planner

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

In the vibrant cultural landscape of Goa, where every sunset holds the promise of new memories, Surprise Crafterz stands out as a pioneer in creating personalized, emotion-driven event experiences. Founded by Saidatta Tilve, a computer engineer with a deep passion for cars, food, and nature, Surprise Crafterz is far more than an event planning venture, it is a manifestation of creativity, joy, and heartfelt connection.

The Genesis of Surprise Crafterz

The story of Surprise Crafterz began in 2019, during an ordinary visit to a Goan beach. Observing a small celebration unfold in the sunset, Saidatta envisioned something far grander, a business built around crafting meaningful, surprise experiences. That moment became the spark for Surprise Crafterz, now celebrated for pioneering the concept of beach proposals in Goa.

Based in Ponda, Goa, Surprise Crafterz specializes in intimate, personalized experiences such as romantic proposals, candlelight dinners, and surprise celebrations. The core values of the brand are rooted in creativity, authenticity, emotional connection, and delivering unforgettable customer experiences.

From Engineering to Entrepreneurship

Saidatta Tilve followed a traditional path, completing his engineering at Don Bosco College of Engineering, before entering the typical 9-to-5 job routine. However, the desire to create something of his own persisted. With limited funds and resources, he began building Surprise Crafterz from scratch, handling every aspect of the business solo, from meeting clients to setting up entire events. Despite physical and mental exhaustion, resilience and passion fueled his journey.

Today, what started as a simple idea has blossomed into a trusted and creative name within Goa’s event scene. Professionally, Saidatta considers this achievement of building a business without a blueprint, from passion and hustle, a testament to his unwavering vision.

A Philosophy of Joy, Authenticity, and Innovation

What sets Surprise Crafterz apart is the belief that every event should tell a unique story. Instead of following rigid templates, the brand thrives on constant innovation, always seeking new themes, locations, and personalized touches.

By staying updated through social media, client feedback, and global inspiration, Surprise Crafterz continues to push creative boundaries.

Rather than seeing deadlines or customer expectations as limitations, Saidatta views them as structures that help creativity flourish. His commitment to quality, attention to detail, and authentic setups consistently turn one-time clients into lifelong advocates. He emphasizes:

“People remember how you made them feel… Deliver high-quality, visually stunning, and emotionally meaningful setups, and trust follows.”

Leadership and Teamwork: Driving Purpose Together

Saidatta leads by example, remaining hands-on from the very start. His leadership style fosters inclusivity, with regular team communication and involvement in decision-making, ensuring that everyone shares in the company’s vision. This collective approach ensures consistent service quality, regardless of event size.

Overcoming

Challenges, Celebrating Milestones

Challenges like limited capital and resource scarcity early on shaped Saidatta’s resilience. He navigated these obstacles by learning from experience, building a network, and reinvesting his earnings into growth.

Today, the most fulfilling part of his work remains the emotional reactions of clients, seeing smiles, tears of joy, and hearing heartfelt messages, which constantly remind him of his mission.

His biggest professional achievement lies in establishing Surprise Crafterz as a trusted brand, while personally, the pride of transforming a simple idea into a thriving business remains unparalleled.

Work-Life Balance and Personal Passions

Running an event-driven business that often extends into late nights requires balance. Saidatta manages this by reconnecting with his passions, cars, food, and nature. These interests serve as creative outlets, helping him recharge and return to his business with renewed inspiration.

Future Vision: Expanding Horizons

Looking ahead, Saidatta aims to expand Surprise Crafterz beyond Goa, bringing the concept of curated surprise experiences to other cities across India. His vision extends to positioning Surprise Crafterz as a proud Goan pioneer contributing to the tourism industry, not just through scenic beaches, but through unforgettable moments woven into people’s lives.

He believes in starting small, staying consistent, and growing through experience:

“Start with what you truly love. Passion is what will keep you going when things get hard. Believe in your idea, even if no one else does at first.”

Conclusion: A Legacy of Thoughtful Celebrations

Surprise Crafterz is a reflection of Saidatta Tilve’s purpose-driven approach, creating memories, spreading joy, and celebrating life’s special moments in the most thoughtful and authentic ways. Every setup, every event is a labor of love, turning personal dreams into vivid realities.

Tarini in Panjim celebrates feminine strength, nature, and tradition through handcrafted home linen, offering serene experiences, quality designs, and future expansion across Goa while honoring authentic craft and everyday beauty. entrepreneur

In the heart of Panjim Campal lies a haven of serenity and beauty: Tarini. This beautiful store is more than just a retail space; it's an experience that symbolises the spirit of feminine empowerment, nature, and tradition. Founded by Shashi Sehgal, a creator, dreamer, and nurturer, Tarini is a brand that celebrates the beauty of everyday life, craft, and togetherness.

The Story Behind Tarini

Shashi's vision for Tarini was born out of her passion for authenticity, craft, and natural beauty. With unwavering love and dedication, she built the brand from scratch, shaping it into a heartfelt expression of her values. The name "Tarini," inspired by Goddess Durga, signifies the spirit of feminine strength and empowerment. From its humble beginnings in Delhi to its expansion in Goa, Tarini's journey is a testament to Shashi's resilience and commitment to her craft.

Their Love for Goa

Sonia Lall, Director of Tarini, has a profound love for Goa, and it's easy to see why. The state's stunning natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and artistic spirit perfectly harmonise with Tarini's design ideology. The store's location in Campal, surrounded by iconic

The founder, Shashi Sehgal brings Tarini's designs to life with love and precision, right there in the factory

Goan culture.

Tarini's forte lies in its exquisite home linen, inspired by nature, everyday stories, and Indian traditions. If you see each is a blend of ethnic prints and modern ease, honouring the hands and hearts that bring craft to life. Shashi's design philosophy is rooted in finding beauty in the little things and celebrating slow processes and authenticity. From bed covers to cushion covers, table mats to floor rugs, every product is a testament to Tarini's commitment to quality and affordability.

Step into Tarini, and you'll be surrounded by calmness. The cosy atmosphere, lush greenery, and natural materials will melt away stress and anxiety, motivating you to explore and connect with the beauty around you. Every element at Tarini from the plants to the decor, is designed to create a sense of welcome and peacefulness. Tarini's curation process is a thoughtful blend of art and expertise, showcasing handcrafted items that reflect India's rich culture.

A haven of prints, textures, and comfort – crafted to make every corner inviting

Layered in prints, adorned with details – a setting that celebrates art and togetherness

Customer Favourites and Gift Options

Tarini's customers adore their home linen items, which can create a specific atmosphere in their rooms. Bed covers, cushion covers, table runners, and floor rugs are among the most popular products, making for thoughtful gifts for loved ones. The parakeet runner, a multipurpose item, is a beautiful example of Tarini's craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Future Plans and Message

Stay Connected with Tarini

To stay updated about new products, promotions, and events, customers can follow Tarini on social media @tarini.online and visit their website www.tarinionline.com With its commitment to quality, authenticity, and natural beauty, Tarini is sure to remain a beloved destination for those seeking a haven of serenity and beauty in the heart of Goa.

As you leave Tarini, you'll carry with you not just a product, but a luxury experience – a sense of connection to nature, craft, and the beauty of everyday life. Tarini is more than just a brand; it's a celebration of life, love, and the human spirit.

As Tarini looks to the future, it's clear that the brand's growth is driven by its love for people and the beauty of everyday life. With plans to open multiple stores across Goa, Tarini aims to cater to a wider audience and increase its footprint in the state of Goa. The message to customers, old and new, is simple: continue dreaming bigger, welcoming beauty in everyday life, and honouring the craft traditions that inspire the brand. www.itsgoa.com

Pastel Lane

Pastel Lane, founded by Abhishek and Sunidhi in Goa, offers unique, high-quality lifestyle accessories with a focus on creativity and sustainability. Their journey reflects passion, innovation, and growth. lifestyle store

In the heart of Goa, amidst its serene beaches and vibrant culture, lies a brand that encapsulates the essence of creativity and quality. Founded in 2020 by Abhishek and Sunidhi, Pastel Lane has emerged as a unique player in the lifestyle accessories market. From quirky printed masks to meticulously crafted personalised gifts, this brand's journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and resilience.

The Genesis of Pastel Lane

Abhishek and Sunidhi, both enthusiastic about quirky and quality lifestyle accessories, were always inspired by renowned Indian brands like Chumbak and DailyObjects. The inception of Pastel Lane was a dream come true for the couple, catalysed by the global Covid pandemic. With life at a standstill, they seized the opportunity to start a small business selling printed cotton masks online. The overwhelming response they received marked the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey.

From Pastel Life to Pastel Lane

Initially named Pastel Life, the brand underwent a significant transformation in 2022 when Abhishek and Sunidhi decided to expand their product range. To maintain brand familiarity while introducing new products, they rebranded to Pastel Lane. The name 'Pastel' was deliberately chosen to reflect their futuristic vision of offering products in a pastel palette, a favourite among the new generation. This aesthetic is consistently reflected in their branding and product designs.

Customisation: A Personal Touch

Pastel Lane offers a wide array of personalised gifts, a process that involves several meticulous stages. Abhishek and Sunidhi personally design all their products, incorporating thoughtful elements derived from their experience with similar market offerings. The materials, including vegan leather and handloom fabric, are sourced from Mumbai and Delhi, and handcrafted by skilled artisans in Rajasthan and Mumbai. The products undergo rigorous quality checks before arriving at their warehouse in Mapusa, Goa, where personalisation is carried out using manual hot foil stamping and computerised laser engraving.

Evolution of Products

The brand's journey began with printed cotton masks, which quickly evolved into a diverse range of products. Their first major product line included ladies' handloom sling bags and wallets. Following their success, they introduced men's wallets, unisex sunglasses cases, keychain cum tags, and water bottles, incorporating personalisation to cater to a broader audience. Each product is designed with a keen eye for detail and functionality, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Quality and Customer Service: The Pillars of Success

What sets Pastel Lane apart from other personalised gift providers is their unwavering commitment to product quality and exceptional customer service. They use premium materials, such as YKK brand metal zippers, which are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. This dedication to quality extends to every aspect of their products, ensuring they stand out in a competitive market.

In terms of customer service, Abhishek and Sunidhi prioritise timely delivery and responsive communication. They personally oversee the checking, packing, and dispatching of orders, ensuring each product reaches customers in perfect condition. This hands-on approach has garnered them a loyal customer base, who appreciate the quality and service they consistently provide.

The Role of Social Media

Social media, particularly Instagram, has played a pivotal role in the growth and visibility of Pastel Lane. The brand's vibrant aesthetic and engaging content have attracted a dedicated following, which continues to grow. Abhishek and Sunidhi actively engage with their audience, sharing behind-thescenes glimpses and showcasing their products creatively. This approach not only boosts their online presence but also fosters a strong connection with their customers.

Design and Aesthetics

Abhishek's background in fine arts significantly influences the design and colour choices for Pastel Lane's products. The brand's aesthetic is a blend of contemporary trends and personal preferences, ensuring each product is both appealing and unique. The choice of colours and patterns is carefully considered, reflecting the vibrant and casual lifestyle of Goa, which serves as a constant source of inspiration.

Customer Favourites

Among Pastel Lane's diverse product range, certain items have become customer favourites. The D sling bags, with their unique shape and interchangeable handloom straps, are particularly popular. Customers appreciate the versatility of these bags, which can be styled to match various outfits. The compact personalised wallets, known for their clean design and functionality, are also best-sellers. Additionally, the new range of Quirky Quinch Hot and Cold bottles and gift combo boxes have quickly gained popularity, especially during festive seasons.

Overcoming Challenges

Running a business from Goa presents its own set of challenges. While the serene environment is inspiring, the logistical aspects can be daunting. The lack of specialist artisans and raw material suppliers in Goa necessitates reliance on vendors in Mumbai and Delhi. Despite these hurdles, Abhishek and Sunidhi have found ways to navigate these challenges, leveraging the best delivery services and continuously seeking innovative solutions.

The Influence of Goa

The locale of Goa significantly influences the design and marketing of Pastel Lane's products. The calm, casual, and happy lifestyle of Goa resonates with the brand's aesthetic. Abhishek and Sunidhi draw inspiration from the vibrant colours and relaxed vibes of Goa, which are reflected in their product designs. This connection to their surroundings helps create a unique identity for Pastel Lane, distinguishing it from other brands.

Future Directions

As Pastel Lane approaches its fifth anniversary, Abhishek and Sunidhi have ambitious plans for the future. They aim to expand their product range, introduce new designs, and enhance their marketing efforts. Plans are underway to increase their online presence on e-commerce platforms like Myntra and Amazon, as well as establish an offline presence in Goa. Additionally, they are committed to improving their packaging, with a focus on nature-friendly materials.

Conclusion

Pastel Lane's journey from a small mask-selling business to a renowned brand for quirky and quality lifestyle accessories is a story of passion, creativity, and perseverance. Abhishek and Sunidhi's dedication to their craft and their commitment to quality and customer service have been the driving forces behind their success. As they continue to grow and evolve, Pastel Lane remains a testament to the power of creativity and the impact of following one's dreams.

Through the vibrant colours and thoughtful designs, Pastel Lane not only offers quality products but also shares a piece of Goa's unique lifestyle with every item. With their eyes set on the future, Abhishek and Sunidhi are poised to take Pastel Lane to new heights, continuing to inspire and delight their customers with every creation. www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

OneBoard

OneBoard, founded by Ryan, offers ethical and authentic travel experiences in Goa, combating tourist exploitation, supporting local communities, and leveraging technology for seamless, genuine adventures.

OneBoard

In the realm of travel and adventure, Goa has long captivated the hearts of explorers seeking sunkissed beaches, rich culture, and vibrant experiences. However, beneath its allure lies a challenge: the exploitation of tourists by unscrupulous operators. This issue struck a chord with Ryan, a seasoned professional in the travel and hospitality industry. With a deep-seated passion for Goa and a commitment to ethical tourism, Ryan embarked on a mission that would redefine how travellers experience this coastal paradise.

Origins of OneBoard: A Response to Goa's Tourism Challenges

Ryan's journey with OneBoard began against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when global travel came to a standstill, prompting reflection on the essence of travel itself. Drawing

adventure, Ryan delved into Goa's experiences market. What he found was disheartening: terrorising touts, rampant scams, misleading tours, and a tarnished reputation of Goan hospitality. Determined to restore trust and offer travellers authentic, quality experiences, Ryan set out to create OneBoard.

Inspiration Amidst Adversity: Crafting a Solution for Authentic Experiences

At the heart of OneBoard's inception lies a desire to empower travellers with genuine encounters while supporting local communities. Ryan envisioned a platform that not only connects travellers with trustworthy experiences but also uplifts local providers who embody Goa's warmth and authenticity. This vision propelled him to collaborate closely with local businesses, ensuring that every offering on OneBoard reflects the true spirit of Goa.

Distinctive

Features of OneBoard: Redefining the Travel Experience

What sets OneBoard apart from traditional travel platforms is its unwavering commitment to fairness and quality. Ryan and his team prioritise customer satisfaction, offering transparent pricing and a seamless booking process. Moreover, on the backend, OneBoard boasts a sophisticated business management platform tailored for experience providers. This tool equips local operators with the means to streamline operations, expand their reach, and uphold the highest standards of service.

Diverse Offerings: Enriching Travellers' Goa Experience

OneBoard caters to a spectrum of interests, ensuring there's something for every traveller seeking to explore Goa authentically. From exhilarating water sports and serene cruises along the coastline to immersive cultural tours and offbeat adventures like brewery visits and birdwatching, the platform curates experiences that resonate with both firsttime visitors and seasoned explorers.

Customer-Centric Approach: Adapting to Travelers' Needs

Central to OneBoard's success is its responsiveness to customer preferences. By actively engaging with travellers, Ryan and his team glean insights that shape the platform's offerings. Water-related activities, such as kayaking and scuba diving, have emerged as perennial favourites, showcasing Goa's breathtaking aquatic landscapes and marine biodiversity.

Impactful Moments: Transforming Travel Experiences

Amidst tales of misfortune and disappointment, OneBoard has emerged as a beacon of reliability for travellers. Ryan recalls a poignant incident involving a family misled by unscrupulous operators. Swift intervention by OneBoard not only salvaged their trip but also earned their trust, leading to continued exploration and positive word-of-mouth—a testament to OneBoard's commitment to ethical tourism.

Community Engagement: Fostering Local Collaboration and Support

Beyond offering exceptional experiences, OneBoard is dedicated to fostering symbiotic relationships with Goa's local community. By championing honest, hardworking providers, Ryan ensures that tourism benefits those who uphold Goa's values of hospitality and integrity. This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of offerings but also bolsters the local economy sustainably.

Navigating Challenges: From Inception to Expansion

The journey of OneBoard hasn't been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed formidable obstacles, testing Ryan's resilience and adaptability. Yet, through strategic partnerships and a steadfast focus on innovation, OneBoard persevered, emerging stronger and more determined to reshape Goa's tourism landscape for the better.

Harnessing Technology: Innovation for Seamless Experiences

Embracing the digital age, OneBoard leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance user experience and operational efficiency. Led by Ryan's vision and guided by his tech-savvy co-founder, Shreyansh Doshi, the platform employs a robust tech stack. This ensures that travellers enjoy a smooth, intuitive booking process while empowering local operators with tools to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Future Prospects: Scaling New Heights

Looking ahead, Ryan envisions a dynamic future for OneBoard, one that extends beyond Goa's shores. With plans to expand into new destinations and innovate further, OneBoard aims to set a benchmark for ethical tourism globally. By amplifying the voices of local providers and enriching travellers' experiences, Ryan charts a course towards sustainable growth and meaningful impact in the travel industry.

Guiding Principles: Integrity, Innovation, and Inclusivity

Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Ryan remains guided by core principles of integrity, innovation, and inclusivity. Each decision at OneBoard is grounded in a commitment to ethical business practices and a passion for fostering genuine connections between travellers and destinations. With humility and determination, Ryan and his team navigate the complexities of the travel landscape, driven by a shared vision of redefining travel for the better.

Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery and Transformation

In the ever-evolving realm of travel, Ryan's odyssey with OneBoard stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. From confronting challenges head-on to pioneering ethical tourism practices, Ryan has carved a niche for OneBoard as a beacon of trust and authenticity in Goa and beyond. As the journey continues, Ryan remains steadfast in his mission to inspire more adventures, empower local communities, and redefine travel experiences for generations to come.

Goa’s startup scene is thriving, driven by AI, green tech, blockchain, IoT, and EdTech, transforming industries, boosting sustainability, and fostering innovation despite funding and infrastructure challenges.

In recent years, the global push towards sustainability has inspired a new wave of entrepreneurs who are building businesses not just for profit, but with a deep sense of responsibility toward the planet.

Goa, often celebrated for its natural beauty and laidback lifestyle, is fast becoming a hotspot for green entrepreneurship. As environmental awareness grows and government policies shift toward supporting sustainability, an increasing number of startups in Goa are leading the way with eco-friendly innovations that align business success with environmental preservation.

The Rise of Sustainable Startups in Goa

Goa’s economy, once centered on tourism and real estate, now sees diverse green startups driving sustainability, protecting ecosystems, and contributing significantly to both the local economy and global environmental goals.

1. Renewable Energy Solutions

Given Goa’s abundant sunlight and coastal winds, renewable energy startups have a natural advantage. Entrepreneurs are developing solar microgrid solutions that power remote homes and businesses, helping areas that previously struggled with unreliable power supply. Startups are also innovating in solar-powered water pumps and energy-efficient appliances designed specifically for Goa’s tropical climate, reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels.

2. Eco-Friendly Tourism

Tourism is Goa’s economic backbone, but it has also been a significant contributor to environmental degradation, including beach pollution and excessive energy consumption. Enterprising startups are now promoting eco-tourism and responsible travel. Companies are designing sustainable resorts built with locally sourced materials, offering zero-waste stays, and using renewable energy sources.

Eco-friendly tour operators offer wildlife conservation trips, guided clean-up activities, and educational experiences that promote environmental responsibility.

3. Waste Management and Circular Economy

Waste management in Goa is improving through startups creating compostable packaging, recycling platforms, and upcycling discarded materials into products—reducing landfill waste, generating jobs, and supporting local craftsmanship.

5. Green Building and Eco-Conscious Design

Sustainable architecture and eco-friendly construction materials are gaining traction in Goa’s real estate and hospitality sectors. Startups are developing Vastu-compliant, energy-efficient homes using recycled materials and natural insulation techniques. From rainwater harvesting systems to solar-powered ventilation, these green buildings aim to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact while promoting harmonious living with nature.

Government Support and Future Outlook

Recognizing the potential of green entrepreneurship, the Goa government has introduced several initiatives, such as grants for eco-startups, easier registration processes, and the promotion of renewable energy projects. Incubators and innovation hubs in Goa provide mentorship and workspace to sustainable entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges such as funding gaps and market reach.

With increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and services, the future looks promising for green startups in Goa. As more entrepreneurs embrace sustainability as a core business principle, Goa is set to become not only a paradise for travelers but also a pioneer in responsible innovation.

Shaping the Startup Landscape in Goa

Localized marketing in Goa helps small businesses connect authentically by embracing festivals, culture, language, and community ties, creating loyal customers and standing out from larger competitors in the state’s diverse market.

www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa

Over the past decade, Goa has emerged not only as a world-renowned tourist destination but also as a thriving hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Traditionally known for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and hospitality industry, Goa is now making waves in the startup ecosystem, thanks to the rapid adoption of emerging technologies.

As the state invests in digital infrastructure and fosters a culture of innovation, a new breed of startups is leveraging cutting-edge technologies to disrupt traditional industries and create scalable solutions with a global outlook.

1. Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming Goa’s startup scene, with local ventures using AI and data analytics for healthcare, tourism, and SMEs. From predictive tools for inventory and trends to AIpowered chatbots enhancing travel experiences, innovation is reshaping services and decisionmaking.

2. Sustainable Tech and Green Innovation

Goa’s rich natural resources and environmental consciousness have given rise to a growing number of sustainable tech startups. From solar-powered solutions to eco-friendly waste management platforms, local entrepreneurs are developing technologies that align with global sustainability goals. Startups focusing on renewable energy, such as solar microgrids, are helping remote areas gain access to electricity while reducing carbon footprints. These innovations not only support local development but also position Goa as a leader in green technology solutions, appealing to global investors interested in impact-driven ventures.

3. Blockchain and Fintech Solutions

Blockchain technology is finding fertile ground in Goa’s startup ecosystem, particularly in financial services and property management. Startups are

exploring decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions to offer peer-to-peer lending platforms, digital identity verification, and transparent land registry systems. Given Goa’s growing real estate market and rising investor interest in the region, blockchain solutions are helping streamline property transactions by reducing fraud and improving efficiency. In addition, fintech startups are making financial services more accessible to local businesses, enabling digital payments, microloans, and financial literacy tools.

4. EdTech and Remote Work Solutions

As education and work patterns shift globally, Goan startups are innovating in the EdTech and remote work sectors. Online learning platforms and virtual collaboration tools are empowering local talent to acquire new skills and connect with global clients, bypassing geographical limitations. These startups are also supporting the growing digital nomad community in Goa, which thrives on flexible work opportunities and co-working spaces powered by high-speed internet and tech-enabled infrastructure.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the momentum, Goan startups face challenges such as limited access to venture capital, infrastructure gaps in rural areas, and a relatively small talent pool compared to metro hubs like Bengaluru or Mumbai.

However, the state government and private incubators are actively supporting tech entrepreneurs through startup grants, innovation hubs, and policy reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business.

As Goa continues to embrace digital transformation, the convergence of emerging technologies with the region’s unique cultural and ecological strengths presents vast opportunities for innovative startups. The growing ecosystem fosters not only business growth but also social impact, helping shape a future where technology serves sustainable development and global connectivity.