Vibrant Goa is a platform designed by the entrepreneurs for businesses, especially for MSMEs in Goa, aiming to expand business opportunities beyond regional borders. Since its inaugural edition in 2019, it has transformed the landscape for numerous MSMEs, enabling them to look beyond Goa and explore international markets. Goa's industry associations such as GCCI, BNI, GSIA and LUB, have played pivotal roles in nurturing MSME development.
At Vibrant Goa, a non-profit trust, the dedicated team has tirelessly supported fellow MSME partners, providing mentorship led by Dr Jagat Shah, an esteemed international trade specialist. Vibrant Goa Foundation is lead by board of advisors chairman Suresh Prabhu along with Nitin Kunkolienkar and Rajkumar Kamat.
In its first edition Vibrant Goa saw 542 plus international delegates from 52 plus countries and over 15000 business delegates. Vibrant Goa 2019 had unique connect for industries and academia. There were 600 plus student buddies and international delegates who were escorted with three days with student buddy which offered a very supportive and learning experience for the academia. Similarly over six sessions were held with 100 plus self-help groups making them future ready for business beyond boundaries.
Through collaborative efforts with various 20 plus trade associations, Vibrant Goa has been instrumental in fostering growth opportunities, with a shared goal of contributing to India's Five Trillion Economy.
Over the past four years, more than 35 Goan MSMEs have ventured into international trade, marking their first foray into global business, thanks to the support and facilitation provided by the government of Goa, led by Dr Pramod Sawant. The Goa government’s commitment to enhancing ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and attentiveness to MSME concerns has been commendable.
Following the unprecedented challenges brought about by the pandemic, the stage is now set for new beginnings. India, recognised globally as a reliable partner, presents unparalleled prospects for MSMEs to thrive in the global business landscape. It's crucial for us to unite, support one another, and capitalise on opportunities presented by bilateral trade-focused global exposure like the one slated for November 2024. Let's grow and succeed together in this transformative era.
Vibrant Goa Foundation has been organising specific sector wise events amongst which a Hospitality Round Table was held in June 2022, Global Tech Summit in March 2024 and now on August 31, it will be organising the most important event on sustainability to envision a world where environmental sustainability and economic success coexist! Vibrant Goa Foundation's Green Goa Summit 2024 can connect with like-minded individuals, engage in thought-provoking discussions, explore innovative solutions, and inspire change.
Vibrant Goa is coming up with a second edition as Amazing Goa on 8-10 November 2024 in Panaji, inviting international trade delegates empowering business beyond boundaries and offering knowledge sessions based on country specific and product specific information. The focus sectors for Amazing Goa 24 are IT, education, tourism, light engineering, start-ups, construction, maritime and pharma.
Amazing Goa is approved under MSME Ministry Subsidy Scheme and booth owner will be able to avail 75% subsidy from Central government scheme. Amazing Goa is a journey and not just an exhibition. The booth owners will undergo mentoring session with Dr Jagat Shah with probable connects and life-long hand holding for Exim trade. The industries in Goa are looking forward for the mega event, scheduled in November.
(The writer is the President of Vibrant Goa Foundation)
