The Trademark Reimbursement Scheme is a startup-focused initiative under the Goa Start-up Policy 2017, introduced by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Goa. The scheme is designed to financially support certified startups that have entered the production/service delivery phase and wish to protect their brand identity by registering their company name and logo as trademarks.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• Department: IT, Electronics & Communications, Govt. of Goa
• Under Policy: Goa Start-up Policy 2017
• Reimbursement Type: One-time
• Reimbursement Cap: 50% of cost, up to ₹25,000
• Application Deadline: Within 6 months of incurring trademark expenses
• Slots Available: Maximum 200 startups per financial year
• Disbursal: Within 60 days of SPC approval
Benefits
• 50% reimbursement of the cost incurred in trademark registration of company name and logo
• Maximum reimbursement of ₹25,000 per startup
• Boosts brand protection and business credibility for emerging startups
• One-time benefit per startup for one trademark registration
Note: Reimbursement is not an entitlement. Approval is at the discretion of the SPC based on due diligence and fund availability.
Eligibility
• Applicant must be a certified startup by the Startup Promotion Cell (SPC)
• Startup must have a valid Startup Certificate Number
• Trademark must be successfully registered
• Expenses must be incurred after the notification of Goa Start-up Policy 2017
• Expenses must be digitally paid unless otherwise accepted by SPC
• The same IP should not have received grants/reimbursements under any other central/state scheme
Application Process
Online
• Step 1: Visit Goa Startup Mission Portal
• Step 2: Register with verified email and mobile number using OTP
• Step 3: Fill mandatory fields (Name, DoB, Address, PIN, Gender, etc.)
• Step 4: Create a Login ID and Password
• Step 5: Agree to terms, solve captcha, and click “Register/Signup”
• Step 6: Login → Navigate to “Trademark Reimbursement Scheme”
• Step 7: Fill application form and upload required documents
• Step 8: Submit and note the application reference number
OR
Offline
• Step 1: Download and fill the printed proforma of the application form
• Step 2: Attach required self-attested documents
• Step 3: Email the filled application and documents to: [email protected]
Note: Applications can be submitted anytime during the financial year, but only within 6 months of the expenditure.
Notification
• Application approval/rejection will be notified by SPC within 45 days of receipt
Documents Required
• Copy of Trademark Registration Certificate
• Documents as per Annexure 1
• Bank accounts of company directors must be linked to Aadhaar
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can start-ups apply if they haven’t started production/service delivery?
A: No, only those who have entered production/service phase are eligible.
Q: Is there a reapplication option if rejected?
A: There is no defined limit, but it depends on SPC’s discretion and compliance with eligibility.
Q: Is there a fixed time window each year for submission?
A: No, applications can be submitted anytime within 6 months of incurring the expense.
Q: Are all sectors eligible?
A: Yes, as long as the startup is certified by SPC and meets all criteria.
Q: Can reimbursement exceed the cost incurred?
A: No, it is capped at 50% of actual cost, up to ₹25,000.
Q: Who registers trademarks in Goa?
A: Trademarks are registered under the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM), Government of India.
Q: Can company name and logo be trademarked separately?
A: Yes, but the scheme specifically reimburses registration of both name and logo.
Q: How does this help startups long-term?
A: It strengthens brand identity, reduces IP-related legal risks, and enhances investor confidence.
Q: How can startups improve approval chances?
A: By ensuring complete, accurate documentation and timely application submission.
Q: Can other trademarks (not name/logo) be reimbursed?
A: The scheme specifically supports trademarking of company name and logo only.
Q: Are there application fees?
A: No specific fees for applying to the scheme.
Q: Can reimbursement be claimed retroactively?
A: Yes, but only if within 6 months of the expenditure.
Q: When will funds be disbursed post-approval?
A: Within 60 days of SPC approval.
Q: Are benefits guaranteed for all eligible startups?
A: No, benefits depend on availability of slots and SPC approval.
Sources and References
• Guidelines
• Application Form
• Startup Goa Portal
• Contact: [email protected]