Self Employment Scheme - Goa

The Goa State Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation Limited, operating under the Department of Tribal Welfare, Government of Goa, administers a loan-based scheme to support self-employment among the Scheduled Tribes (ST) community. The initiative provides financial assistance to individuals and groups, enabling them to launch or expand their own ventures. It responds to the difficulty ST members often face in accessing conventional credit, with the aim of fostering inclusive growth and narrowing socio-economic gaps.

The scheme is structured to help ST community members take up approved income-generating activities. Funds can be used to establish small businesses, strengthen existing micro-enterprises, or adopt new livelihood options. Beyond the immediate financial input, the programme encourages self-reliance and skill-building. It reflects the Government of Goa's effort to create sustainable livelihood opportunities and support greater economic participation for the state's tribal population.

• Step 1: Applicants must go to the Department of Tribal Welfare, Govt. of Goa, located at Shram Shakti Bhavan, 5th Floor, Patto, Panaji-Goa, 403 001.
• Step 2: Obtain a printout of the application proforma, or ask the relevant official for a physical copy.
• Step 3: Complete every required field in the form, affix a passport-sized photograph (signed across), and enclose photocopies of all necessary documents (self-attest where applicable).
• Step 4: Hand in the fully completed and signed application, along with the supporting documents, to the designated authority.

Applications submitted under the Self-Employment Scheme are first checked by the Department of Tribal Welfare, Government of Goa, for completeness and basic eligibility. Those that pass this initial screening move to a detailed review by the Corporation’s internal committee, which examines the viability of the proposed activity, the project’s financial soundness, and the applicant’s ability to run the venture. The financial standing of both guarantors, including the mandatory government servant, is also verified.

In certain deserving cases, the Board of Directors may relax specific eligibility criteria to support genuine entrepreneurs from the Scheduled Tribes community. Shortlisted candidates might be called for further discussions or site visits to confirm their proposals before final approval is granted.