Goa hosted the inaugural edition of ‘Goa Shackathon’ at Baga Beach in North Goa, positioning the coastal State as an emerging destination for startups, creators, digital professionals and AI-led innovation.
The two-day event attracted over 500 participants and transformed Goa’s beachfront into a collaborative workspace blending innovation, networking, work and lifestyle experiences.
Push for digital economy and workation culture
The event was organised by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C) and the Startup & IT Promotion Cell (SITPC).
The initiative aimed to strengthen Goa’s positioning as a leading workation destination while supporting the growth of startups, entrepreneurship and flexible digital work culture aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India vision.
‘Goa Shackathon’ highlighted the changing preferences of India’s emerging workforce, which increasingly values flexibility, creativity, innovation and quality of life alongside professional opportunities.
The organisers said the initiative marks a significant step towards establishing Goa as a national hub for creators, startups and the future digital workforce.
Focus on innovation and creators
State Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Rohan Khaunte, interacted with creators, startups, entrepreneurs and digital professionals during the event and outlined the State’s vision for a future-ready digital economy.
“Goa is moving beyond traditional tourism to build a robust, future-ready digital economy. Professionals are choosing Goa as their base as they’re drawn to the freedom, inspiration and quality of life our state offers,” he said.
The event also recognised individuals contributing to digital empowerment and innovation in Goa.
Technical trainers in 3D printing, Sujata Shirodkar, Pratibha Tilve and Santoshi Desai, were honoured for promoting future-ready technical skills. Deepak Pathania and Darpana Athale were recognised as founder members of the Creative Community of Goa, while Francisco Fernandes, popularly known as Fisherman Pele, was honoured for his contributions to Goa’s cultural identity.