Goa Tycoon - JULY ISSUE 2023

Hasina Bandukara

Pioneering Organic Beauty Solutions

An aI-IoT Platform That monitors water quality in real-time

cognicue

Helping Firms Make Better Decisions

Connecting entrepreneurs with business opportunities

mgl creatives

handcrafted Accessories for weddings

machapoint saafwater

vernekar’s masala

preservative-free Goan spice Blends

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the July issue of Goa Tycoon, your go-to source for the latest updates on entrepreneurship and innovation in Goa.

On our cover, we proudly feature Mrs. Hasina Bandukara, a remarkable beautician with an illustrious career spanning four decades. Her expertise in makeup, hairstyling, aromatherapy, and cosmetology has garnered her awards and recognition in the industry. We invite you to delve into her extraordinary journey and discover the secrets behind her success.

This month’s issue also shines a spotlight on Saafwater, an AI-IoT platform revolutionizing the way we monitor water quality. By providing real-time updates and offering corrective measures, Saafwater empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their water consumption.

Another exciting venture we showcase is MachaPoint, a Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS) startup dedicated to bridging the gap between talented micro-entrepreneurs in Tier 2 cities and towns in India and the opportunities they deserve.

CogniCue, a startup based in Fatorda, has caught our attention with its groundbreaking AI-powered technology.

By analyzing non-verbal signals, CogniCue extracts meaningful insights that benefit financial institutions, the banking sector, edtech companies, and recruitment firms.

We have also covered the stories of MGL Creatives, an enterprise based at Mapusa that offers a wide range of handcrafted decorations and other accessories for weddings, and on Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas, an enterprise that provides organic Goan spice mixes free of preservatives or artificial flavors.

As the monsoon season descends upon Goa, the state's beaches have assumed a nearly deserted appearance, with beach shacks dismantled and water sports activities brought to a halt. However, despite this transformation, tourists can still be seen exploring the coastlines, albeit in smaller numbers. The absence of crowds, coupled with reduced ticket fares and hotel prices, has drawn visitors to Goa during the off-season, providing a much-needed boost to the state's economy.

In a bid to boost the economy and promote tourism, the Government of Goa is considering the introduction of a "Digital Nomad Visa." The proposal, which aims to attract foreign digital nomads to work while enjoying their holidays in Goa, has garnered support from the state's Tourism Minister, Rohan Khaunte. By tapping into the growing trend of remote work, this initiative could not only strengthen the tourism sector but also generate employment opportunities within the state.

Well, that's all I have for you for 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 Hasina Bandukara

02 CogniCue

03 Saafwater

04 MGL Creatives

05 MachaPoint

06 Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas

07 The Power of Influencer Marketing

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed 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 festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade 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, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

For advertising queries: 9370502124 / 9209005127

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA

Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email : mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

www.itsgoa.com

Pioneering Organic Beauty Solutions

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: Hasina Bandukara

In a world where chemical-laden beauty treatments dominate the market, one woman has spent over four decades revolutionizing the industry with her chemical-free methods. Meet Mrs. Hasina Bandukara, a veteran beautician based in Goa, who has dedicated her career to helping people overcome their skin and hair issues while prioritizing their health and the environment.

Recently honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in Beauty at the 10th edition of Orchid Awards for Women Achievers in Goa, Mrs. Bandukara's remarkable contributions to the field have been recognized. The award was presented to her by Asha Arondekar, the founder of the Orchid Awards for Women Achievers in Goa.

Since she embarked on her journey in the beauty industry in 1976, Mrs. Bandukara has been a pioneer in providing effective solutions for a wide range of skin and hair problems. From reversing baldness to healing stubborn acne, she has transformed the lives of countless individuals.

Hasina Bandukara with her exclusive range of hand-crafted Aroma Magic products

Hasina personally attending to a client for threading

What sets her apart is her commitment to utilizing completely chemical-free methods, ensuring that her clients not only achieve beautiful results but also protect themselves from harmful substances prevalent in the beauty industry.

At the heart of Mrs. Bandukara's approach lies her fusion of the latest technologies and innovations with the ancient practice of Aroma Therapy and essential oil blends. Her treatments are personalized, taking into account each client's unique hair and skin quality, as well as their diet and lifestyle. This holistic approach ensures that the treatments address the root causes of skin and hair issues, leading to long-lasting results.

Central to Mrs. Bandukara's philosophy is the promotion of organic substitutes and traditional Indian remedies. All her essential oil blends are homemade, crafted from herbal and completely organic ingredients. By delving into the wealth of knowledge passed down through generations,

she has developed innovative, sustainable, and affordable treatments that can be easily practiced at home. This empowers her clients to extend the benefits of her treatments beyond the confines of her beauty studio, making natural beauty accessible to all.

While technological advancements like laser treatments have made significant strides in the field of cosmetology, Mrs. Bandukara believes that the approach is what truly defines the outcome. Her extensive qualifications, combined with years of experience and research, have equipped her with unparalleled expertise to create exceptional beauty solutions. Through her efforts, she has successfully raised awareness about the detrimental effects of chemicals in the beauty industry, inspiring others to adopt organic and eco-friendly alternatives.

Mrs. Bandukara’s dedication to the well-being of her clients and the environment resonates strongly in

Well-equipped and designed salon space for individual clients at Hasina's Beauty World, Panjim

her acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement Award. She emphasized the need for innovation to go hand-in-hand with the preservation of human health and the planet. With unwavering passion and a promise to continue her journey of service and innovation, she reaffirmed her commitment to making beauty sustainable and safe for years to come.

As Mrs. Bandukara's brand, Hasina's Beauty World, continues to thrive, her Aroma Magic hair and face oils have gained international recognition, reaching clients across the globe. Her tireless efforts have not only transformed the lives of individuals but also contributed to the larger movement towards organic beauty.

Mrs. Hasina Bandukara's extraordinary achievements in the beauty industry serve as an inspiration to both professionals and consumers alike. By prioritizing natural, chemical-free methods and drawing upon traditional wisdom, she has carved a path towards a more sustainable and holistic approach to beauty. Her legacy will continue to impact the industry, reminding us all that beauty should never come at the expense of our health or the well-being of our planet.

For more information about Hasina Bandukara and the services provided by her, Call/WhatsApp: 084079 46940

Performing Micro Derma Abrasion procedure on a client

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: CogniCue

In a world where communication plays a pivotal role, understanding the nuances of human emotions and expressions can be a game-changer. CogniCue, a dynamic start-up founded by Kanan Tandi and Fasih Ahmad Fakhri, aims to harness the power of artificial intelligence to analyze non-verbal signals and convert them into meaningful insights. By leveraging facial expression recognition, emotion analysis, and sentiment analysis, CogniCue offers a range of products and services that cater to various sectors, including finance, education technology, and recruitment. Let's delve into the intriguing journey of this Goa-based start-up and explore the impact they are making.

The Genesis of CogniCue

In November 2019, Kanan and Fasih, both having backgrounds in tech start-ups, realized the potential of emotion detection as a valuable use case for media and over-the-top (OTT) platforms. They embarked on a journey to create a platform that could accurately interpret kinesics, encompassing facial expressions, voice, text, and emotions. After rigorous data gathering and modelling, CogniCue was officially registered as a company in February 2021.

Product and Service Offerings

CogniCue's platform offers a range of services that utilize artificial intelligence to analyze non-verbal signals. Their flagship product combines facial expression recognition, emotion analysis, and sentiment analysis, making it a powerful tool for financial institutions and the banking sector. By accurately interpreting consumer videos during loan disbursements and insurance claims, CogniCue provides valuable metrics that assist in determining risk and trust scores. This empowers businesses to make informed decisions when engaging with customers, ensuring fair assessments and mitigating potential risks.

Beyond the finance industry, CogniCue has also made strides in the EdTech sector. Their platform aids interview practice and provides AI-generated feedback to facilitate skill development. Additionally, the recruitment sector benefits from CogniCue's capabilities, which enable mass interview scheduling, conducting, and screening of candidate responses based on multiple metrics. These services revolutionize the hiring process, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.

Founders’ Profile

Kanan Tandi, an MBA graduate from a premier business institute in India, brings her expertise in human behaviour to CogniCue. With a background in body language and micro-expression reading and decoding, she started her own training firm in 2014. Kanan's passion for psychology led her to pursue a master's degree in clinical psychology. Through CogniCue, she aims to create a world that embraces honesty and judgement-free interactions.

Fasih Ahmad Fakhri, the technical expert behind CogniCue, holds a B.Tech degree in Computer Science. His profound experience in software design and development spans over a decade. Having previously worked with prominent companies like HT Media and an Airtel-backed startup, Fasih's dedication to improving the system fuels CogniCue's growth. Prior to starting CogniCue, he was involved in his own fintech start-up, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.

The Journey and Challenges

The inception of CogniCue faced the typical challenges that most start-ups encounter. Fundingrelated issues, marketing strategies, making initial connections, and identifying the right marketplace

were hurdles that Kanan and Fasih had to overcome. However, their tenacity and determination allowed them to navigate through these obstacles, building a robust foundation for their venture.

Support Received From FiiRE

CogniCue's journey took a significant leap forward when they became incubated with FiiRE (Forum for Innovation, Incubation, Research and Entrepreneurship). This association provided them with invaluable exposure and support. FiiRE offered market outreach assistance, including valuable connections with potential investors. This support not only increased CogniCue's visibility but also opened doors to new opportunities.

Fasih explaining the tech behind CogniCue to delegates at Expo 2020 in Dubai

Kanan giving a demo of CogniCue to Dutch delegates

Future Plans

CogniCue has set its sights on the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector. By providing comprehensive video analysis during loan disbursements and insurance claims, CogniCue equips businesses with objective metrics to assess risk and trust scores accurately. With this transparency and efficiency, CogniCue aims to revolutionize decision-making processes within the BFSI industry. Their advanced technology extracts meaningful insights from consumer videos, empowering financial institutions to confidently engage with customers.

Words of Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Kanan and Fasih's entrepreneurial journey teaches us an important lesson. Not every business idea achieves immediate success, but taking that first step and starting the journey is crucial. They emphasize the importance of improvisation over a fully fleshed-out plan. Aspiring entrepreneurs should embrace experimentation and adaptability, allowing their ideas to evolve and grow.

Through their focus on transparency, efficiency, and meaningful insights, CogniCue is transforming the way businesses make informed decisions and engage with customers. As they continue to make strides in the BFSI sector and beyond, CogniCue's impact is set to reshape industries and contribute to a more perceptive and empathetic world.

For more information about CogniCue AND THE SERVICES THEY PROVIDE:

Email: info@cognicue.in

Instagram: @cognicue

YouTube: CogniCue Analytics

From the demo day with ICICI Lombard

Kanan doing a presentation on CogniCue at T Hub

TechXcl India Private Limited, a startup founded in 2019 by a group of passionate innovators and tech enthusiasts, has embarked on a remarkable journey to provide technological solutions that solve global community problems. With a focus on excellent technology-based products and services, TechXcl India aims to make a positive impact on society. Their flagship product, Saafwater, has gained recognition for its ability to address water contamination issues and improve water quality. Let's delve deeper into the story behind TechXcl India and the innovative solutions they offer.

The Birth of TechXcl India

TechXcl India was established in 2019 by a team of six co-founders: Hrishikesh Bhandari, Sanket Marathe, Satyam Prakash, Manikanta Chavvakula, Jay Aherkar, and Chintamani Shirodkar. These individuals brought diverse academic backgrounds from prestigious institutions such as IIT Madras, University of Paris, FLAME University, Delhi Technical University, AITD, and Goa University. They began their entrepreneurial journey as team members of the Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), and their efforts led them to become part of the All India Top 6 teams of the ATL Marathon 2017, an AIM-NITI Aayog initiative.

TechXcl's Journey and Saafwater

TechXcl India initially aimed to provide a platform for students to develop their STEM initiatives and transform simple ideas into viable solutions. However, their journey took a significant turn when Hrishikesh Bhandari's mother suffered severe health issues due to accidental consumption of contaminated water. This incident inspired the team to tackle the pervasive problem of water contamination. Thus, Saafwater was born.

Saafwater, the winner of the 2021 Call for Code Global Challenge, has garnered recognition on a global scale. Amongst over 500,000 developers and 180 nations, TechXcl became the first Indian team to win this prestigious competition. Saafwater has evolved into a platform capable of providing accurate and reliable water quality monitoring, addressing the issue that impacts millions of people in India and around the world.

TechXcl's Hardware Engineer Prasad at work

Saafwater Dashboards displaying Instantaneous Water Quality Analysis

TechXcl India’s flagship pr duct, Saafwater, is a rev luti nary s luti n f r m nit ring water quality. By making invisible water quality visible, Saafwater emp wers individuals, c mmunities, and rganizati ns t take pr active measures t ensure clean and safe water. Saafwater devices have pr ven t be highly accurate, reliable, and c steffective, making them attractive t a wide range f clients

Profile of The Founders

The c -f unders f TechXcl India Private Limited bring a diverse set f skills and quali cati ns t the table

Hrishikesh M. Bhandari: A student at IIT Madras and the University f Paris, he has previ usly w rked n pr jects like C r naTracker.in and The Unkn wn X

Sanket S. Marathe: Pursuing a degree in C mputer Science Engineering at AITD, Assaga , he has als c ntributed t pr jects like C r naTracker.in and The Unkn wn X

Jay A. Aherkar: A student at IIT Madras, Jay has a str ng passi n f r techn l gy and entrepreneurship

Manikanta Chavvakula: With a backgr und in BBA (Business Analytics), Manikanta previ usly w rked n pr jects related t farm techn l gy

Satyam Prakash: Pursuing studies at DTC and IIT Madras, Satyam brings valuable kn wledge and expertise t the team

Saafwater being declared the winner at the Call For Code 2021 Global Challenge winner announcement event in New York, USA

Chintamani Shirodkar: A veteran in marketing and sales, Chintamani's experience includes w rking at ren wned rganizati ns such as Bajaj Electricals Ltd. and United Breweries Ltd. He has als been inv lved in vari us entrepreneurial ventures. www.itsgoa.com

Saafwater Team at Atal Innovation Mission’s Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav event in New Delhi

Saafwater unit at Hyderabad site

Public Response and Recognition

From the inception of TechXcl India, the public response has been overwhelmingly positive. Friends, family members, domain experts, and various entities have extended their support and encouragement to the startup. This support has helped them gain confidence and fuel their determination to develop innovative solutions like Saafwater.

TechXcl India has witnessed favorable responses not only from individuals but also from water agencies, government entities, and other organizations concerned about water quality. Saafwater's accurate and reliable performance has impressed water agencies, leading to its adoption for real-time water quality monitoring and addressing water quality issues.

Challenges Faced

Setting up the enterprise posed challenges for TechXcl India, especially in terms of identifying the right vendors and suppliers. They had to look beyond Goa to find the required components, as the local market lacked certain materials and specialized vendors. Overcoming this challenge required extensive research and establishing connections with suppliers outside the state.

Future Plans

TechXcl India aims to continuously improve its technology and expand its reach to more cities and places. Their goal is to make water quality information accessible to everyone, enabling proactive measures to prevent adverse health effects caused by contaminated water. With their tagline "Saafwater - Be Uncontaminated!" as a guiding principle, TechXcl India strives to make clean water a reality for all.

Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Goa

The founders of TechXcl India encourages aspiring entrepreneurs in Goa to leverage the resources available and create remarkable solutions that benefit both their businesses and the local community. They emphasize the importance of adaptability in the dynamic business landscape and advise entrepreneurs to stay updated on emerging trends, technological advancements, and changing consumer needs. “Being open to change and embracing it as an opportunity for growth is the key”, they say.

For more information about Saafwater: Website: saafwater.com

Social Media: @saafwater (Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter)

Saafwater team at the INK@WASH 3.0 event in Hyderabad, Telangana

Saafwater presentation to Shri. Amitabh Kant (CEONITI Aayog), Shri. Rajiv Kumar (Vice Chairman - NITI Aayog) And Chintan Vaishnav (Mission Director - AIM) (Left-Right in photo) at NITI Aayog, New Delhi

Panel discussion for Call For Code India event at Persistent Systems, Pune highlighting the Saafwater platform

Article by: Steve Antao

MGL Creatives: Infinitely Creative Solutions

In the world of art and creativity, there are individuals who not only possess immense talent but also possess the determination and passion to turn their dreams into reality. Melcia Genevieve Lobo, the founder of MGL Creatives, is one such individual. With a diverse range of skills and an unwavering dedication to her craft, Melcia has built an enterprise that embodies her artistic abilities and entrepreneurial spirit. Let's delve into the journey of MGL Creatives and the remarkable woman behind it.

The Genesis of MGL Creatives

MGL Creatives was born out of Melcia's love for creativity and her innate ability to transform ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art. Even during her school days, Melcia displayed her talent by creating small paintings and crafts, which she sold to those who appreciated her unique creations. Supported by her family and loved ones, Melcia embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, establishing MGL Creatives a decade ago.

Bridal Bouquets curated by Melcia

Bridal Bouquets

is a treasure trove of handcrafted items and wedding accessories. Melcia's extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of handicrafts have allowed her to cater to a wide range of wedding requirements, offering exquisite handmade creations, gifts, cards, and graphic designing services. Every piece at MGL Creatives is meticulously crafted with love and dedication, with Melcia pouring her heart into every intricate detail.

Whether you're in search of a wedding centerpiece, a unique gift, or a beautifully designed table piece, MGL Creatives has you covered. Melcia's store boasts a versatile collection that caters to both small and large wedding-related items, ensuring that every customer finds something special. In the rare instance where a desired item is not available, Melcia and her team are always ready to accommodate special requests, ensuring customer satisfaction.

The Multifaceted Entrepreneur

Melcia's versatility and passion have led her to explore various creative avenues. Alongside MGL Creatives, she is a talented singer, a dedicated teacher, and an event coordinator at live art events. Growing up in a family of musicians, Melcia developed a love for singing from a young age. Today, she showcases her vocal prowess as a part of the renowned Cascades Band in Goa, along with participating in choirs and freelance shows. Her commitment to music has earned her recognition, including a second-place win in the prestigious Goencho Avaz singing competition in Goa.

Teaching also holds a special place in Melcia's heart. With her Montessori teaching training certification, she imparts her knowledge and talent to aspiring artists, nurturing their skills and helping them find their own creative paths. Moreover, her involvement in event coordination allows her to combine her artistic imagination with celebrations, bringing to life various set designs and preps at live art events.

Groom Buttonerrie

Floral Baskets

Future Plans

Melcia's entrepreneurial journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs. As she looks to the future, she envisions taking MGL Creatives to even greater heights. Her plans include expanding the business on a larger scale, continuously learning and incorporating new handicraft techniques, and potentially opening a physical store in another location. Through these aspirations, Melcia aims to provide a wider audience with access to her creative offerings and leave a lasting impact on the world of art and craft.

Melcia's success story is an inspiration to all aspiring entrepreneurs. She believes in the power of self-belief, the ability to embrace change, and the importance of loving oneself and what one does. Her message resonates strongly with those who dream of pursuing their passions and encourages everyone to seize their dreams with unwavering determination.

Flower Girl Accessories

Bridal Bouquet

Bridal Robe and Bouquet

Article by: Steve Antao

Founded in March 2022, MachaPoint is a PaaS (Platform as a Service) startup which aims to bridge the gap between promising micro-entrepreneurs in Tier 2 cities and towns in India and the opportunities they deserve. Recognizing the challenges faced by these entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses, MachaPoint provides a solution-oriented social commerce platform that simplifies the process of establishing an online presence, connecting with customers, and driving sales. With a focus on empowering local micro-entrepreneurs, MachaPoint strives to maximize their reach, sales, and overall business growth.

The Concept

The founders of MachaPoint, Mukul Samant and Sameer D S, identified a crucial gap in the market where micro-entrepreneurs lacked the resources and support needed to succeed. Many of these entrepreneurs faced obstacles such as limited access to online marketplaces, high commissions, technical challenges, and lack of recognition. MachaPoint's vision is to create a platform that requires less investment of money, time, and effort while offering increased reach, sales, and business opportunities for micro-entrepreneurs.

Services Offered

MachaPoint offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the needs of micro-entrepreneurs. The platform seamlessly integrates elements of online marketplaces, personal websites, and website builders, enabling entrepreneurs to establish their online store websites easily. With zero technical knowledge required, entrepreneurs can streamline inventory management, order processing, and customer interactions.

Moreover, MachaPoint provides micro-entrepreneurs with the opportunity to showcase their brands and products across various categories, reaching a larger audience and enhancing their sales potential. By combining the individuality of personal websites and the advantages of a marketplace, such as crosspromotion and improved customer shopping experiences, MachaPoint empowers microentrepreneurs to thrive in the digital market.

Profile of the Founders

Mukul Samant, a first-generation entrepreneur, hails from Goa. With a background in engineering, Mukul has a passion for creating practical life solutions using technology. Prior to founding MachaPoint, he was involved in two startup ventures in personal security and health-tech. Sameer D S, the cofounder, brings extensive experience in management consulting and the startup ecosystem. He has worked in various capacities in incubators and government policy, and he was previously the founder of Fyman Innovations.

Inspiration and Idea

Mukul's experience in the startup industry, coupled with Sameer's insights gained from working closely with entrepreneurs, sparked the idea behind starting MachaPoint. They were inspired by the untapped potential of micro-entrepreneurs and their struggles to access suitable platforms for business growth. MachaPoint was conceived to provide a dedicated space for micro-entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products and services while fostering a sense of community and recognition.

MachaPoint founder Mukul Samant (on the left) explaining the various services offered by MachaPoint to Mr. Ajit Parulekar, Director of GIM at the Startup20 startup showcase event.

Early Response

MachaPoint's initial reception was overwhelmingly positive. The startup adopted a lean approach, gathering feedback from potential users, mentors, industry experts, and investors. The prototype received excellent feedback, and microentrepreneurs showed great excitement about the platform's ease of use and affordability. Demand grew rapidly, leading to a temporary halt in onboarding more entrepreneurs to ensure the platform's stability.

Clients and Partners

MachaPoint primarily serves local microentrepreneurs in India, focusing on individuals and organizations that support entrepreneurship. They aim to partner with self-help groups, government entities, NGOs, women's organizations, and others involved in empowering micro-entrepreneurs.

By building a vibrant community, MachaPoint aims to foster symbiotic growth where every member benefits from collective progress.

Future Plans

MachaPoint's future plans include expanding beyond product sales to include services. This will enable entrepreneurs offering services such as photography, mehendi, makeup, and custom cake orders to showcase their businesses and book appointments through the platform. Additionally, MachaPoint aims to integrate with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to facilitate pan-India selling capabilities for microentrepreneurs. The startup also envisions upgrading its platform with advanced features and products to cater to the evolving needs of its members.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Mukul and Sameer emphasize the importance of starting without waiting for perfection. They encourage entrepreneurs to take the leap, even with limited resources, and learn by doing. Updating, learning, and continuous growth are key factors in entrepreneurial success. they say.

For more information about MachaPoint and the various services they provide, please reach out to:

Mr. Mukul Samant

Phone No: +91 7020699817

Email: mukuldms7@gmail.com

MachaPoint

Website: https://machapoint.com/

Twitter: @MachaPointIndia

Instagram: @themachapoint

The founders of MachaPoint interacting with students of GIM's Executive Program to share ideas, challenges and experiences of their startup's journey

MachaPoint founder Mukul Samant (left) meeting Mr. Rohan Khaunte, Minister for IT during the Startup20 event

spices

Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas

Founded in 2016 by Siddharth and Siddhi Vernekar, Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas offers an exquisite range of meticulously-crafted spice blends.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Vernekar's Masalas

Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas, an enterprise under Annapurna Gruh Udyog, has made its mark in the culinary landscape of Goa. With a commitment to providing authentic and high-quality products, this family-run business has captured the taste buds and hearts of its customers.

Founded by Siddharth and Siddhi Vernekar, Vernekar's Masalas has become synonymous with traditional Goan flavors, elevating every meal with their range of unique and meticulously crafted spice blends.

A Flavorsome Beginning

The journey of Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas started informally in December 2016 when Siddharth and Siddhi, a passionate couple, began exploring the idea of entrepreneurship. They officially launched their brand in January 2018, setting up their production base at Madkai in Ponda. With a handful of products, including their innovative Dry Rechado Powder, Dry Cafreal Powder, Banana Bun Ready Mix, and more, they aimed to offer something distinct to the market.

A Commitment to Quality

Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas stands out for its unwavering commitment to quality. With a motto of providing the best without any synthetic materials or added flavors, the founders decided to adhere to traditional methods of manufacturing, using a pounding machine to ensure the preservation of aroma and quality. By prioritizing natural ingredients and traditional techniques, Vernekar's Masalas maintains its reputation for authenticity and excellence.

Overcoming Challenges

Every business faces its fair share of challenges, and Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas is no exception. While the founders' 22 years of experience in manufacturing helped streamline operations, establishing the brand in Goa's competitive market was an uphill task. Raising funds and building infrastructure presented significant obstacles as well. However, Siddharth and Siddhi's determination, coupled with the support of family members like Mr. Narayan Nagvekar (Siddharth’s brother-in-law),

propelled them forward and helped them overcome these challenges.

Public Response

The public response to Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas was overwhelmingly positive from the start. During the Goa Consumer Shoppee Exhibition in Ponda, the couple exhibited their products, receiving a tremendous boost from the local community. This early success inspired them to continue their journey and further expand their reach.

Future Endeavors

Looking ahead, Vernekar's Real Goan Masalas aims to solidify its position as one of the top masala brands in Goa. Having overcome the initial struggles, the founders plan to enhance their business by tapping into new markets and strengthening their distribution networks. By offering an ever-expanding range of high-quality products, such as Udidmethi Masala, Rechado Masala Dry Powder, Ginger Powder, and more, Vernekar's Masalas intends to cater to the diverse culinary needs of its loyal customers.

Conclusion

Through their dedication to quality, adherence to tradition, and unwavering passion, Siddharth and Siddhi Vernekar have transformed their dream of entrepreneurship into a flourishing enterprise. As they continue to innovate and expand, Vernekar's

digital marketing

The Power of Influencer Marketing

Article by: Team ItsGoa Image: FreePik

www.itsgoa.com

In today's digital era, social media has become an essential aspect of our lives, revolutionizing how we connect, share information, and conduct business. Within this digital revolution, influencer marketing has emerged as a potent tool with the ability to drive remarkable success. This article will delve into the power of influencer marketing and how businesses can harness social media to their advantage.

The Emergence of Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing is a strategy that focuses on collaborating with influential individuals who possess a dedicated following across various social media platforms. These individuals, known as influencers, hold the power to sway the opinions and purchasing decisions of their followers. By partnering with influencers, businesses can tap into their extensive reach and engage with their target audience in an authentic and relatable manner.

Establishing Trust and Credibility

One of the primary advantages of influencer marketing lies in its capacity to build trust and credibility. Traditional advertising often struggles to establish a personal connection with consumers. However, influencers have already forged strong bonds with their followers through consistent and authentic content. When an influencer recommends a product or service, their audience is more inclined to trust their judgment, resulting in heightened brand credibility and customer loyalty.

Reaching a Targeted Audience

Influencers possess the ability to reach highly targeted audiences. They have dedicated years to cultivate their niche and build communities around specific interests or demographics. By thoughtfully selecting influencers who align with their brand values and target audience, businesses can ensure that their message reaches the right people. This targeted approach significantly enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of marketing campaigns.

Authentic Storytelling

Storytelling serves as a powerful tool for marketing success, and influencers excel in this aspect. They possess a unique ability to craft authentic stories that resonate with their followers. By seamlessly integrating a brand into their narratives, influencers can create compelling and relatable content that captivates their audience. This approach humanizes the brand and establishes an emotional connection, ultimately leading to increased brand awareness and customer engagement.

Augmented Social Proof

Influencer marketing also provides a valuable form of social proof. When an influencer promotes a product or service, their audience perceives it as a personal recommendation. This endorsement significantly enhances the brand's credibility and validates its offerings. Positive reviews and testimonials from influencers generate a ripple effect, piquing interest and curiosity among their followers, ultimately driving more conversions for the business.

Measurable Results

Unlike traditional marketing approaches, influencer marketing offers measurable results. Through the aid of various analytical tools and platforms, businesses can track the success of their influencer campaigns. From reach and engagement metrics to website traffic and sales conversions, these insights enable businesses to evaluate the return on investment (ROI) of their influencer marketing efforts and make informed decisions for future campaigns.

Influencer marketing has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses to leverage the vast reach and influence of social media. By partnering with the right influencers, businesses can build trust, reach a targeted audience, engage in authentic storytelling, enhance social proof, and achieve measurable results. Incorporating influencer marketing into an overall marketing strategy can lead to substantial business success, increased brand awareness, and improved customer loyalty. So, seize the power of influencer marketing and unlock new opportunities for your business in the digital realm.