Airbnb, in continued collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has officially launched India’s first Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy in Goa. The launch event, held in the presence of Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Goa, and Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager of Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, marks a significant milestone in the promotion of homestay tourism in the state.
This initiative aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Airbnb and the Department of Tourism, Goa, aimed at enhancing hospitality entrepreneurship across urban and rural areas. The Academy aims to foster inclusivity by introducing individuals from diverse and underrepresented communities to hosting on Airbnb. It seeks to empower participants by equipping them with essential tools and knowledge to start their hosting journey.
So far, 25 homestay owners have been trained through interactive workshops in partnership with Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) Impact Ventures. The first round of workshops was conducted at Miramar Residency for participants from North Goa, with additional training planned for South Goa in Madgaon.
Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Goa, stated, “For Goa, the homestay segment plays a pivotal role in promoting regenerative tourism by preserving our rich Goan culture with renowned Goan hospitality. Our homestay policy, particularly designed to benefit rural Goa, aligns seamlessly with our Goa Beyond Beaches vision.”
Suneel Anchipaka, Director of Tourism, Goa, added, “The Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy is a significant step towards empowering Goan communities through tourism entrepreneurship. This initiative perfectly aligns with our vision of fostering inclusive growth and showcasing Goa’s authentic experiences.”
Amanpreet Bajaj of Airbnb emphasised the Academy’s role in transforming lives through tourism entrepreneurship, fostering sustainable opportunities, and enhancing the overall guest experience in Goa.
