Airbnb, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has launched India’s first Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy in Goa. The initiative, aimed at empowering individuals from diverse and underrepresented communities, was inaugurated in the presence of Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, and Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager, Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

This academy, part of the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Airbnb and the Goa Tourism Department, is designed to promote homestay tourism and build capacity among hospitality entrepreneurs across both urban and rural areas of Goa. The goal is to introduce participants to the world of hosting, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to start their journey.

To date, the academy has trained 25 homestay owners through interactive workshops conducted in partnership with Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) Impact Ventures. The first round of workshops took place at Miramar Residency, catering to participants from North Goa, with another round set for Madgaon in South Goa, targeting an additional 25 trainees.

Rohan Khaunte spoke about the importance of the homestay segment in promoting regenerative tourism, emphasizing its role in preserving Goa's rich culture and supporting the state's "Goa Beyond Beaches" vision. He highlighted the fiscal and non-fiscal incentives available for women, who are often the custodians of homestays, noting that this initiative would empower them and contribute to economic growth while showcasing Goa’s authentic experiences.

Suneel Anchipaka, Director of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, shared that the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy would empower Goan communities through tourism entrepreneurship. He noted that by providing essential skills, the initiative aligns with Goa’s vision of fostering inclusive growth and showcasing its authentic tourism experiences to the world.

The academy’s curriculum focuses on entrepreneurship, experiential learning, and community building, with an emphasis on the specific needs and growth opportunities within Goa's tourism landscape. Participants do not need to be current Airbnb hosts, but must have a passion for enhancing their hosting skills and building genuine connections with travelers. This opportunity offers financial independence while contributing to the local economy by turning spare rooms or properties into income-generating assets.

Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager of Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, emphasized that the academy is a transformative initiative aimed at creating sustainable opportunities for local communities. He expressed Airbnb's commitment to cultivating a vibrant local tourism economy that benefits all, while enhancing the overall guest experience in Goa.

The launch of the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy marks a new chapter in Goa’s tourism ecosystem, fostering inclusive growth, responsible tourism, and sustainable development. Through this collaboration, Airbnb and the Goa Tourism Department are paving the way for a resilient tourism industry that empowers local communities and invites travelers to experience Goa beyond the conventional tourist hotspots.