From a small home project to a full-fledged automation brand, The Handy Goan shows how passion can power progress
I had spent about seven years working in the industrial field, with some of the best companies, says Rinaldo Fernandes, founder of The Handy Goan. “But I wanted to build something of my own. I have always enjoyed solving problems and thinking creatively, and I wanted to do something that provided solutions to challenges people faced. ”
It all began when Rinaldo decided to install a small gate automation system at his own home. It was something new, and he loved the process. Once the project was complete, he shared it on social media not expecting much, but the response was overwhelming. People started reaching out asking for the same setup in their homes. That was the moment he realised there was a genuine need for reliable automation services in Goa.
From there on, one project led to another. Slowly but steadily, what began as a personal experiment grew into something much larger. Today, The Handy Goan is a full-fledged company with a passionate team, an experience centre, and a vision to make smart automation accessible to everyone in Goa.
“What started as a personal idea has now turned into a journey of helping people improve their homes, their comfort, and their everyday lives,” Rinaldo shares with pride.
The company focuses on three key verticals: automation, security solutions, and audio-visual systems.
They have expanded to include eight different types of gates and shutter systems, home automation for lighting, fans, air conditioners, curtains, and digital door locks. Their security solutions go beyond standard CCTV setups with advanced perimeter sensors and pet-friendly burglar alarms, while their audio-visual systems bring together entertainment and innovation for smarter living.
Most of The Handy Goan’s clients are leading architects, interior designers, builders, and luxury homeowners who value reliability, design, and precision. “Our mission has always been simple: to be the go-to partner for architects, builders and homeowners by providing effortless world class automation, security and networking solutions,” Rinaldo explains.
The company’s larger vision is to be the most trusted name in smart automation and security worldwide.
What truly differentiates The Handy Goan is its service philosophy. “We don’t just install and leave. We stay involved,” says Rinaldo. With nine years in business and a 100 percent client retention rate, the brand has built a reputation for reliability and responsiveness.
The company also provides CAD designs for gates, shutters, and fabricated solutions, allowing clients to visualise the final product before it is built – a unique offering in Goa’s automation space.
“Not long ago, even a CCTV camera was seen as a luxury. Today, people understand that automation is not just about convenience but safety, security and peace of mind.”
One of the biggest challenges has been finding people with the right skills. “Automation isn’t like regular electrical work; it demands precision and understanding,” he explains. “In the early days it was hard to find skilled people locally, so I trained my own team from the ground up.” Today his team is well trained, dependable and shares his values of professionalism and attention to detail.
Looking ahead Rinaldo plans to take The Handy Goan beyond Goa and into the global market.
The company has already developed its own mobile application and touch panels with an impressive five-year warranty, setting new standards for innovation and reliability. “I am always thinking about what’s next,” he says. “Technology keeps changing, and so should we.”
With over a decade of providing services and solutions in automation, security systems and audio visual systems Rinaldo provides consultancy on projects at an early stage and brings tremendous value to architects builders, interior designers when they present their plans to clients. “Clients value convenience. And they expect this to be factored in during the design and planning stage,” observes Rinaldo.
When asked what advice he would give to young Goan entrepreneurs, Rinaldo smiles and says, “Start. Don’t wait for the perfect time or setup. Start small even if it’s just one idea or one customer. Every mistake teaches you something. Be consistent, stay honest, and never stop learning. Goa has immense potential; you just have to believe in what you are building”
