BNI Goa Region has been a catalyst for bringing in change in the domain of trade and enterprise.
SYBIL RODRIGUES recaps 15 years of Goa’s leading entrepreneurial organisation
In 2010, when Rajkumar Kamat first launched the Goa chapter of Business Network International (BNI), there was no fanfare, no blueprint, and certainly no guarantee of success. What existed was a vision – a belief that entrepreneurs could do more than survive; they could thrive through the power of structured networking, shared values, and mutual growth.
Fifteen years later, BNI Goa is not just a networking platform – it’s a movement that has transformed the business landscape of the state. With over 1,000 active members, the region has collectively generated thousands of crores in business, nurtured leaders, inspired youth, and directly contributed to employment generation on a scale few could have imagined.
“Our mission from the beginning was clear,” says Kamat, Executive Director of BNI Goa. “We weren’t just building a platform for exchanging referrals − we were building a community that would support entrepreneurial growth, job creation, and economic development.”
As BNI Goa celebrates its 15-year milestone, it stands not only as a testament to vision and perseverance but as a case study in how community-driven business models can create measurable social impact.
Humble Beginnings
The story of BNI Goa began in 2010 with the formation of a single chapter. Slowly, a second chapter followed. By 2012, the need for a regional support team became evident.
“We realised we needed people in leadership roles – people who could help guide new chapters, mentor members, and ensure we grew sustainably,” Kamat recalls.
This marked the formation of the regional team, which played a pivotal role in building the foundation of what BNI
Goa would become. With the regional team came a shared vision and long-term goals – goals that seemed ambitious at the time but have since become milestones.
“In 2012, we said – let’s aim for 1,000 members, `1,000 crores in business annually, and at least 10,000 jobs created over the next 10 years. That wasn’t just a number – we saw it as a roadmap for impact.”
The team even conducted an internal survey that estimated that for every crore of business generated, roughly 8.9 jobs were created – a figure they rounded up to 10. It gave their mission a powerful anchor: entrepreneurial growth as a means to employment generation.
Scaling Up: From Vision to Reality
By 2015, the momentum had picked up, but the leadership team noticed something important – a time lag between growth in membership and a corresponding rise in business volumes.
“We saw that while membership was growing, business referrals took some time to mature. Relationships had to build, trust had to form, and that meant our initial timeline needed tweaking.”
The team recalibrated its goals accordingly:
• 1,000 members by 2024
• `1,000 crore in business by 2025–26
• 10,000 jobs by 2026–27
Remarkably, BNI Goa hit the first of those milestones ahead of schedule, crossing the 1,000-member mark in October 2024.
Growth, however, wasn’t just about numbers. The pace at which business was being generated accelerated over the
years. While the first `1,000 crore took close to eight years, the second came in four, and the third in just two.
“We are now on track to generate `1,000 crore in businesses in a single year,” Kamat says with quiet pride.
“That’s how exponential the momentum has become.”
Vision 2030
With their original 10-year roadmap nearly fulfilled, BNI Goa has now shifted its sights to the future – a future even more ambitious in scope and scale. The Vision 2030 plan aims to take the BNI ecosystem in Goa to an entirely new level.
By 2030, the region plans to:
• Grow to 2,500 active entrepreneurs as members.
• Facilitate `3,750 crore in annual business.
• Create direct and indirect employment for 50,000 people
At the core of this vision lies the concept of “seat value” – the average annual business generated per member.
“When we say `1,000 crore from 1,000 members, it implies an average seat value of `1 crore,” explains Kamat. “Our new goal is to reach a seat value of `1.5 crore – which, across 2,500 members, gives us the `3,750 crore figure.”
Leadership as a System
One of BNI’s lesser-known but most powerful feature is its rotating leadership structure. Every six months, each chapter selects a new leadership team – a system that creates a dynamic and constantly evolving leadership pipeline. With 18 chapters in Goa, each electing new leadership teams twice a year, the region is generating over 100 chapter level leaders annually. While some may repeat roles, the experience of leading even once is transformative.
“We are not just building businesses – we are building leaders,” Kamat emphasizes. “And from these chapter leaders, the best rise to become part of the regional leadership team.”
Currently, BNI Goa has a regional team of 50 leaders. By 2030, they plan to scale that to 150 to support the increased network size.
“Our goal is to have a strong, well-developed regional leadership of 150+ who can manage a thriving network of 2,500 entrepreneurs. That’s how we will scale while maintaining quality.”
This leadership pipeline ensures that growth is never top-down. Instead, it is powered by a decentralized, community-led model that empowers people at every level.
The Multiplier Effect
For Kamat, it’s not just about business metrics – it is about the human impact. “Fifty thousand jobs,” he says, “means fifty thousand families. And assuming four members per family, we are talking about directly touching two lakh lives in Goa.”
That’s no small number in a state with a population of just over 15 lakh. BNI Goa isn’t just growing – it’s becoming a pillar of economic and social development in the region.
“We have always believed that supporting entrepreneurs is the most sustainable way to generate jobs,” Kamat says. “And when you create jobs, you are transforming lives – not just economically, but socially.”
BNI Goa’s impact has now moved well beyond referrals and business growth. It’s becoming a platform for transformation, nurturing both economic growth and human potential.
Community Building and Beyond
In addition to its core mission of generating business opportunities for entrepreneurs, BNI Goa is also focused on community empowerment. Through various initiatives, the network is creating a ripple effect of economic and social transformation. These initiatives aim to foster sustainable growth not only for businesses but also for the communities they serve. Among the most notable programs are GEMS, Vibrant Goa, and Business Voices.
GEMS: A Nurturing Ground for the Next Generation of Leaders
GEMS, which stands for Goa Entrepreneurs Mentoring Trust, is a powerful program designed to nurture young entrepreneurs and support their journey from startups to scale-ups.
Launched to identify and mentor the next generation of business leaders, GEMS taps into Goa’s vibrant pool of emerging talent. This initiative is more than just a support network; it’s a mentorship platform that provides budding entrepreneurs with a personalized approach to growth. By offering access to BNI’s existing members, GEMS connects young leaders with experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and mentors who help them navigate the often-turbulent waters of business development.
“This program has been a game-changer for many,” shares Kamat. “It provides young entrepreneurs with the wisdom and guidance they might otherwise have to spend years seeking out. It is all about accelerating their growth.”
Each year, a handful of promising candidates are selected from various industries and paired with mentors who guide them through the business challenges they face. These entrepreneurs don’t just get advice – they get access to networks, capital, and opportunities that can propel them forward.
The GEMS program also focuses on building leaders within the community. Graduates of the program often return to serve as mentors themselves, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of knowledge-sharing and support.
Vibrant Goa Foundation
Vibrant Goa is another initiative close to the hearts of BNI Goa’s leadership. The Foundation organises events designed to bring together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss, collaborate, and explore business opportunities in the state.
Vibrant Goa aims to highlight the state’s potential as an investment hub and a destination for business expansion, while also showcasing Goa’s unique cultural, environmental, and economic value proposition. The event includes trade exhibitions, networking sessions, and keynote speeches from global thought leaders, creating an ideal environment for business growth and international partnerships.
For Kamat and his team, Vibrant Goa represents an opportunity to put Goa on the global map – and to demonstrate that the state is more than just a tourist destination. It is a growing, thriving business hub with a pool of talented professionals, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a supportive government.
“Vibrant Goa is more than just about conferences. It’s a celebration of what’s possible when people from different walks of life come together with a shared vision,” says Kamat. “It’s about creating partnerships that go beyond the event itself.”
As the event grows year on year, it is expected to become a significant driver of economic growth, particularly in sectors like tourism, IT, and sustainable development, by attracting investments and collaborations that benefit both local entrepreneurs and international businesses.
Business Voices
The BNI Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of BNI Global, is dedicated to promoting children’s education and skill development. In addition to providing financial assistance where needed, the Foundation launched the Business Voices programme – an initiative through which business professionals volunteer their time to support these causes.
BNI Goa has fully embraced the Business Voices programme, focusing its efforts on inspiring and equipping students and youth with entrepreneurial skills. Over the past two years, more than 150 BNI Goa members have shared their journeys of perseverance and success with over 4,000 students across 30 colleges in the region. The objective has been to encourage students to view entrepreneurship as a viable and fulfilling career choice.
The positive response from students has led to 23 colleges formalising has their collaboration by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the BNI Foundation, committing to continued entrepreneurial education and engagement. Additionally, the Directorate of Higher Education, which oversees nearly 60 colleges in the state, has also signed a MoU with the Foundation, further strengthening the initiative.
The 18 BNI chapters across Goa have each committed to supporting one college, offering assistance in the form of internships, live projects, academic assignments, and entrepreneurial mentorship.
This collective effort has culminated in the launch of a pioneering undergraduate degree course in Entrepreneurship and MSME Management by SS Dempo College of Commerce – Autonomous, in association with the BNI Foundation India. This is the first programme of its kind in Asia and is expected to significantly contribute to the growth of entrepreneurship and the scaling of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) within the state of Goa.
A Thriving Ecosystem
These initiatives – GEMS, Vibrant Goa, and Business Voices – represent just the tip of the iceberg in terms of BNI Goa’s contributions to the community. They reflect a deep commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem where businesses and individuals grow hand in hand.
“At BNI Goa, we don’t just focus on business results; we focus on people. Whether it’s a member, a mentor, a leader, or someone just starting out, it’s about creating an environment where everyone can flourish together,” says Kamat.
As the region looks towards its Vision 2030, it’s clear that BNI Goa’s impact goes far beyond its business network. It is an engine of change, shaping the future of Goa’s economy and society, one entrepreneur at a time.
The Future of BNI Goa and its Vision 2030
As BNI Goa continues to flourish, the organization’s focus isn’t just on immediate growth but also on building a sustainable future for the region’s entrepreneurs. The success stories we have discussed are merely a glimpse of the wider impact that BNI is poised to have on Goa’s economy and business culture over the next decade. Through its Vision 2030, BNI Goa aims to take the network to greater heights, driving further economic development and transforming the way businesses operate in the state.
The Impact of BNI Goa on Goa’s Economy
BNI Goa has already had a substantial impact on the state’s economy, and as the network grows, its influence will only increase.
Through the connections it fosters, the collaborations it nurtures, and the mentorship it provides, BNI is not just supporting individual businesses but also contributing to the overall economic development of Goa.
The ripple effect of BNI’s success can be seen in various sectors of Goa’s economy, from tourism and hospitality to technology and retail. Local businesses are becoming more resilient, adaptable, and competitive, and the positive impact of BNI on Goa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem will help create a thriving business environment that attracts investment and fosters innovation.
Moreover, BNI Goa’s initiatives to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in sustaining the region’s growth. By equipping these businesses with the tools and networks they need to thrive, BNI is helping to create a more diverse and robust economic foundation for Goa.
A Call to Action: Joining the BNI Movement
As BNI Goa’s impact continues to grow, the message is clear: there has never been a better time for entrepreneurs to join the network. Whether you are a startup founder, a seasoned business owner, or someone looking to expand your professional network, BNI offers a platform for all.
Joining BNI Goa is more than just a chance to build your business – it is an opportunity to become part of something larger. It is about being part of a community that believes in the power of referrals, relationships, and business growth. It is about taking the next step in your entrepreneurial journey and knowing that you have the full support of a network that is focused on long-term success.
“In the end, business is not just about profits – it is about creating a legacy of success that benefits everyone,” says Kamat. “With BNI Goa, we are building a stronger, more sustainable future for our entrepreneurs, our businesses, and Goa.”
“My mission is bold, ambitious, and deeply rooted in service – to empower every BNI member in Goa to generate `1 crore in business through BNI by 2026 and to help more than 2,500 entrepreneurs scale their businesses through
the power of this global network” – PARAG LOLIYEKAR, Area Director (Operations) 
“As Senior Director of Business Development for Goa, I have organised 28+ business conclaves in sectors like hospitality, health, education, and infra projects over the past five years. These events have benefited many BNI Goa members, facilitating business growth through networking connections” – ARMAN BANKLEY, Sr. Director Consultant (Business Growth) and President, Vibrant Goa Foundation.
“I have developed thriving markets, expanding my client base across Goa and India while leveraging BNI’s global reach to secure clients from Sri Lanka, Australia, Singapore, Norway, Spain, and Dubai. My international presence is marked by extensive travel, including attending four BNI Global Conferences, where I have earned accolades from Dr. Ivan Misner and Graham Weihmiller.” – ANDRE SHACKLETON, Area Director (Training & Development)
“In February 2011, we launched BNI Mathagram, Goa’s second chapter, with a mission to empower 1,000+ entrepreneurs by launching more chapters through structured networking. 
Over 14 years, my firm has received `12+ crore in business and we gave `50+ crore back to the network.” ARCH. AVINASH BORKAR, Senior Director Consultant, BNI Goa
“70% of my business comes from BNI, demonstrating the power of referrals and networking. As a Trustee at Vibrant Goa Foundation, I have gained visibility and credibility through this role, further establishing my reputation as a business leader.”- AJAY GRAMOPADHYE, Chairman Board of Advisors, BNI Goa & Member International Board of Advisors
“I have had the privilege of ascending through four leadership levels – starting as a Support Ambassador, progressing to Support Director, and most recently being promoted to Senior Support Director. Additionally, serving on the International Board of Advisors for nine plus years has broadened my global perspective and strategic thinking.” – ASHFAQ SHAH, Senior Director Consultant (Support), BNI Goa
“My company has grown into Goa’s most preferred furniture brand, partnering with leading government and private projects. BNI has played an instrumental role in building this aspirational brand. BNI has sharpened my leadership and interpersonal skills while offering a strong sense of belonging in a global network of 340,000+ members.”
FAUZIA KHAN, Deputy Area Director (Support) BNI, Goa
“I have taken ownership of three Chapters as Support Director consultant, 2 of them in the critical launch stage and helped these Chapters stabilise and become self-sustaining, growing both membership base and business.”
CDR SKANDAN WARRIER, Senior Director Consultant (Training) 
“At the BNI-linked Amazing Goa business Summit, my team connected with international clients, increasing awareness and generating interest in our products. Over these 15 years, I have undertaken various roles that have allowed me to contribute to the growth of the BNI Goa region.”- RASIK NAIK, Senior Director Consultant & Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa 
“As a founding member of BNI’s first chapter in Goa, I had no idea that the power of networking would transform my business into Goa’s top power solutions company. BNI didn’t just bring business – it brought opportunities, learning, and the confidence to dream bigger.” – VINAY VERMA, Sr. Director Consultant & Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa
“BNI has connected me to a trusted and talented network of over 1,000+ professionals – locally and globally – and helped me develop invaluable skills that continue to shape my entrepreneurial path. It stands out as the most impactful business forum that I have experienced.” – DINESH DHULAPKAR, Senior Director Consultant & Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa 
“BNI has helped me into developing an entrepreneurial mindset and put me in leadership mode. This helped me and my husband to take up the reins of Hubli-Dharwad Region in 2018, just one year after my marriage. We knew only one person there; and later successfully expanded BNI to Belgaum, as well; creating world records during the journey.” NIMISHA KAMAT- Co-Executive Director BNI Hubli, Dharwad and Belgaum 
“The key to success in BNI is trust – people must believe in your ability to deliver quality work based on the referrals you provide. This trust has allowed me to build goodwill, making it easy for me to connect with others. Whether for business or personal matters, I can simply make a phone call to BNI members worldwide for support. ”- MANOJ PATIL, Senior Director Consultant, Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa and President GEMS Trust 
“During the COVID-19 crisis, when the hospitality industry faced unprecedented challenges, BNI became a vital support network, where I could lead initiatives to reposition BNI as a single point of contact for safe tourism, safe business, introducing stringent health protocols and e-business models which helped rebuild Goa’s economy.”
ANAND CHATTERJEE, Senior Director Consultant & Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa 
“The unwavering trust and remarkable camaraderie cultivated within BNI Goa’s diverse chapters have been instrumental in significantly boosting my firm’s visibility and generating invaluable recommendations throughout the Goan business community.” – ANUP GADGIL, Senior Director Consultant & Member Board of Advisors, BNI Goa 
BNI Goa: Leading a vibrant journey
“Congratulations BNI Goa on completing 15 Years of changing the way Goa does business! This is a truly a testament to the passion, commitment and leadership of Rajkumar Kamat, Founder and Executive Director of BNI Goa who has tirelessly worked to make an massive transformation to the business and employment landscape at Goa. His visionary leadership has positively impacted the lives of 1000 BNI Members who have generated over `3126 Crores in closed business. 
The growth of BNI Goa is an inspirational story of how an organisation with the right intentions combined with the right leadership and excellence in execution can make a significant positive impact to the community. Some of the outstanding landmarks in this exceptional journey of BNI Goa are: • Building and empowering a truly world class team of leaders who currently manage BNI Goa • Collaborating with the Govt of Goa to open new horizons and opportunities for the business community • Providing employment opportunities and creating leadership pathways for promising and talented candidates • Engaging with national and global business community to show to them, the potential for investment and growth at Goa • Branding Goa as an ideal destination for entrepreneurship and leadership development
As this amazing journey continues, I wish Team BNI Goa and Rajkumar Kamat continuing success with most and more abundance always.” MURALI SRINIVASAN, Global Master Trainer and Senior District Director.
