The 7th Edition of The Business Diva 2026, the flagship initiative of the GCCI Women’s Wing, successfully celebrated the inspiring journeys of women entrepreneurs from across Goa, recognising their innovation, determination, leadership, and contribution towards building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in the State.
Over the years, The Business Diva has emerged as one of Goa’s most prestigious platforms dedicated to women-led enterprises, providing entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their ideas, business models, and growth stories. The initiative continues to encourage women to step forward, build sustainable businesses, and create an impact in society.
The 2026 edition was organised in collaboration with and supported by FiiRE (Forum for Innovation, Incubation, Research and Entrepreneurship), powered by the GENO Foundation and Hotel Menino Regency, with Biotic Waste Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and BVG serving as Ecosystem Partners.
The competition featured three categories — Startup, Scaleup, and Rural Women Enterprise — ensuring representation and encouragement for entrepreneurs at different stages of their business journeys.
The Grand Finale was held on 31st July 2026 at the Surendrababu Timblo Convention Hall, Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Panjim. The event witnessed impressive business presentations by finalists before an esteemed jury panel comprising:
- Prof. Dr. Fatima De Souza, former Officiating Principal, Government College of Commerce and Economics, Borda, Margao
- Ms. Hazel Zarina Costa Pereira, entrepreneur and sports administrator
- CA V. Balaji Bhat
The awards ceremony was graced by Ms. Roana Maria Costa as the Chief Guest, while Ms. Pratima Dhond, President, GCCI, and Ms. Deepali Naik, Director, Rural Development, attended as Guests of Honour.
Winners of The Business Diva 2026
Category I – Startup
🏆 Winner: Pobrinha Carvalho (Reena Enterprises)
🥈 Runner-up: Swizel Agnes (Mascarenhas Ventures LLP)
Finalists:
- Nikat Khan (K Natural)
- Vaibhavi R. Sawant (BitMento)
- Prachi Kerkar (Cleo & Pepper)
Category II – Scaleup
🏆 Winner: Priyanka V. Naik (Priyanka Gardening Solutions & Rasraj Goa Farms)
🥈 Runner-up: Shweta Goel (Nitai Home Décor)
Finalists:
- Safalya Bhupesh Prabhudessai (Mother’s Touch by Safalya)
- Nazneen Sheikh (Ushine Beauty Salon & Spa)
- Vedshree Lawande (Vedkala Collections)
Category III – Rural Women Enterprise
🏆 Winner: Bebinanda Chodankar (Coastal Spice)
🥈 Runner-up: Mamta Fernandes (Rosary Self Help Group)
Finalists:
- Siddhali Patil (Fluxtotes – Hand-painted Goan Art through Everyday Products)
- Vaidehi V. Bhogale (Dehyve)
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Sandra Fernandes, Chairperson of GCCI Women’s Wing, highlighted that The Business Diva is not just a competition but a movement that inspires women to dream bigger, create sustainable enterprises, and contribute towards Goa’s economic growth.
She expressed gratitude to the partners, sponsors, judges, committee members, participants, and supporters for making the seventh edition a remarkable success.
Mr. Sanjay Amonkar, Director General, GCCI, appreciated the efforts of the GCCI Women’s Wing Committee and applauded the entrepreneurial spirit displayed by all participants. He also acknowledged the participation of students from Sharda Mandir School, who attended the programme throughout the day.
The programme was compered by Ms. Lavanya Shet and Adv. Abdrona Vaz e Valadares, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Pallavi Salgaocar, Mentor, GCCI Women’s Wing Committee.
The event was coordinated by Ms. Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director, GCCI Women’s Wing, and Ms. Renu Amballoor, Investment Manager, FiiRE, whose dedicated efforts ensured the smooth execution of the programme.
The GCCI Women’s Wing congratulated all winners, finalists, and participants, celebrating every woman entrepreneur whose story reflected courage, passion, perseverance, and the spirit of a true Business Diva.
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