Glossary / Startup Accelerator

Startup Accelerator

A startup accelerator is a program that helps early-stage startups grow and scale their businesses. It typically provides funding, mentorship, and resources to help startups develop their products, build their teams, and attract customers. Accelerators usually have a fixed duration, ranging from a few months to a year, during which startups work intensively on their business with the support of the accelerator. They often provide office space, access to a network of mentors and investors, and educational workshops and events. The goal of a startup accelerator is to help startups achieve rapid growth and increase their chances of success. They do this by providing guidance and support in areas such as product development, marketing, sales, fundraising, and business strategy. In exchange for their support, accelerators typically take a small equity stake in the startups they work with. This aligns their interests with the success of the startups and provides them with a potential return on their investment if the startup is successful. Some well-known startup accelerators include Y Combinator, Techstars, and 500 Startups. These accelerators have a track record of success and have helped launch many successful startups.