Incubator

Incubators are programs designed to support early-stage startups through their critical formative months and years. Incubators provide startups with office space, mentoring, networking opportunities, business training, and sometimes capital. The goal is to help founders turn their ideas into viable businesses. Many incubators are non-profit and run by universities or economic development groups. Some are for-profit and take equity in the startups they incubate. Incubators are highly selective, accepting 1-5% of applicants. Venture capital firms often form relationships with top incubators to get early access to the most promising startups before they raise significant funding. Graduating from a top incubator can help a startup attract venture capital due to the validation and momentum gained through the program.