Accelerator programmes - the basic information that you need
by Startacus Admin
Are you considering taking part in an accelerator programme? We take a look at some of the basic information that you need.
Accelerator Programmes may have been responsible for some of the companies we know and love today - Dropbox and Reddit to name but two - but does that mean they would work for you and your startup? Well...quite possibly. 
The key thing is to do a little research on the programme you are interested in, who its’ former clients are, what it could potentially offer you and how your startup could benefit.
If you are considering going down the Accelerator Programme route, here are a few of the basics you ought to know:
On the whole, most Accelerator Programmes follow a pretty tried and tested format:
- They run for a set pre-determined time period, which can be anything from 13 weeks to a year in length
- They offer attendees or ‘clients’ an intensive programme of support, mentoring and advice
- They provide startups with introductions and networking opportunities with leading investors, funders and business mentors
- They facilitate the development, progression and shaping of an idea, product or service
- They frequently provide seed investment in return for business equity
Benefits of participating include:
- a ‘hot-house’ environment to help your startup idea or product grow
- dedicated support, advice and guidance from ‘experts’
- direct links with investors and funders who could add that always welcome cash injection to your business
- raising of your business’ profile and strengthening of your brand
Despite these general benefits, it’s important to define what’s important to you before you apply for any accelerator programme. After all, each one has its’ own set of Terms and Conditions which are legally binding, so make sure that there are no hidden stipulations or restrictions which could have a detrimental impact on your startup.
There’s no doubt that for some startup founders, joining an accelerator program has been the best decision they ever made. Could the same apply to you? Only research, time and lots of hard work will tell...
You might also like to check out these recent articles;
TechStars London Announces its 2014 companies
Free Scottish Startup Accelerator returns
Microsoft Ventures Accelerator London
If you like what you see here on Startacus, why not become a member of our growing community? It's free! And you'll get all this - exclusive access to our Business Toolkit, discounts and offers galore for your business via our member only business deals, the chance to network and connect with loads of fellow self-starters, and maybe even become our celebrated 'Self-Starter of the Week' and tell the world your startup tale! Join right here for free...
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
The lowdown on the innovative companies that have been accepted into Net Zero 2.0, the programme dedicated to supporting the UK’s most promising climate tech companies
Fintech startup Lightyear announces major funding boost to accelerate its plans to open up transparent and low-cost investing to everyone in Europe
Planning to build your business into a luxury brand? These tips will help you do just that...
.png)
The lowdown on Abtrace, the startup that's created an AI solution to help clinicians make more informed decisions and deliver earlier diagnosis
Micro learning made easy thanks to Uptime, the app that enables users to access 5-minute Knowledge Hacks from the world’s best books, courses and documentaries
.png)
New UK Insurtech brand Adiona launches and reveals mission to use smart tech and data to provide fairer premiums and a better customer experience
Shutterstock acquires PicMonkey to help expand its offering to small businesses, by providing additional tools to non-professionals to elevate their visual content
The future of work is flexible at Xero thanks to its new work program aiming to support its global workforce - wherever they may be
The Cork-based startup that has created Nooka Spaces, the world's first network of smart proximity office spaces designed for people who work remotely.
Thermulon launches CrowdCube campaign to help bring its innovative aerogel solution to the fast-growing global thermal insulation market.
Published on: 19th December 2012
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.
- Shutterstock Acquires Leading Creative Design Platform PicMonkey 10th Sep 2021 Shutterstock acquires PicMonkey to help expand its offering to small businesses, by providing additional tools to non-professionals to elevate their visual content
- Thermulon fundraise to support development of innovative thermal insulation product 8th Sep 2021 Thermulon launches CrowdCube campaign to help bring its innovative aerogel solution to the fast-growing global thermal insulation market.
- UK's Female Startup of the Year 2021 competition now open 3rd Sep 2021 Inspiring and ambitious female founders take note - Enterprise Nation's annual Female Startup of the Year competition is open for applications
- ECOncrete Secures $5 million+ Series A Funding 1st Sep 2021 Major funding boost for ECOncrete Tech to support development and growth of its innovative ecological marine construction solutions.
