Accelerators and incubators are programs or organizations helps early-stage companies, with specific goals and approaches. While some accelerators and incubators have a general approach and provide support to startups across different industries and geographic locations, others cater to specific sectors. For example, there are accelerators and incubators that focus on industries such as Fintech, Climate, Cybersecurity, Healthtech, and more. This specialization allows them to provide targeted resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities specific to the unique needs and challenges of startups operating in those sectors.

A startup accelerator, also known as a seed accelerator, is a business program that supports early-stage companies in their growth. These programs have a fixed timeframe and select a group of companies, forming a cohort. They are helpful for organizations at different development stages, with an emphasis on pre-revenue startups. Startups submit applications within given deadlines and, if accepted, receive guidance and help in the form of mentorship, growth-driven programs, events, deals, and potential co-working space. In exchange for negotiable equity, they also receive capital. The duration depends on the program and concludes with a graduation or demo day where startups pitch to attract further investments.

A startup incubator is a collaborative program designed to support the success of new startups through cooperation and assistance. These incubators, typically operated by non-profit organizations, often involve partnerships between public and private sectors. They offer entrepreneurs access to workspace, seed funding, mentorship, and training. It helps them addressing common challenges associated with running a startup. While some incubators are associated with universities, specifically through business schools that enable their students and alumni to participate, others are run by governments, civic bodies, startup organizations, or successful entrepreneurs. One important distinction from accelerators is that incubators generally do not provide funding or take equity in exchange.