Incubators and accelerators

Incubators and accelerators provide very early-stage support for entrepreneurs. They offer you an environment to cultivate ideas, find skilled talent, and learn techniques for starting and scaling a sustainable company. There are some differences between the two, though. 

What is an incubator? 

Incubators offer both physical and virtual spaces where you can access entrepreneurial training, mentoring, and business support.  

Incubator programmes tend to last around two years. They usually have selection criteria for admission that you’ll need to meet. They also tend to work on ‘rolling admission’ – meaning your application will likely be evaluated as soon as it’s received. 

You'll benefit from peer support, expert advice, and early financial backing – meaning you can build a solid foundation for your business before moving on. 

What is an accelerator? 

An accelerator also provides training, mentoring and business support in a physical or virtual space. But it does this through time-bound, cohort-based learning programmes – which could last from three to twelve months. They have an emphasis on rapid growth and successful seed funding.

Accelerator programmes may offer training, network access, and mentors. They may also connect you with angel investor networks and potential funders.  

Both incubators and accelerators are invaluable resources for start-ups and early-stage companies, and while they are competitive, there are a lot of them to choose from in Scotland.