Startup accelerators have become an increasingly popular option for early stage startup founders looking to grow their businesses. These programs offer a range of resources and support to startups in exchange for equity in the company. But are startup accelerators worth it? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of startup accelerators and answer some common questions about how they work.

Do accelerators charge money?

Startup accelerators usually do not charge money to participate in their programs. Instead, they provide mentorship, resources, and funding in exchange for equity in the startup. Be wary if you come across an accelerator program that has a fee associated with it. In our experience, paid accelerators are typically low-quality, a scam preying on first-time founders, or both.

What is the benefit of a startup accelerator?

The main benefit of a startup accelerator is the access to resources and support that it provides. This can be invaluable to early-stage startups that are looking to grow quickly. Accelerators offer mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors, as well as access to a network of industry professionals who can provide guidance and connections. They also often provide workspace, access to funding, and other resources that startups may not be able to afford on their own.

How do accelerators work?

Accelerators typically run for a fixed period of time, usually around 3-6 months. During this time, startups participate in a structured program that is designed to help them grow and scale their businesses. Since most accelerators focus on growth, they are best suited for startups past the idea stage with some revenue traction. The programs usually include mentorship, workshops, networking events, and other resources that are tailored to the needs of the participating startup ventures.

At the end of the program, startups usually have the opportunity to pitch their businesses to investors on demo day. This can be a great way to gain exposure and secure funding for the next stage of growth.

How does the Y Combinator accelerator work? 

One of the most well-known accelerator programs is Y Combinator, which has helped launch successful companies such as Airbnb, Dropbox, and Reddit. Y Combinator is based in Silicon Valley.

Y Combinator typically selects two batches of startups per year, and each cohort lasts about three months. During this time, the startups receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors, as well as access to resources such as legal and accounting services. In addition, Y Combinator provides $500k of funding to each startup in exchange for a percentage of equity.

The program culminates in a demo day, where the startups have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a room full of investors. This can lead to further funding and partnerships for the startups. Y Combinator also has a strong alumni network, where founders can connect and collaborate with each other even after they have completed the program.

The goal of Y Combinator and other accelerator programs is to provide startups with the resources and support they need to succeed.

If you are too early for Y Combinator, check out their free Startup School program.

How does the Techstars accelerator work?

Techstars is another well-known startup accelerator program that helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses by providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program is structured similarly to Y Combinator, but with some differences in its approach.

Techstars typically runs 13-week programs in different locations around the world, each with a specific focus area. The application process is competitive, and selected startups receive funding, office space, and access to a network of mentors and advisors. Techstars also offers a "perks" program, which provides startups with discounted services from various partner companies such as Amazon Web Services and Microsoft.

Throughout the program, startups attend weekly mentorship meetings with experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, as well as participate in workshops and networking events. The program culminates in a Demo Day. At Demo Day, startups pitch their businesses to a room full of investors with the goal of securing additional funding.

The program places a strong emphasis on building a community among its participants and encourages startups to help one another and share resources. Techstars also offers ongoing support to its alumni with access to continued mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities after the program has ended.

Do accelerators actually work?

The answer to whether or not accelerators actually work is not a straightforward one, as it can depend on a variety of factors. It's important to note that not all accelerator programs are created equal. The quality of the program can vary widely depending on the managing director, the resources available, and the caliber of mentors and investors involved. 

Startups should do their due diligence and thoroughly research any accelerator program they are considering. This allows them to ensure that a program is a good fit for their needs and goals. Success in an accelerator program is not guaranteed. Startups still need to put in the hard work and make the most of the opportunities and resources provided to them.

Startup Accelerator Pros and Cons

Let's take a look at some of the pros and cons to answer: are startup accelerators worth it?

Startup Accelerator Pros

1. Access to Resources: The main benefit of startup accelerators is the access to resources that they provide. This can include mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding. These resources can be invaluable to early-stage startups that are looking to grow quickly.
2. Exposure: Participating in a startup accelerator can also provide valuable exposure for startups. This can be a great way to gain visibility and attract the attention of investors and potential customers.
3. Structured Program: The structured educational program offered by startup accelerators can also be beneficial. This program is designed to help startups grow and scale their businesses, and can provide valuable guidance and support.
4. Mentorship: Accelerators usually provide startups with access to experienced mentors. These mentors can offer valuable advice and guidance on key business areas, such as marketing, sales, and fundraising.
5. Faster Growth: Accelerators provide startups with a lot of resources and connections. This can help a business scale faster than it would be able to on its own.

Startup Accelerator Cons

1. Equity: One of the biggest drawbacks of startup accelerators is the equity that they take in exchange for their services. This can range from 5-10% or more, depending on the program. For some startups, this equity may be too high a price to pay.
2. Inconsistent Managing Director Quality: Some accelerator programs have experienced and knowledgeable directors who offer valuable guidance, while others may have less qualified or less involved directors. This can hinder startups from achieving important milestones or cause them to fall behind their competitors and struggle to stay afloat. A managing director influences the program's culture, either fostering an environment that is collaborative and supportive or creating one that is toxic.
3. Intense Time Commitment: Accelerators can be demanding, with a heavy workload and rigorous schedule. They may require founders to devote all their time and energy to the program. This can hurt a startup since the founders are spending less time working on their business.
4. Limited Flexibility: The structured nature of many accelerator programs can limit a startup's ability to pivot or make changes to its business model. This can potentially stifle innovation and delay startups from making key changes when needed.
5. Overpromising and Under Delivering: Some accelerators may make big promises about the resources and support they will provide, only to underdeliver on these expectations. For example, the quality of the mentors can vary widely and some may not provide the level of support needed.

What questions should I ask when evaluating a startup accelerator?

Accelerator programs will do due diligence on you and your startup through their application process. Ask these questions to answer: are startup accelerators worth it for me?

1. What is the focus of the accelerator program, and does it align with my startup's goals and needs?
2. Who are the managing directors, mentors, and investors involved with the program, and what is their track record of success?
3. What is the structure and duration of the program, and what are the expectations and requirements for participating startups?
4. What resources and services are provided by the accelerator, such as mentorship, networking opportunities, funding, or office space?
5. What is the success rate of the accelerator program? Have any previous participants similar to us experienced significant growth or success as a result of the program?
6. What is the equity or investment structure of the accelerator, and how does it compare to other similar programs?
7. What is the application process like, and what are the selection criteria used by the accelerator?
8. What is the overall culture and community of the accelerator, and does it align with the values and goals of my startup?
9. How does the accelerator measure and evaluate the success of its participants, and what support is provided beyond the duration of the program?
10. What are the terms and conditions of the accelerator program, and are there any potential risks or drawbacks to participating?

Conclusion

While there is no guarantee of success, the benefits of participating in an accelerator can be invaluable to startups looking to grow quickly. The best way to maximize finding the right accelerator program for your startup is to do your own due diligence on the accelerator program, its managing director, and the quality of its mentor and investor relationships.