Accelerators and Incubators for Digital Nomad Startups: How to Benefit from These Programs for Funding and Support
If you're thinking about starting a digital nomad startup, one of the first things you'll need to do is decide how to get funding. There are many different ways to do this, including crowdfunding and seeking out investors. However, there is another option that doesn't require as much money or effort: applying for an accelerator or incubator program. These programs offer funding and other resources in exchange for a small equity stake in your company. Here's what you need to know about accelerators and incubators before applying:
What are accelerators and incubators?
Accelerators and incubators are programs that help startups grow. Accelerators are for startups that are already formed, while incubators are for those still in the idea phase. Accelerators can last anywhere from three months to one year, and they provide funding, mentorship and office space to their participants in exchange for a percentage of equity (usually between 5% and 10%). In contrast, incubators tend to be longer term than accelerators--some last up to two years--and provide less funding but more guidance as you build your company out of their facilities.
How do you find the right one?
Once you have identified the type of accelerator or incubator that fits your needs, it's time to start looking at the specifics.
The first thing to look at is their track record. What kind of companies have they helped in the past? Are there any success stories that can give you an idea of what kind of support you can expect from them? If so, how successful were those startups after graduating from this program? You should also check out which mentors are involved with a particular program and see how closely aligned their experience is with yours (e.g., if they're experts in social media marketing but all your competitors use SEO).
The next thing worth considering is location: Is this accelerator located near where I live now or do I need to relocate temporarily for it? Does it make sense logistically for me because there might not be enough value added by moving my entire business over there when there are other options closer by (like coworking spaces). This will also affect travel costs--if we're talking about flying back-and-forth every week then that could add up quickly!
What is the difference between accelerators and incubators?
Accelerators and incubators are two different types of startup programs. Accelerators focus on business and marketing, while incubators focus on technology and product development. Accelerators usually have a shorter time frame than incubators (for example, three months versus six months), but they also take equity in your company as part of their investment package. Incubators don't require you to give up any ownership in your startup as part of their investment package; however, they may ask for other concessions such as equity or royalties on future sales if they do invest in your company's product or service.
What do I need to consider before applying to a startup accelerator or incubator?
Before applying to an accelerator or incubator, you should do your research.
Use the right tools. There are many resources that can help you find the right program for your business and make sure it will be a good fit for you. You can start by checking out our Accelerator Directory which lists over 800 accelerators worldwide and provides information about each one like funding amount, number of startups accepted per cohort, admission criteria and more.
Check out their alumni list - this will give you an idea of what types of companies have gone through these programs in the past so that when applying for them now (if eligible), you'll know exactly what kind of startup might be accepted into theirs next round!
Ask yourself if this is something I'm ready to commit fully towards? Before jumping into any type of "accelerator experience", make sure there's not another option available somewhere else first because although great things come from being part of one--it also means committing 100% time-wise while also paying extra money upfront just so they can take care all aspects involved within running such businesses like marketing strategy development etc...
It's worth it to apply to several different startup accelerators and incubators before making a decision.
It's worth it to apply to several different startup accelerators and incubators before making a decision. You can find a list of programs here.
You should do your research on each program, make sure you are a good fit for it, and ask around about what people think of the program or organization. For example: if you want to go through an accelerator program in Silicon Valley but don't have any connections there yet--or even any idea where to start--you may want to consider applying elsewhere until you're ready for that level of commitment (and expense).
I hope this article has helped you understand the difference between accelerators and incubators, as well as how to find the right one for your startup. These programs are a great way to get funding, but they also provide support in other areas such as marketing and networking with other entrepreneurs who can help you succeed. If you're looking for more information on this topic, check out our blog post on how to apply for an accelerator program!