Accelerator
Definition
Accelerator: An accelerator is a fixed-term program that provides startups with mentorship, resources, and often investment in exchange for equity. Programs like Y Combinator, Techstars, and 500 Startups help founders build their companies and connect with investors through demo days.
Example Usage
“Our YC batch gave us $500K, incredible mentors, and introductions that led to our seed round.”
Common Misconceptions
Related Terms
Incubator
An incubator is an organization that supports early-stage startups with resources like office space, mentorship, and services. Unlike accelerators, in...
Pre-Seed
Pre-seed is the earliest stage of startup funding, typically used to validate an idea, build an initial prototype, or conduct customer discovery. Pre-...
Demo Day
Demo Day is an event where accelerator cohorts pitch to a large audience of investors. Startups typically present brief pitches showcasing their progr...
Venture Capital
Venture capital is a form of private equity financing provided by firms (VCs) to startups with high growth potential. VCs raise funds from limited par...
Explore More Resources
Browse Tools
Discover 100+ vetted tools for every stage of your startup journey
Explore all toolsBuild Your Stack
Take our personalized quiz to get tool recommendations for your startup
Start the checklistRecommended Reading
Curated books to help you learn, grow, and succeed as a founder
View book recommendationsListen & Learn
Top podcasts covering startups, product, growth, and entrepreneurship
Discover podcastsHelp us improve this definition
See something that could be clearer or more accurate? Let us know.