Menu
▾
▾
Property types
▾
Research and reports
Campaigns
Resources
3-minute read
Catriona Smith
8 February 2022
If you’re looking to grow your small business or get your startup idea off the ground, you might be considering a business incubator or startup accelerator. But what’s the difference? And how do you choose which one’s right for you?
This quick-start guide will explain more about how incubators and accelerators work, who they’re for, and where to find one.
Are you looking to take your side hustle full time? Or have you got a great idea for a product or service, but lack the capital to bring it to market? Business incubators and startup accelerators are highly competitive, but could give you the support you need to achieve your business potential.
A business incubator provides startups and new businesses with support and resources to help them grow. They’re more focused on helping you develop your business ideas than rapid growth. For example, if you need support writing your business plan, preparing investment pitches, or market research and testing.
In general, incubator business support may include:
Business incubator programmes usually involve:
Business incubators occasionally offer funding, although it’s not their main focus. In fact, a government report into the landscape of incubators and accelerators in the UK found that just 14 per cent of business incubators in the UK offered funding to entrepreneurs. And while the average amount given was £25,000, it’s important to note that this was through a mix of loans and grants in exchange for equity.
While business incubators help with developing ideas over a longer period, a startup accelerator may be an option for a fast-growing business that’s ready to scale.
You’ll have a great idea and a solid business plan, but perhaps won’t have the capital you need. An accelerator programme can help deliver rapid growth by providing funding and other services.
Similar to venture capital, a startup accelerator can provide early investment (seed capital) in exchange for equity in your business.
As well as funding, support and services can include:
Startup accelerator programmes usually involve:
Incubators are spread relatively evenly throughout the UK. They’re often focused on helping local startups, so you can try searching for business incubators near you or speaking to a financial advisor.
Different organisations run business incubators, including:
For example, Barclays Eagle Labs offers a range of virtual accelerators and programmes with access to incubators. Or check out the London Business School Incubator programme or the Sussex Innovation Centre.
Your email address will be used by Simply Business so that we can send you the latest guides, offers and tips. You can unsubscribe from these emails at any time. For more information, check out the Simply Business
privacy policy.
If you’re looking for a startup accelerator, London has the highest proportion across the country – more than half are based in the UK capital, according to the government’s report. And that’s no surprise as it’s one of the top cities for startups globally, according to Startup Genome.
A lot of accelerators have a broad focus on digital technology, or no specific sector at all, but make sure you choose one that fits your needs.
To give you an idea, here are a few examples of startup accelerators in London:
There’s also a growing trend for accelerators in cities such as Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, and Manchester. WeWork Labs, for example, offers mentorship and community to entrepreneurs across its locations.
Whatever you decide, make sure you’re clear about your actions and goals. You don’t want to give up equity in your business if you’re not getting the right mentoring or support to take it in the direction you want.
If you’re still considering your funding options, you could apply to Simply Business’s annual Business Boost competition for the chance to win a cash prize to help start or grow your business. Register your interest for Business Boost to be the first to know about future grants.
Aside from our grant, you could look elsewhere to other business grants, small business loans, or crowdfunding.
Business finance is complicated, so you should speak to a professional advisor or an accountant if you’re unsure of anything.
Have you used a business incubator or startup accelerator? Let us know in the comments.
Photograph 1: Vasyl/stock.adobe.com
Photograph 2: Prostock-studio/stock.adobe.com
As one of the UK's biggest business insurance providers, we specialise in public liability insurance and protect more trades than anybody else. Why not take a look now and build a quick, tailored quote?
We create this content for general information purposes and it should not be taken as advice. Always take professional advice.
Read our full disclaimer
Find this article useful? Spread the word.
Keep up to date with Simply Business. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and follow us on social media.
6th Floor
99 Gresham StreetLondonEC2V 7NG
Sol House29 St Katherine's StreetNorthamptonNN1 2QZ
© Copyright 2022 Simply Business. All Rights Reserved. Simply Business is a trading name of Xbridge Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Registration No: 313348). Xbridge Limited (No: 3967717) has its registered office at 6th Floor, 99 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7NG.
