Startup accelerators come in many forms—each with its own set of benefits, costs, and expectations. Whether you’re bootstrapping or raising venture capital, the right accelerator can give you the mentorship, connections, and momentum to move forward. In this post, we break down the three main types of accelerators—community-based, equity, and corporate—to help you figure out which model fits your goals and stage of growth.
Community-Based Startup Accelerator
Sometimes, all a founder needs is guidance from experienced mentors and a space to connect with other entrepreneurs. Community-based accelerators offer many of the same perks as traditional accelerators—mentorship, peer support, and networking—without the high costs or equity requirements.
Unlike equity or corporate accelerators, which often select startups based on investment potential, community-based programs are typically open to more founders and focus on increasing overall founder success. They may not carry the same brand recognition as larger programs, but they can be just as effective.
For example, GrowthCraft offers members access to expert mentorship, founder mastermind groups, and regular networking—all online, with no equity required.
Since these programs often don’t have strict cohorts or time commitments, they’re especially helpful for founders who are part-time or not yet ready to commit full-time hours to accelerator activities.
Equity-Based Startup Accelerator
Equity accelerators are probably what most people think of when they hear “startup accelerator.” These programs provide a small, fixed investment in exchange for equity, then support your startup with structured mentorship, workshops, and investor introductions over a set time frame.
Examples of equity accelerators:
These programs are a great fit for startups planning to raise venture capital. The advice, exposure, and momentum can help you build traction fast—and being associated with a top-tier accelerator can boost your credibility with investors.
However, equity accelerators are highly selective, often admitting only a tiny percentage of applicants. They may also require relocation and a full-time commitment during the program. Most importantly, giving away equity is a significant decision—sometimes worth it, but always worth careful consideration.
Corporate Startup Accelerator
Corporate startup accelerators are run by large companies looking to support startups in their industry. These programs are a way for corporations to connect with new technologies, emerging talent, and potential investments.
Examples of corporate accelerators:
If your startup aligns with a corporate accelerator’s focus area, the potential benefits are strong: mentorship, industry connections, customer access, and the branding bump of being associated with a big-name company.
Many corporate accelerators don’t take equity, but there are still trade-offs. Some require in-person participation or involvement in mandatory sessions that can take time away from building your product. Like equity accelerators, these programs are selective and may not be accessible to all founders.
Final Thoughts
No accelerator is one-size-fits-all. Whether you join a community, equity, or corporate program depends on your goals, your availability, and whether you’re ready to give up equity in exchange for growth. The key is choosing the model that best supports where you are today—and where you want to go next.