Incubators & Pre-accelerators to join an accelerator
Earlier, longer or lighter programs for founders still shaping the idea. Every listing below helps you join an accelerator. Ranked by editor score with what you get and who qualifies.
Updated October 2026 · 5 listings
How to choose incubators & pre-accelerators to join an accelerator
Compare accelerators on the deal (cash in exchange for what percentage of equity), the strength of the alumni and investor network, the stage and sectors they back, whether the programme is remote or in person, and their batch dates. A good accelerator is a fundraising shortcut; a weak one costs you equity for a coworking desk.
YC Startup School 🚀 AcceleratorFree
Y Combinator's free, self-paced online course with weekly progress updates and co-founder matching.
Berkeley SkyDeck Pad-13 🚀 AcceleratorFree
SkyDeck's incubator track for idea-stage teams with a University of California-affiliated founder.
STATION F Fighters Program 🚀 AcceleratorFree
Free STATION F programme in Paris for founders from atypical or underprivileged backgrounds.
STATION F Founders Program 🚀 AcceleratorPaid
STATION F's own early-stage programme in Paris: desks from EUR 259 a month for 3 to 18 months, rolling applications.
Founder Institute 🚀 AcceleratorPaid
Part-time pre-accelerator in 200+ cities: paid entrance fee plus a 2.5% equity warrant, no investment.
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🎁 Join an accelerator programs (1) Join an accelerator: the step