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SaaS founders face a crucial decision when seeking capital: choosing the right funding avenue for their startup’s growth. While venture capital often dominates the conversation, alternatives like accelerators, incubators, and revenue-based financing (RBF) offer distinct advantages.
It all depends on which is best for your startup. For example, if you’re not looking to give up equity so you can retain control of your company, non-dilutive funding like RBF would be your best bet.
On the other hand, giving up equity for a SaaS incubator or accelerator might be appealing because of the mentorship. That’s why in this article, we’ll break down the best SaaS accelerators and incubators and explain what qualifications you should look for.
What’s the difference between SaaS accelerators and incubators?
While both accelerators and incubators aim to support startup growth, they differ in their approach, timeline, and offerings. Understanding these differences is crucial for SaaS founders to choose the right program for their stage of development and specific needs.
Startup incubators
- Focus on early-stage SaaS startups, often still developing their business plan
- Provide mentorship and resources over a longer period (12-24 months)
- Offer workspace and networking opportunities
- Generally don’t provide direct funding or startup loans, but help startups become investor-ready
- For immediate funding needs, alternatives like revenue-based financing from ECL can provide funding in just 72 hours with a fully online, streamlined application
Startup accelerators
- Target early-stage tech startups with an MVP or high growth potential
- Offer intensive, short-term programs (3-6 months)
- Provide mentorship, networking, and often culminate in a demo day
- Typically offer seed funding ($20,000-$150,000) for 5-15% equity
- For larger funding needs without equity dilution, SaaS founders can consider ECL’s revenue-based financing options
How to Compare SaaS Accelerators and Incubators
It’s crucial to compare the following factors when choosing a SaaS accelerator or incubator—they can make or break your startup’s growth trajectory. Depending on your business goals, each model will have different benefits and drawbacks:
Program Fit
Consider how well the program aligns with your startup’s culture, stage, and needs. Look at the program’s length and intensity—incubators typically offer longer-term support, while accelerators provide more intensive, short-term programs. Assess whether the program’s focus matches your startup’s stage, whether you’re still refining your idea or ready to scale rapidly.
Available Network and Mentors
Evaluate the quality and relevance of the program’s network and mentors. Look for accelerators or incubators with a strong track record in the SaaS industry. The right connections can open doors to potential customers, partners, and investors, while experienced mentors can provide invaluable guidance tailored to SaaS-specific challenges.
Cost
Understand the full cost of participation, including any program fees, relocation expenses, and the opportunity cost of your time. Some programs may offer stipends or free workspace, which can offset costs, especially for early-stage startups operating on tight budgets.
Equity Percentages
If the program requires equity in exchange for funding or services, carefully consider the long-term implications. Accelerators typically take 5-15% equity, while incubators may have different arrangements. Weigh the value of the program against the equity you're giving up and how it aligns with your long-term ownership goals.
Funding Success
Lastly, research the program’s track record in helping startups secure follow-up funding. Look at the average amount raised by program graduates and the percentage of startups that successfully raise additional capital. This can be a good indicator of the program’s effectiveness and the strength of its investor network.
Plus, startup accelerators and incubators tend to have low-acceptance rates. Even if you apply, you might not get accepted for funding and mentorship.
Top SaaS Accelerators & Incubators For Startups
Here’s a snapshot of the top SaaS accelerators and incubators:
- Y Combinator
Y Combinator is one of the most prestigious and successful startup accelerators globally, known for launching companies like Dropbox, Airbnb, and Stripe. Their program provides funding, mentorship, and connections to help early-stage startups accelerate their growth.
Overview
- Location: Mountain View, California (with remote options)
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: $500,000 (standard deal: $125,000 for 7% equity, plus $375,000 on an uncapped safe with "Most Favored Nation" (MFN) provision)
- Equity: 9 7% for the initial investment
- YC companies have raised over $300 billion in follow-on funding
Cost: YC takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Techstars
Techstars is a global network of accelerators with a strong focus on mentorship and connecting startups with industry leaders. They offer multiple programs across various locations and industries, including SaaS.
Overview
- Multiple locations worldwide
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: $20,000 + $100,000 convertible note
- Notable alumni: SendGrid, DigitalOcean, ClassPass
- Equity: 6-10% depending on the program
- Funding success: Techstars companies have raised over $17 billion in total funding
Cost: Techstars takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- 500 Global
500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator known for its large portfolio and international focus. They provide funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to early-stage startups.
Overview
- Headquarters in San Francisco, with programs worldwide
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: $150,000
- Notable alumni: Canva, Grab, Credit Karma
- Equity: 6% for the accelerator program
Cost: 500 Global takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- AngelPad
AngelPad is a seed-stage accelerator program with offices in New York City and San Francisco. They focus on providing intensive mentorship and helping startups refine their products and business models.
Overview
- Locations: New York City and San Francisco
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: $120,000
- Equity: 7%
- Cohort size: Small, typically around 15 companies
- Strong emphasis on mentorship and product development
Cost: AngelPad takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Alchemist Accelerator
Alchemist Accelerator is a venture-backed initiative focusing on enterprise startups, including SaaS companies. They provide a structured program to help startups refine their products and connect with potential customers and investors.
Overview
- Location: San Francisco
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: Typically $36,000
- Equity: 5%
- Focus on enterprise customers and B2B startups
Cost: Alchemist takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Forum Ventures
Forum Ventures is a leading B2B SaaS accelerator with programs in San Francisco, New York, and Toronto. They focus exclusively on helping early-stage SaaS companies grow and secure funding.
Overview
- Locations: San Francisco, New York, Toronto
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: $100,000
- Specialized curriculum for B2B SaaS startups
- Access to a network of SaaS-focused mentors and investors
Cost: Equity in exchange for mentoring and a small amount of funding.
- MuckerLab
MuckerLab is an early-stage and Series A venture capital company based in Santa Monica, California.
Overview
- Location: Santa Monica, California
- Duration: Annual cohorts
- Equity: 7%
- Focus on pre-seed, seed, and early-stage startups
- Strong emphasis on hands-on mentorship and support
Cost: Equity in exchange for mentoring and funding.
- Founder Institute
Founder Institute is the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerator, with chapters in over 200 cities worldwide. They offer a part-time program to help aspiring entrepreneurs launch their businesses.
Overview
- Global presence with local chapters
- Duration: 14 weeks
- Funding: No direct funding provided
- Equity: 4% warrant
- Focus on idea-stage and early-stage startups
Cost: Program fees vary by location, typically ranging from $500 to $1,500.
- Plug and Play
Plug and Play Tech Center is a global innovation platform that connects startups with corporations and investors. They offer industry-specific accelerator programs, including ones relevant to SaaS startups.
Overview
- Headquarters in Sunnyvale, California, with locations worldwide
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Funding: $25,000 to $500,000
- Equity: 0% to 5% depending on the investment
- Industry-specific programs and corporate partnerships
- Large network of corporate partners and investors
Cost: Free to participate for selected startups.
- Gener8tor
Gener8tor is a nationally-ranked accelerator that invests in high-growth startups, including some focused on software and SaaS companies.
Overview
- Multiple locations across the United States
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Funding: $100,000
- Equity: 6-7%
- Intensive mentorship and coaching
- Strong focus on connecting startups with investors and customers
Cost: Equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Heavybit
Heavybit is a specialized accelerator focused on developer-focused startups, including many SaaS companies. They provide tailored support to help companies build and scale their products.
Overview
- Location: San Francisco, California
- Duration: 9 months
- Funding: $750,000 to $2.5M+
- Focus on developer tools and enterprise infrastructure
- Tailored program for each company
- Access to industry experts and potential customers
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding.
- Startupbootcamp
Startupbootcamp offers industry-focused accelerator programs across the globe, including programs relevant to SaaS startups.
Overview
- Multiple locations worldwide
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: €15,000
- Equity: 6-8%
- Industry-specific programs
- Access to a global network of mentors and corporate partners
Cost: Equity in exchange for funding and support.
- TinySeed
TinySeed is an accelerator specifically designed for bootstrapped SaaS founders. They provide funding and mentorship without the pressure to seek venture capital or exit quickly.
Overview
- Fully remote program
- Duration: 1 year
- Funding: $120,000 for first founder + $60,000 per additional founder (up to 3)
- Focus on bootstrapped, early-stage SaaS companies
- Mentor network of successful SaaS founders
- No requirement for rapid growth or quick exit
Cost: Takes equity (typically 10-15%) in exchange for funding and support.
- Founder Friendly Labs
Founder Friendly Labs is an incubator that focuses on helping early-stage SaaS startups grow.
Overview
- Location: San Francisco Bay Area (with remote options)
- Duration: Flexible
- Hands-on support from experienced entrepreneurs
- Focus on product development and go-to-market strategies
Cost: $1,990 for the program.
- L-SPARK
L-SPARK is a Canadian accelerator that specializes in enterprise SaaS and cloud startups.
Overview
- Location: Ottawa, Canada
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: No direct funding provided
- Intensive mentorship from successful SaaS entrepreneurs
Cost: May take equity or offer a revenue share agreement.
- Dreamit Ventures
Dreamit Ventures offers accelerator programs for various industries, including ones relevant to SaaS startups. They focus on helping startups secure pilot customers and additional funding.
Overview
- Multiple locations in the United States
- Duration: 14 weeks
- Access to a network of industry experts and investors
- Tailored programs for different verticals (e.g., HealthTech, SecureTech)
Cost: No upfront costs, but Dreamit may take equity for companies that receive follow-on funding.
- Amplify LA
Amplify LA is a startup accelerator and venture capital firm that supports early-stage companies, including SaaS startups.
Overview
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Duration: Flexible
- Funding: $50,000 to $250,000
- Focus on product development and go-to-market strategies
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding.
- Axel Springer Plug and Play Accelerator
Axel Springer Plug and Play Accelerator is a Berlin-based program that supports digital entrepreneurs, including SaaS startups.
Overview
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: €25,000
- Equity: 5%
- Access to Axel Springer’s media network
- Mentorship from industry experts and entrepreneurs
Cost: Free to participate, but the accelerator takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Techstars Boston
Techstars Boston is part of the global Techstars network, focusing on supporting innovative startups in the Boston area, including SaaS companies.
Overview
- Location: Boston, Massachusetts
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: $20,000 + $100,000 convertible note
- Equity: 6%
- Access to Techstars’ global network
- Intensive mentorship and networking opportunities
Cost: Free to participate, but Techstars takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- The Accelerator Network
The Accelerator Network runs various programs in the UK, supporting startups across different sectors, including SaaS. They provide tailored support and connections to help startups grow.
Overview
- Location: United Kingdom (various locations)
- Access to a network of mentors and investors
- Tailored support for different industries and growth stages
Cost: Varies by program.
- Surge
Surge is a rapid scale-up program for startups in India and Southeast Asia, run by Sequoia Capital India
Overview
- Locations: India and Southeast Asia
- Duration: 16 weeks
- Funding: $1 million to $2 million
- Access to Sequoia's network of founders, operators, and experts
- Support with hiring, product, and growth
Cost: Equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Startup Reykjavik
Startup Reykjavik is an accelerator program based in Iceland that supports startups from various sectors, including SaaS. They offer mentorship, funding, and connections to the Nordic startup ecosystem.
Overview
- Duration: 10 weeks
- Funding: €15,000
- Equity: 6%
- Access to Nordic and European markets
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
Cost: Equity in exchange for funding and support.
- APX
APX is an early-stage accelerator based in Berlin, supporting digital startups including SaaS companies. They offer tailored programs and long-term support for portfolio companies.
Overview
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 100 days initial program, with ongoing support
- Funding: €50,000
- Equity: 5%
Cost: Equity in exchange for funding and support.
- DLL’s Startup Bootcamp for IoT
While focused on Internet of Things (IoT) startups, DLL’s Startup Bootcamp program often includes SaaS companies developing solutions for the IoT space.
Overview
- Location: London, UK
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: €15,000
- Equity: 6-8%
- Specialized mentorship for IoT and related SaaS solutions
- Access to corporate partners and potential customers
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- LeadX Capital Partners
LeadX Capital Partners is a venture capital firm that also runs accelerator programs for B2B SaaS startups. They focus on helping companies achieve product-market fit and scale their operations.
Overview
- Location: Munich, Germany
- Duration: Flexible
- Has invested in over 70 companies
- Hands-on operational support
- Access to a network of industry experts and potential customers
Cost: Mentorship in exchange for equity.
- Metaprop
MetaProp is a New York-based accelerator focused on real estate technology (proptech) startups, including many SaaS companies serving the real estate industry.
Overview
- Location: New York City, NY
- Duration: 22 weeks
- Funding: Up to $250,000
- Equity: Up to 10%
- Specialized curriculum for proptech startups
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Startup Wise Guys
Startup Wise Guys is a B2B SaaS accelerator with programs across Europe. They offer mentorship, funding, and connections to help early-stage startups grow.
Overview
- Multiple locations across Europe
- Duration: 5 months
- Funding: Up to €100,000
- Equity: Up to 10%
- Focus on B2B SaaS startups
- Extensive network of mentors and alumni
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Buildergroop
Buildergroop is a remote accelerator program focused on helping Gen-Z entrepreneurs succeed.
Overview
- Fully remote program
- Duration: 12 weeks
- No direct funding provided
- Peer-to-peer learning and accountability
Cost: Free.
- Salesforce Accelerate
Salesforce Accelerate is a virtual accelerator program designed to help SaaS companies build, market, and launch their apps on the Salesforce AppExchange.
Overview
- Fully virtual program
- Duration: 4 months
- No direct funding provided
- Access to Salesforce technology and expertise
- Potential for partnership with Salesforce
Cost: Free.
- Founders Factory
Founders Factory is a startup studio and accelerator that works with corporate partners to support startups across various sectors, including SaaS.
Overview
- Location: London, UK (with programs in other locations)
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: £30,000
- Equity: 7%
- Hands-on operational support
- Access to corporate partners and potential customers
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Wayra
Wayra is Telefónica’s global innovation hub, supporting digital startups, including many SaaS companies, across Europe and Latin America.
Overview
- Multiple locations across Europe and Latin America
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: Up to €150,000
- Access to Telefónica’s network and resources
- Mentorship from industry experts
- Potential for partnerships with Telefónica
Cost: Varies by program and location.
- Microsoft for Startups
Microsoft for Startups is a global program that helps B2B startups, including many SaaS companies, scale their solutions.
Overview
- Global program with multiple locations
- Duration: Flexible
- Up to $120,000 in Azure credits
- Access to Microsoft’s technology and expertise
- Go-to-market and sales support
Cost: Free.
- Google for Startups Accelerator
Google for Startups Accelerator is a global program supporting tech startups, including SaaS companies, with Google’s resources and expertise.
Overview
- Duration: 3 months
- No direct funding provided
- Mentorship from Google experts
- Access to Google’s technologies and platforms
- Equity-free program
Cost: Free.
- Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator (ERA)
ERA is a New York City-based accelerator that supports early-stage startups, including many SaaS companies, with funding, mentorship, and resources.
Overview
- Location: New York City, NY
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: $100,000
- Equity: 8%
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Betaworks Camp
Betaworks Camp is a thematic accelerator program that focuses on emerging trends in technology, often including SaaS startups.
Overview
- Location: New York City
- Duration: 11 weeks
- Funding: $200,000
- Equity: 8%
- Theme-based cohorts (e.g., AI, Blockchain, Voice)
- Access to Betaworks’ network of experts and investors
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Startmate
Startmate is an accelerator program supporting the most ambitious founders in Australia and New Zealand, including many SaaS startups.
Overview
- Locations: Sydney and Melbourne, Australia
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Funding: $75,000 AUD
- Equity: 7.5%
- Mentorship from successful founders and operators
- Access to a network of investors in Australia and the US
Cost: Takes equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Alpha Lab
Alpha Lab is a Pittsburgh-based accelerator program that supports early-stage tech startups, including SaaS companies.
Overview
- Location: Pittsburgh, PA
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Funding: £50,000
- Equity: 8%
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs
- Access to Sheffield’s growing tech ecosystem
Cost: Mentorship in exchange for convertible notes or equity.
- Accelerace
Accelerace is a Danish accelerator and early-stage investor that supports startups across various industries, including many SaaS companies.
Overview
- Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: Up to €70,000
- Equity: 8%
Cost: May take equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Founders Boost
Founders Boost is a global pre-accelerator program that helps early-stage tech startups, including SaaS companies, prepare for accelerators, investment, and scaling.
Overview
- Multiple locations worldwide
- Duration: 6 weeks
- No direct funding provided
- Pre-accelerator program to prepare startups for full accelerators
- Mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs
Cost: Free.
- Mass Challenge
MassChallenge is a global network of zero-equity startup accelerators, supporting high-impact startups across industries, including many SaaS companies.
Overview
- Multiple locations worldwide (Boston, Israel, Mexico, Switzerland, and more)
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: No upfront funding, but offers cash prizes to top startups
- Access to corporate partners and a global network of mentors
Cost: Free.
- Innoventures
Innoventures is an Egyptian accelerator program that supports tech startups, including SaaS companies, in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Overview
- Location: Cairo, Egypt
- Duration: 6 months
- Funding: Up to $25,000
- Equity: 8%
- Mentorship from regional experts
- Access to Middle Eastern and North African markets
Cost: May take equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Invest2Innovate
Invest2Innovate is a Pakistan-based accelerator that supports startups, including SaaS companies, in emerging markets.
Overview
- Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
- Duration: 3 months
- Focus on startups in Pakistan and other emerging markets
- Mentorship and capacity building support
Cost: Equity for mentorship and funding.
- SparkLabs
SparkLabs is a network of accelerators across Asia, supporting startups including many SaaS companies in various tech hubs.
Overview
- Multiple locations across Asia (Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, etc.)
- Duration: 3 months
- Funding: $40,000
- Equity: 6%
- Access to Asian markets and investors
Cost: May take equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Startup Lisboa
Startup Lisboa is a Portuguese incubator and accelerator that supports tech startups, including SaaS companies, with a focus on helping them scale internationally.
Overview
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Duration: 6-12 months
- No direct funding provided
- Access to co-working space and resources
Cost: Free to apply to obtain equity and mentorship.
- Kickstart Accelerator
Kickstart Accelerator is a Swiss program that connects late-stage startups, including SaaS companies, with established organizations, universities, and investors.
Overview
- Location: Zurich, Switzerland
- Duration: 11 weeks
- No direct funding provided
- Focus on fostering partnerships with corporations
Cost: Free.
- Flat6Labs
Flat6Labs is a regional startup accelerator program that operates across the Middle East and North Africa, supporting tech startups including SaaS companies.
Overview
- Multiple locations across MENA region
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: Varies by location (typically $30,000 - $50,000)
- Equity: 10-15%
Cost: May take equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Fintech FUSion
Fintech FUSion is a Swiss-based accelerator focused on fintech startups, including many SaaS companies in the financial sector.
Overview
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Duration: 12 months
- Funding: CHF 15,000 grant
- Mentorship from fintech experts and executives
Cost: Free.
- H-FARM
H-FARM is an Italian innovation platform that runs accelerator programs for digital startups, including many SaaS companies.
Overview
- Location: Treviso, Italy
- Duration: 4 months
- Funding: Up to €100,000
- Equity: 10%
Cost: May take equity in exchange for funding and support.
- Lighthouse Labs
Lighthouse Labs is a Virginia-based accelerator that supports early-stage tech startups, including many SaaS companies.
Overview
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Equity: None (equity-free program)
- Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs
- Access to a network of investors and partners
Cost: Free.
- ATP Innovations
ATP Innovations is an Australian technology business incubator that supports startups, including SaaS companies, in various stages of growth.
Overview
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- Mentorship and business support services
- Connections to Australian investors and partners
Cost: 5% equity.
- Innosphere
Innosphere is an incubator and accelerator that supports science and high-tech startups, in Colorado
Overview
- Duration: 6-12 months
- No direct funding provided
- Access to co-working space and resources
- Mentorship from local entrepreneurs and experts
- Connections to Manchester’s growing tech ecosystem
Cost: Membership fees apply, varying based on the level of support required.
Get funding for your SaaS company
While accelerators and incubators offer valuable support and resources for SaaS startups, they’re not the only path to success. Many founders seek alternative funding options that allow them to maintain control and equity in their companies. If you’re looking for flexible funding without the constraints of traditional accelerator programs, consider exploring RBF with Efficient Capital Labs (ECL).
ECL offers SaaS companies up to $2 million in non-dilutive funding, based on your recurring revenue. With a straightforward application process and funding available in as little as 72 hours, ECL provides the capital you need to fuel your growth on your terms.
Whether you’re scaling your team, investing in marketing, or expanding your product offerings, ECL’s RBF solution can help you achieve your goals without sacrificing equity or control.
Learn more about SaaS funding with ECL
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