How to Choose the Right Incubator: Key Criteria to Consider

🔍 Let’s Start with the Basics: Why Join an Incubator?

An incubator is not just a workspace. It’s a powerful springboard for accelerating your startup’s growth. A study by Boston Consulting Group shows that startups supported by an incubator have a survival rate twice as high as those that operate independently.

✅ Key benefits:

• Strategic support: mentorship, coaching, tailored training
• Access to resources: office spaces, labs, technical equipment
• A strong network: investors, partners, and industry experts

But above all, being part of an incubator means evolving in a stimulating ecosystem. Surrounded by other entrepreneurs, you will be able to exchange ideas, challenge yourself, and accelerate your progress.

🏢 The Different Types of Incubators

Not all incubators are the same. Before making your choice, it’s crucial to understand the main categories:

🔹 Public incubators: Funded by institutions or universities, they often support high-impact or tech projects.

🔹 Private incubators: Business-oriented, they focus on high-growth startups and may take an equity stake.

🔹 Corporate incubators: Created by large companies, they aim to foster innovation in their industry by hosting complementary startups.

🔹 Specialized incubators: Dedicated to specific industries such as deeptech, foodtech, or greentech.

The goal is to choose an incubator that aligns with your project and its specific needs.

🤔 How to Assess Your Needs Before Choosing?

Before applying, take the time to clarify your expectations. Ask yourself these three essential questions:

1️⃣ What industry is my project in?

2️⃣ What stage of development is my startup at?

3️⃣ What are my top priorities?

🔹 Need funding? Choose an incubator well-connected to investors.

🔹 Need mentorship? Check the quality and availability of experts.

🔹 Need to test your product? An incubator close to your target market will be a strong asset.

📌 Real-life example: Camille, founder of a foodtech startup, joined ToasterLAB, a specialized incubator that helped her test her product with major distributors.

📑 Admission Criteria: Prepare a Strong Application

To join an incubator, you must submit a compelling application. Here’s what is usually required:

🔹 A well-structured project: clear business model, in-depth market research

🔹 A strong team: complementary skills, long-term commitment

🔹 A unique innovation: your solution should bring real added value

🔹 Credible growth prospects: scalability and an addressable market

💡 Good to know: Some incubators, such as IMT Starter, require proof of concept and initial user feedback before accepting a startup.

🔎 Services & Support: What to Compare

Not all incubators offer the same level of support. Here’s what to analyze:

🔹 Mentorship: Who are the experts? Are they accessible?

🔹 Network: Have startups incubated there raised funds or achieved success?

📌 Example: Blablacar, incubated at Numa, benefited from a structured network that helped it transition from a startup to a global carpooling leader.

🔹 Specialized support: Access to legal, marketing, and fundraising advice.

💰 Cost & Location: Strategic Factors

• Fees: Some incubators are free but take an equity stake (Example: Y Combinator). Others charge monthly fees (between €150 and €500 on average).
• Location: Prioritize an incubator close to your target market and key resources.

📌 Example: An agri-food startup could benefit from an incubator like Village Start-Up, specializing in agriculture and foodtech.

🎤 Meet the Teams & Alumni

Before making your decision, visit the incubator and speak with past participants. Their feedback will give you a clearer picture of what the incubator can actually offer you.

Questions to ask:

➡️ What resources were the most helpful?

➡️ What challenges did you face?

➡️ Would you recommend this incubator?

🚀 The Benefits of Choosing the Right Incubator

A well-chosen incubator multiplies your chances of success. It helps you structure your project and accelerate growth. According to La Boussole, a startup that joins an incubator doubles its chances of success.

🎯 Conclusion: Make the Right Choice Today!

Choosing an incubator is a key milestone in your entrepreneurial journey. By assessing your needs, comparing offers, and meeting the teams, you will find the perfect structure to turn your vision into success.

🚀 Ready to take action? Start your search on Launchbase, prepare a strong application, and join the incubator that will propel your project forward.

Your next success story could be yours! ✨