Grow your start-up with Florida's best accelerators & incubators

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Choosing The Right Accelerator

Start-ups are hard. Choose an accelerator that guides you in the right direction.

Patrick Collison, Founder of Stripe

"I doubt that Stripe would have worked without YC. It's that simple."

Patrick Collison, Founder, Stripe

Chris Lynch, Founder of Atlas Venture

"Accelerators claim they are in it for the long haul — I call bullshit"

Chris Lynch, Founder, Atlas Venture

Raj Aggarwal, Founder of Localytics

"The network we built with Techstars was incredibly valuable during and after the program."

Raj Aggarwal, Founder, Localytics

What truly matters

Do they know why they succeeded in the past?

Do they really value your time?

Two-way communication > Interview

Look for partners not investors

Discover your perfect match

No accelerator or incubator is perfect for every start-up. Your business’s context and constraints matter. Identify your perfect match by answering this short questionnaire.

Florida's Top Accelerators By Neighborhoods

Comparing Accelerators

NameAerial ScoreStandard DealAddress#Investments#ExitsDetails
Techstars Miami Powered by J.P. Morgan9.9$120K for 6% equityMiami, FL, USA6,002475Learn more
Lightship Bootcamp4.5Florida, USA27Learn more
Endeavor Miami4.52751 N Miami Ave #7, Miami, FL 33127, USA20Learn more
Rokk3r4.52121 NW 2nd Ave UNIT 203, Miami, FL 33127, USA101Learn more
University of Central Florida Business Incubator4.53259 Progress Dr, Orlando, FL 32826, USA2Learn more
University of Central Florida - Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership4.5Business Administration I, 12744 Pegasus Dr Room 135, Orlando, FL 32816, USA2Learn more
Florida State University - The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship4.5Roderick K. Shaw, 644 W Call St, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USALearn more
University of South Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship4.5up to $40K4202 E. Fowler Ave., BSN 3403, Tampa, FL 33620, USALearn more
Florida Atlantic University - Adams Center for Entrepreneurship4.5777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USALearn more
University of Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation4.5Gainesville, FL 32611, USALearn more
UF Innovate Ventures4.5747 SW 2nd Ave # 115, Gainesville, FL 32601, USALearn more
Barry University - Entrepreneurial Institute4.5up to $20K11171-11281 N Miami Ave, Miami Shores, FL 33168, USALearn more
Cobuild Lab4.46450 NW 102nd Ct, Doral, FL 33178, USALearn more
University of Miami - The Launch Pad4.41280 Stanford Dr Room 1078, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USALearn more
StarterStudio4.4130 S Orange Ave Suite B, Orlando, FL 32801, USA1Learn more
EcoTech Visions4.41020 NW 163rd Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33169, USALearn more
Florida-Israel Business Accelerator4.4522 N Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606, USALearn more
Bizion Group4.4Florida, USALearn more
Goldstein Business Accelerator4.4381 S Central Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765, USALearn more
Tampa Bay Innovation Center4.31101 4th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA18Learn more

This page covers the top accelerators and incubators in Florida.

However if geography isn’t a hard constraint, and you are only looking for the best incubators and accelerators across the US, check here.

Brief Overview Of Different Accelerators

1) Techstars Miami Powered by J.P. Morgan

Techstars Miami Powered by J.P. Morgan - supporting Florida's best founders

Startup Accelerator program Techstars Miami Powered by J.P. Morgan is designed to help founders achieve product-market fit quicker. The program aims to shorten the typical 3-5 year timeline for success and increase the number of successful startups. Participants receive $120,000 in initial funding and guidance on efficient fundraising. The accelerator also assists in recruiting top remote engineering talent to support the startups. One of the biggest draw for founders to choose this specific accelerator is Andres Barreto, the Managing Director of Techstars Miami. He has an extensive background of working with start-ups and has invested in 130+ start-ups. Techstars Miami operates on a hybrid format with in-person and remote sessions over a 12-week duration. The curriculum includes networking, workshops, mentor sessions, and investor days. The accelerator targets founders who understand customer pain points and can execute rapidly, especially focusing on those often overlooked by traditional venture capital channels. While specialization domains may vary, Techstars provides a strong support network of mentors and investors to nurture startups towards success.

Techstars Miami Powered by J.P. Morgan's Website
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2) Lightship Bootcamp

Lightship Bootcamp - accelerating exceptional start-ups in Florida

Lightship Bootcamp (formerly known as NewME Accelerator) is a FREE founder-focused entrepreneur education program, running for a 12-week period. It serves early-stage business founders, particularly targeting minority and female tech founders who often encounter challenges in company growth and funding. The accelerator offers structured educational content, mentorship, and networking opportunities to underrepresented entrepreneurs, empowering them to reevaluate strategies in product development, sales, and marketing. Lightship Bootcamp supports the ecosystem by providing year-round training, applied coursework in branding, marketing, product development, AI, legal aspects, and fundraising, as well as specialized programming for technology-focused economic development. Founded by Angela Benton, Toby Morning, and Wayne Sutton, the accelerator aims to drive inclusive acceleration and provide support for remarkable, scalable companies that may be overlooked by traditional investors. Their focus remains on uplifting minority and female founders in the tech industry.

Lightship Bootcamp's Website
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3) Endeavor Miami

Endeavor Miami - Florida's true entrepreneurial hub

Endeavor Miami is a leading accelerator that is part of the global Endeavor network, supporting high-impact entrepreneurs across various industries such as technology, consumer goods, and healthcare. The mission of the organization is to inspire entrepreneurs, invest in their growth, and provide a platform for them to contribute back to the community. In 2023, the program led to the collective generation of over $800 million in revenues by Miami's Endeavor Entrepreneurs, who also employed more than 6,000 individuals. Currently, the accelerator supports 35 companies driven by 60 High-Impact Endeavor Entrepreneurs. The founders of Endeavor are Linda Rottenberg and Peter Kellner. Endeavor offers entrepreneurs access to a wide array of benefits including connections to investors at different stages, networking events, co-working spaces, ongoing support, access to local talent pools, information on business incentives, collaborations with chambers of commerce, and partnerships with higher education institutions.

Endeavor Miami's Website
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4) Rokk3r

Rokk3r - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Florida

Rokk3r is a strategic holding company that invests in creating, acquiring, and integrating companies, leveraging exponential technologies to achieve maximum social impact, value, and returns. As a venture builders platform, it provides companies with corporate innovation and co-building services. The Rokk3r Accelerator, notably the Algorand Miami Accelerator established in 2021, is dedicated to accelerating startups by supporting the development of projects and business models addressing real-world challenges within the Web 3.0 ecosystem. Their approach to venture building emphasizes the utilization of the Jobs to be Done framework and other established methodologies. The organization collaborates with Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains, other protocols, entrepreneurs, and investors, focusing on cultivating the technology-driven builder community. Specializing in blockchain and Web 3.0, startups in fields like blockchain technologies and decentralized applications (dApps) benefit from access to blockchain experts, community engagement, and exposure to the Algorand platform. While specific metrics are not available, the focus on blockchain and Algorand underscores Rokk3r Accelerator's commitment to nurturing technology-driven innovation.

Rokk3r's Website
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5) University of Central Florida Business Incubator

University of Central Florida Business Incubator - Florida's true entrepreneurial hub

The University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program (UCFBIP) is a vital community resource supporting early-stage companies in Central Florida. With a mission to provide tools, training, and infrastructure for startups to achieve financial stability and high growth, it has been serving the community for several decades. They have supported 600+ start-ups, which have earned >400M in revenue. Operating across seven facilities in the region, the program offers business development, operational support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and educational resources for entrepreneurs. The program caters to a diverse range of industries, including technology and innovation, contributing to Central Florida's economy. Founded by Rashmi Gupta, it is a part of the University of Central Florida ecosystem, playing a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth in the region.

University of Central Florida Business Incubator's Website
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6) University of Central Florida - Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

University of Central Florida - Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

The University of Central Florida - Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership in Orlando, Florida, empowers students with entrepreneurial mindsets and skillsets to drive positive change through innovation and agility. Their mission is to create entrepreneurial leaders who tackle challenges with empathy and provide resources, coaching, and learning opportunities to students of all majors. The center offers free 1-on-1 startup coaching and weekly workshops for students to learn from experts. Notable startups that benefited from the institution include MJN Entertainment LLC, Community Brewhouse, DripLock, IDem Systems, and EDUWorks LLC. They provide exclusive resources, host pitch events, and competitions for cash prizes, enabling students to gain practical experience and transform their ideas into impactful innovations. Rashmi Gupta is one of the founders driving the vision of the center, which falls under the categories of Education, Training, and Universities.

University of Central Florida - Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership's Website
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7) Florida State University - The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship

Florida State University - The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship - supporting Florida's best founders

Established in 1995 through a contribution from automotive pioneer Jim Moran and JM Family Enterprises, this flagship initiative of the Florida State University College of Business is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial leaders by providing world-class executive education, applied training, and recognition. Programs such as the Small Business Executive Program and the Nonprofit Executive Program focus on enhancing leadership skills and developing actionable strategies tailored for small businesses and nonprofit organizations, respectively. Additionally, CEO Peer2Peer Groups allow established business leaders to share insights and tackle challenges collaboratively. Additional offerings include an Expert Speaker Series, EBV Accelerate, EBV Families, Jim Moran Scholars, and the Leon Entrepreneurship and Adversity Program (LEAP). The overarching mission is to empower entrepreneurs across Florida, equipping them with practical skills in business leadership and strategic planning. The institute benefits from the legacy of its notable founders and maintains a commitment to contributing to the growth and success of ventures within the Edtech and SaaS industries. With continued support from Jan Moran and The Jim Moran Foundation, it plays a critical role in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

Florida State University - The Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship's Website
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8) University of South Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship

University of South Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship - accelerating exceptional start-ups in Florida

The University of South Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship, based in Tampa, Florida, is a nationally-ranked, multidisciplinary center within the university. It focuses on entrepreneurial education, training, and research to equip diverse students with the skills needed for identifying new business opportunities and fostering successful ventures through entrepreneurship or intrapreneurship. Ranked No. 9 in the country by the Princeton Review, the center collaborates with USF CONNECT and the USF Student Innovation Incubator. The USF Student Innovation Incubator, since 2012, has supported students and alumni in launching businesses, offering resources like mentorship and education. Partnering with various colleges within USF, the center addresses a wide range of entrepreneurial topics. Additionally, the center hosts the USF Sustainability Pitch Competition, providing students with a platform to pitch ideas and win cash prizes. Founded by John S. Allen, the USF Nault Center for Entrepreneurship is a valuable asset that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurial talent within the university community.

University of South Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship's Website
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9) Florida Atlantic University - Adams Center for Entrepreneurship

Florida Atlantic University - Adams Center for Entrepreneurship - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

The Adams Center for Entrepreneurship is a dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, established by a graduate and serial entrepreneur, Scott H. Adams. The center focuses on cultivating entrepreneurial leaders capable of addressing economic and social challenges through sustainable solutions. It prepares students across diverse disciplines, including business, science, and engineering, for roles as entrepreneurs. In 2023, the organization was ranked #27 for undergraduate and #42 for graduate programs by The Princeton Review and recognized as an 'Oasis of Excellence' by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA). Notable initiatives include the Business Pitch Competition, which allows venture teams to compete for resources and networking opportunities, and the Family Business Initiative, which supports family-run firms in South Florida. Additionally, it hosts Global Entrepreneurship Week and runs 'The Shrimp Tank', which features insights from successful CEOs. With a focus on cross-disciplinary academics and community engagement, the institution equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and mentorship for sustainable careers in industries such as Edtech, General Tech, and SaaS.

Florida Atlantic University - Adams Center for Entrepreneurship's Website
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10) University of Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation

University of Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Florida

The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is a premier accelerator designed to teach, coach, and inspire students in entrepreneurial pursuits. It equips them with the necessary tools and experiences to explore innovations in start-up, social, and corporate sectors. As part of UF Innovate, the organization plays a vital role in transforming research discoveries into market applications by connecting innovators with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. The accelerator encompasses a broad spectrum of industries, including biotech, edtech, and general tech, ensuring support for diverse start-up ventures. This center features two prominent business incubators: The Hub, located in the Gainesville Innovation District, and Sid Martin Biotech, a globally recognized entity headquartered in Alachua, Florida. These incubators provide essential resources, mentorship, and physical space for emerging companies. Under the leadership of John Gardiner, it significantly contributes to fostering a resilient economy by driving innovation and entrepreneurial activities. The impact of CEI is evident in its support of various entrepreneurs and start-ups striving for success.

University of Florida - Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation's Website
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11) UF Innovate Ventures

UF Innovate Ventures - a modern, innovative hub for start-ups in Florida

The organization is a prominent accelerator program based at the University of Florida, part of the broader UF Innovate ecosystem aimed at fostering innovation. This ecosystem includes key entities such as Tech Licensing, which manages licensing for university technologies, and Ventures, which focuses on startup incubation and growth. With a track record of supporting over 300 startups, it specializes in various domains, including healthcare, software, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The program features two renowned business incubators: The Hub, located in the Gainesville Innovation District, and Sid Martin Biotech, recognized globally for its biotechnology endeavors. Entrepreneurs in the program gain access to extensive business-building capabilities and services designed to accelerate their ventures' growth and success. John Gardiner serves as a founder of this initiative, emphasizing the commitment to bridging the gap between research discoveries and market implementation. Through collaboration with investors and industry connections, the institution is a vital contributor to a resilient economy, providing entrepreneurs with the support necessary to transform innovative ideas into reality.

UF Innovate Ventures's Website
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12) Barry University - Entrepreneurial Institute

Barry University - Entrepreneurial Institute - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

The Entrepreneurial Institute at Barry University, situated within the Andreas School of Business in Miami, strives to foster growth, boost community involvement, and reduce economic disparity by providing educational training and economic development assistance. Partially funded by the Miami-Dade County Office of Community Economic Development (OCED), the institute offers on-site and on-campus services such as one-on-one consultations, community seminars, and business development support. The focus is on assisting minority-owned businesses, creating new jobs, and expanding existing enterprises. The institute supports a wide range of entrepreneurial ventures across various industries and provides access to technology, equipment, and advisers through the Barry Entrepreneurship Lab. Renowned for its work in community development and economic empowerment, the institute collaborates with student visionaries interested in starting or expanding businesses. While specific metrics and program duration are undisclosed, its impact on the community and students is evident. Categories linked to the institute include Alumni, Education, and Higher Education.

Barry University - Entrepreneurial Institute's Website
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13) Cobuild Lab

Cobuild Lab - supporting Florida's best founders

This innovative accelerator specializes in transforming ideas into sustainable businesses by focusing on Lean Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy, Technological Innovation, and Exponential Growth. It offers a structured four-phase process that includes Validate, Cobuild, Plan and Prepare, and Accelerate. In the Validate phase, the organization ensures that ideas address real market problems through expert consultation and market testing. The Cobuild phase focuses on product development, where prototypes are created to visualize the final product. Particularly adept at hiring and managing remote developers, they facilitate the creation of Web, Web3, and Mobile Software Applications. The accelerator also caters to industries such as Entertainment, Healthcare Tech, Logistics, and SaaS, emphasizing their commitment to supporting fast-growing startups globally while handling HR and legal compliance. Founded by Angel Lacret, the institution is designed to reduce time-to-market for clients while maintaining cost-effectiveness, making it an essential partner for tech startups seeking to grow and innovate.

Cobuild Lab's Website
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14) University of Miami - The Launch Pad

University of Miami - The Launch Pad - connecting start-up founders with success

The Launch Pad at the University of Miami is a dynamic entrepreneurship initiative that was established in 2008. Serving as the essential resource center for the university's entrepreneurial community, it collaborates with students, alumni, and faculty to bring commercial venture ideas to life. The mission of The Launch Pad is to help entrepreneurs start, build, and scale their businesses through 1-on-1 startup consulting, mentorship groups, networking events, and a dedicated blog keeping the entrepreneurship community informed. The center welcomes entrepreneurs from diverse fields and offers ongoing support without specifying the program duration. Most remarkably they have helped form >2000 companies. It collaborates with various university entities like the business school and engineering college, as well as external organizations such as eMerge Americas, providing access to resources like 3D printers and classroom space. The Launch Pad fosters collaboration through the Hemispheric University Consortium and supports social impact initiatives. While specific metrics like the number of startups associated and investors are not mentioned, The Launch Pad remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and facilitating connections across disciplines.

University of Miami - The Launch Pad's Website
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15) StarterStudio

StarterStudio - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

StarterStudio, a nonprofit organization based in Orlando, Florida, empowers early-stage tech founders through its three groundbreaking Accelerator programs. The institution's mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and guidance to establish enduring businesses. The Idea Stage Accelerator focuses on refining early-stage business concepts, emphasizing problem-solving abilities and fundamental business skills. Moving forward, the Build Accelerator caters to startups prepared for growth, offering mentorship and a supportive network. For startups gearing up for seed funding, the Pre-Seed Accelerator aids in business model enhancement and scaling strategies. StarterStudio prioritizes community engagement and affordability, with participants benefiting from networking opportunities, reduced program costs, and access to an esteemed alumni network. Specializing in General Tech ventures and with a program duration of 12 weeks, the organization serves as a pivotal player in nurturing tech innovation in Central Florida.

StarterStudio's Website
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16) EcoTech Visions

EcoTech Visions - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Florida

EcoTech Visions is a prominent business incubator and accelerator based in Miami, Florida, dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs in developing and launching innovative green manufacturing businesses. The organization focuses on addressing critical challenges such as climate change and systemic poverty while fostering economic development in South Florida. Specializing in various domains, including FarmTech, GreenTech, EnergyTech, and SpaceTech, it aims to cultivate sustainable solutions that promote environmental stewardship. Founding member Pandwe Gibson leads the initiative, guiding numerous local green businesses towards success. The accelerator provides essential resources designed to combat income inequality and support the growth of green jobs, enhancing the sustainable business ecosystem. Bringing together industries such as Agriculture Tech, Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, Fintech, Food and Beverage, Renewable Energy, and Space Tech, the institution solidifies its position as a key player in the advancement of eco-friendly enterprises. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability continues to benefit the local economy and inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious entrepreneurs.

EcoTech Visions's Website
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17) Florida-Israel Business Accelerator

Florida-Israel Business Accelerator - supporting Florida's best founders

Florida-Israel Business Accelerator (FIBA) is a Florida-based technology accelerator that aims to establish and grow successful, high-growth tech ventures in the Tampa Bay area. The primary mission of the organization is to connect Israel's most high-potential tech startups with partners, investors, and advisors in the United States, helping them scale and reach their full growth potential in the USA. Since its inception in 2016, the institution has successfully launched high-tech companies from Israel into the U.S. market, focusing on selecting the best-in-breed Israeli tech ventures. The accelerator collaborates with partners, investors, and advisors to support the growth of these startups, including corporate partners, government agencies, and other organizations interested in global innovation. Most proudly- 93% of their supported ventures are still in business today. And yes, 3 of their invested start-ups have had IPOs. The institution provides selected startups with funding, mentoring, and office space facilities, along with access to a network of experts, investors, and potential partners. With nearly seven years of experience, the institution continues to bridge the gap between Israel and Florida's tech ecosystems, with a specialization in Israeli hi-tech companies across various sectors. Categories associated with it include Business Development, Finance, Financial Services, and FinTech.

Florida-Israel Business Accelerator's Website
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18) Bizion Group

Bizion Group - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

A prominent business incubator and accelerator based in Miami, Florida, this organization is dedicated to supporting startups and growing businesses. It offers strategic resources tailored specifically for companies in diverse industries, including Agriculture Tech, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Edtech, Environmental Tech, Fintech, Gaming, General Tech, Healthcare Tech, Logistics and Supply Chain, and Renewable Energy. By focusing on technology and corporate sectors, the institution provides essential guidance and tools to help new ventures expand operations and achieve financial success. The accelerator is recognized for its role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Miami area. With a team of experts, participating startups receive the necessary support to navigate the challenges of growth and development effectively.

Bizion Group's Website
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19) Goldstein Business Accelerator

Goldstein Business Accelerator - supporting founders in their growth journey

Goldstein Business Accelerator is a program designed to support revenue-positive startups as they scale. Each 6-month class welcomes five companies, providing them with $100,000+ in seed funding and guidance for securing investments from larger venture capital firms. The accelerator specializes in enterprise customer development, sales, market validation, and fundraising, offering mentorship from professional organizations in various fields like international law and financial management. Additional benefits include the Innovation Garage, providing free office space for collaboration, and access to a broad network of investors and experienced mentors. Notable for its focus on enterprise customer growth, Goldstein Business Accelerator aims to propel startups to the next level through a structured path to fundraising and valuable connections. The accelerator operates in a sector-agnostic approach, supporting startups across various industries.

Goldstein Business Accelerator's Website
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20) Tampa Bay Innovation Center

Tampa Bay Innovation Center - Florida's true entrepreneurial hub

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, Tampa Bay Innovation Center is a tech business accelerator with a focus on climate tech, sustainability, resilience, and energy storage. Their mission involves supporting startups through tailored coaching, mentorship, entrepreneurial programs, expert sessions, and networking opportunities. Notable cohorts include Cohort #7 concentrating on AI & ML and Cohort #6 emphasizing Climate Tech in Spring 2023. While specific investor and funding data remains undisclosed, the center facilitates connections between emerging companies and capital providers. The B2B Accelerator program features cohorts like Cohort #6 running from March 23 to June 8. Additional benefits offered by the center include business coaching by experienced startup operators, coworking spaces for collaboration, and an array of programs and events covering all stages from ideation to execution strategies. Tampa Bay Innovation Center's expertise spans categories like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Blockchain, CleanTech, Coworking, Cyber Security, Electronics, Internet of Things, and Robotics.

Tampa Bay Innovation Center's Website
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21) TEC Garage

TEC Garage - supporting Florida's best founders

TEC Garage is an incubator and coworking space located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Established through a collaborative partnership with the St. Petersburg community and the State of Florida, it aims to provide entrepreneurs with essential tools and mentorship to accelerate their success, whether starting a new business or enhancing an existing one. The organization facilitates a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering dedicated coaching, expert sessions, and access to a valuable network. It is known to support entrepreneurs across various industries, including technology and innovation. The incubator features a collaborative coworking environment that encourages connection, learning, and growth among its members. In addition to these resources and mentorship opportunities, it actively hosts events that support local founders, thus fostering innovation and helping businesses thrive in the Tampa Bay area. The facility is sector agnostic, extending its services to a broad range of entrepreneurial ventures.

TEC Garage's Website
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22) Urban League of Broward County

Urban League of Broward County - connecting start-up founders with success

The Urban League of Broward County is a community-based organization in Fort Lauderdale, FL. It has been operating the Entrepreneurship Center for over 30 years with a goal to build community wealth through ownership. The accelerator program focuses on creating, sustaining, and growing businesses in South Florida, particularly in historically disenfranchised communities. The center offers an innovative M3 Model (Money, Market, & Management) to equip small business owners with tools for growth. They provide three distinct solutions: the Launch Package for early-stage businesses, the Solutions Package for established businesses, and the Innovation Package for profitable businesses. The center emphasizes offering comprehensive business development services to support entrepreneurs in historically disenfranchised communities. These services include the Small Business Loan Fund, technical assistance, business management training, and lending solutions.

Urban League of Broward County's Website
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23) OXIO Health

OXIO Health - connecting start-up founders with success

Founded in 2007 by Carl Larsen and Noel Guillama-Alvarez, OXIO Health is an innovator, incubator, and accelerator platform based in Greenacres, Florida. The organization focuses on investing in early-stage companies in the healthcare and technology sectors. With a total of 5 investments and 1 exit involving BlueBox.Care, some of the notable portfolio companies associated with the company include BlueBox.Care, CareWork Clinics, PWeR, Personal Wellness Blockchain Record, and Total Care America. Noel Guillama-Alvarez, the current CEO, leads the accelerator in its mission to drive innovation in healthcare and technology, supporting startups to bring about transformative changes in the industry.

OXIO Health's Website
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24) Research Park at FAU

Research Park at FAU - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Florida

Located in South Florida, the Research Park at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a prominent 70-acre hub for innovation, technology, and economic growth. As the only state university-affiliated research park in the region, it serves as a catalyst for emerging technology companies by fostering collaboration between high-tech companies, researchers, and students. With 29 high-tech, high-wage companies working closely with FAU faculty and students, the park focuses on deepening intellectual contributions to the economy through partnerships. In 2017, the park's 33 tenant companies employed over 3,000 people, including nearly 200 FAU interns and graduates, with an average annual salary of $88,315, resulting in a regional economic impact exceeding $535 million. FAU Tech Runway, a part of the park, has launched 52 startup companies since 2014, collectively raising over $46 million in capital, creating nearly 300 jobs, and generating more than $23 million in sales revenue. The Research Park spans various domains such as technology and healthcare, where companies collaborate with FAU researchers to drive innovation. Startups benefit from a Technology Business Incubator and FAU Tech Runway, a public-private partnership offering mentoring, funding, and networking opportunities. Notable startup Nesvio, nurtured at FAU Tech Runway, has successfully doubled its revenue in two years. Making a significant impact on South Florida's economy, the Research Park at FAU transforms it through collaboration, startup support, and technological advancement, solidifying its position as a dynamic center for economic growth and innovation.

Research Park at FAU's Website
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25) Co:Lab

Co:Lab - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

Co:Lab is a business incubator and growth accelerator based in Pensacola. It is known for the CO.LAB Sustainable Mobility Accelerator powered by gener8tor in Chattanooga, TN. The program accommodates up to twelve high-growth startups annually, split into two cohorts of six, focusing on sustainable mobility innovation. It spans 12 weeks, with the next cohort's application deadline set for May 26, 2024, and commencing on August 1st, 2024, concluding on October 25th, 2024. Startups in electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and smart transportation benefit from mentorship, investor connections, workspace, potential funding, educational workshops, and networking events. The accelerator program is a gateway for startups to thrive in the sustainable mobility sector, offering a blend of strategic guidance, resources, and networking opportunities.

Co:Lab's Website
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26) GuideWell Innovation

GuideWell Innovation - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Florida

Situated in Lake Nona's Medical City, GuideWell Innovation is a prominent player in healthcare innovation, fostering entrepreneurship to drive the creation of accessible and affordable healthcare solutions. With a focus on health technology and medical devices, the institution acts as a hub for reimagining the future of health. Key programs include the eight-week GuideWell Scale-Up Accelerator, catering to health tech and medical device firms with women founders in the southeastern U.S., and the ten-week GuideWell Emerging Health Tech Accelerator, supporting pre-revenue companies in the same space. Participants benefit from a mentor network, innovative programs, and dedicated spaces like the 250-seat Innovation Theatre and Co-Working Space, all aimed at accelerating idea generation and collaboration. While specific metrics like the number of start-ups and investors are undisclosed, GuideWell Innovation remains a key influencer in the Health Care and Professional Services sectors.

GuideWell Innovation's Website
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27) Venture Hive

Venture Hive - accelerating exceptional start-ups in Florida

Venture Hive is an accelerator program located in Miami. It educates and cultivates entrepreneurs through a 12-week program, offering efficient turnkey models to build entrepreneurial ecosystems. The program provides support, network access, and resources to participants. They engage with multiple start-ups and connects entrepreneurs with potential investors. Their focus on education and support suggests a goal of helping start-ups secure funding. Venture Hive supports start-ups across various industries. Additional benefits include a structured curriculum, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources. Running for over six years, the program emphasizes turning ideas into minimum viable products through the 'Idea to MVP' track, contributing to its established presence and experience in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Venture Hive's Website
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28) Travel Startups Incubator

Travel Startups Incubator - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

Travel Startups Incubator is a renowned accelerator program that focuses on travel technology, hospitality, and tourism startups. The intensive four-week program, led by Matt Zito and Nicole Zito, offers invaluable coaching, industry insights, and resources to help CEOs, founders, and teams develop a marketable business within the travel industry. With a proven track record, the organization has supported over 50 startups, leading to significant funding rounds and the collective hiring of hundreds of employees by the associated startups. The program boasts a global reach, attracting participants from various countries worldwide. Participants benefit from 1:1 executive coaching sessions with Matt Zito, gaining personalized advice and strategic guidance. Moreover, the program's Capital Raise service facilitates introductions to a vast network of global investors for six months post-acceleration. By sharing insider secrets and leveraging industry expertise, the accelerator equips participants with a competitive edge in the travel industry. For travel tech enthusiasts seeking to propel their startups to new heights, the program presents an exceptional opportunity to thrive within the travel and tourism sector.

Travel Startups Incubator's Website
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29) The BRIC

The BRIC - promoting the start-ups of tomorrow

The Boca Raton Innovation Center is a leading tech startup accelerator located in Boca Raton, Florida. Focused on fostering innovation, it provides an accelerator program that includes a substantial funding opportunity of $100,000 for participating startups. The program is designed to support the development of scalable software solutions and encompasses various technology-related fields, such as Artificial Intelligence, general tech, mobile applications, and SaaS (Software as a Service). Founders John Kemp and Ryan Teixeira lead the initiative, which emphasizes business instruction, mentorship, and a fully tech-oriented environment to nurture budding entrepreneurs. Committed to empowering new tech ventures, the organization offers comprehensive resources and guidance.

The BRIC's Website
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30) The Culinary Accelerator

The Culinary Accelerator - connecting start-up founders with success

The Florida Culinary Accelerator @ Immokalee is a premier culinary business accelerator situated in Collier County, Florida, designed to support startups in the food tech industry. It features a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, available to members who benefit from flexible usage plans tailored to their culinary needs. Beyond access to professional-grade facilities, this institution provides crucial business assistance and the opportunity for venture funding, empowering members to transform their culinary ideas into thriving businesses. Participants must undergo a review committee approval process and are required to obtain necessary permits and certifications, including Serv Safe Certification, a Food Handler Permit, and General Liability Insurance, amongst others. This comprehensive support system fosters culinary innovation and aims to bolster the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Collier County. The commitment to helping culinary entrepreneurs succeed underscores its role as a vital resource in the food and beverage industry.

The Culinary Accelerator's Website
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31) Naples Accelerator

Naples Accelerator - Florida's true entrepreneurial hub

Naples Accelerator, established in 2014 in Collier County, Florida, aims to accelerate startup growth for entrepreneurs in Southwest Florida. Partnering with Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), it provides training and mentorship to help first-stage entrepreneurs advance their ventures. Entrepreneurs benefit from FGCU's expertise in entrepreneurship, engineering, health, and sciences. Collaborating with FGCU's faculty, the accelerator offers access to valuable resources for aspiring businesses to succeed and create innovative jobs in Collier County. The program focuses on propelling business growth and likely supports a wide range of industries. With its recent closure as of September 30, 2021, it played a vital role in connecting entrepreneurs to local resources and helping foreign companies soft-land and expand to Naples, Florida, and beyond, contributing to the local economy's expansion. Industries supported by the accelerator include 'Sector Agnostic.'

Naples Accelerator's Website
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32) Radical Partners

Radical Partners - enabling start-ups to fundraise successfully

Radical Partners is a Miami-based social impact accelerator dedicated to supporting leaders and ventures addressing critical local issues. The organization identifies and nurtures leaders who are building impactful projects and movements, offering vital support and resources to scale their influence. Over the past six years, they have successfully assisted nearly 100 social impact startups that tackle pressing matters, including housing affordability, poverty alleviation, education equity, arts and culture, and climate change. The accelerator emphasizes leadership development through tailored programs and services, aiming to foster community engagement by mobilizing tens of thousands of locals to collectively tackle important challenges. Believing in co-creating innovative solutions, the institution builds coalitions by uniting grassroots, nonprofit, business, government, and philanthropic leaders to establish shared priorities. By focusing on collaboration and practical action, it cultivates a supportive ecosystem that enhances community resilience and drives positive change across Miami. Through its multifaceted approach, the organization exemplifies a commitment to social justice and community development across various sectors, achieving a notable impact beyond conventional metrics.

Radical Partners's Website
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33) FintechAccel

FintechAccel - a prominent start-up growth supporter in Florida

FintechAccel is a unique accelerator and innovation outpost located in Columbus, Ohio, United States. Specializing in the fintech industry, it collaborates with fintech companies across various sectors within the financial services industry. With a focus on attracting global fintech startups, the organization has 904 investors supporting its ecosystem. While the specific program duration and the number of funded start-ups are not explicitly provided, FintechAccel has successfully attracted start-ups in the fintech domain. Acting as both an innovation hub and accelerator, it provides a platform for fintech startups to thrive. Notable founders or start-ups associated with this accelerator are not mentioned, and additional details about perks or benefits offered by FintechAccel are not available.

FintechAccel's Website
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Top Reasons Start-ups Participate In Accelerators

Peer learning

There’s not enough time in the world to learn from one’s own mistakes. Peer learning helps.

Rapid learning curve

There’s a reason accelerators are called accelerators. It’s a fast ride.

Holistic growth

Marketing, Sales, Tech, Ops, HR, Finance, Admin...... you can’t go wrong in any one field.

Investor connect

Accelerators give an opening to many locked doors.

Why an accelerator might not be right for you

It's usually helpful to consider potential pitfalls. Some common misconceptions

What's the real value of your equity

There's a math behind how accelerators decide whether your start-up is worth investing. Did you run the calculation for diluting your equity?

Correlation isn't causation

What worked for Airbnb might not work for you. If the accelerator playbook was 100% full-proof, they would have been running a start-up and not an accelerator. After all, everyone's chasing a unicorn.

It isn't about the exits

Accelerators and investors care much more about getting a return rather than building a business. However that's not a luxury founders can afford.

FAQs About Start-up Accelerators

Author Bio

Michael Li

Michael Li

For the last 10+ years Michael has helped start-ups of all scales and sizes succeed. A 2X entrepreneur, he is now working on Aerial to help founders avoid costly mistakes. He regularly writes for publications like the Wall Street Journal, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, Harvard Business Review and others.

Last updated date 6/3/2024

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Accelerators and Incubators in florida

Looking for the best accelerators in Florida? Here are some top reasons to choose an accelerator in the Sunshine State. Accelerators provide startups with valuable resources, such as mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities, that can help them grow and succeed. The start-up culture in Florida is thriving, with a supportive community of entrepreneurs and investors who are dedicated to helping new businesses thrive. When choosing the right accelerator, consider factors such as the program's focus areas, the experience of the mentors and advisors, and the success stories of previous graduates. Some notable start-ups from Florida that have achieved great success include Magic Leap, a cutting-edge tech company focused on augmented reality, Chewy, a leading online retailer for pet supplies, and The Zebra, an innovative platform for comparing car insurance rates. With so many opportunities for growth and innovation, Florida accelerators are a great option for startups looking to take their business to the next level.

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