20 SaaS Accelerators to Get You 3x Early Stage Funding in 2024

So you've got a brilliant idea for a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) product. It's going to reform the way businesses operate, you just know it! But between the initial spark and becoming the next big thing, there's a whole lot of runway.  

This is where SaaS accelerators come in. They provide the resources, mentorship, and connections to propel your idea from concept to a full-fledged, market-ready product. Intrigued? Well, we're just getting started!

Take a look at our unique list of the 20 best accelerators for SaaS startups. It includes information like how much money each accelerator gives out and links to their application pages.

Start right away to give your startup story the attention it needs! 

Top 20 SaaS Accelerators That Can Benefit Your SaaS in 2024 

If you want to start a company in the SaaS field, you must keep an eye on the most popular SaaS accelerators worldwide, since this ecosystem is always growing.

That’s why, we've compiled a list of accelerators known as the best SaaS programs to help you save time. So, let's look at these best startup accelerators you can consider joining in 2024.

1. AngelPad

Key Information

• Location: San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, USA
• Started in: 2010
• Founders: Thomas Korte and Carine Magescas
• Program Length: 3 months
• Cohort Sizes: 15 teams
• Funding: $120,000 investment plus access to over $300,000 in cloud credits
• Number of Investments: 183
• Number of Exits: 40

Overview

If you're on the verge of something big with your startup and seeking a seed-stage accelerator, AngelPad could be the right place for you.

AngelPad offers a three-month intense program. Throughout each session, they handpick approximately 15 teams from a competitive pool, guaranteeing that you are among other high-potential entrepreneurs.

What makes this program unique is that the founders of AngelPad get involved in developing a company with you. They’re your first investors, but they hope to be more by building a community that will support you beyond the program's lifetime.

With alumni like Postmates and Pipedrive, being part of AngelPad can be your ticket to the big leagues.

2. Alchemist Accelerator

Key Information

• Location: San Francisco, California, USA; Munich, Germany
• Started in: 2012
• Founders: Haamid Ali and Ravi Belani
• Program Length: 6 months
• Cohort Sizes: Up to 25 teams
• Equity: 5%
• Funding: $3.9 B
• Number of Investments: Over 650
• Number of Exits: 56
• Link for Registration: https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/apply?utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.alchemistaccelerator.com%2F

Overview

Targeting large businesses? Look no further than Alchemist Accelerator. Known for its expertise in B2B startups, Alchemist provides guidance specifically designed to help companies selling to other businesses thrive.

Alchemist's six-month program offers organized instruction for traction and fundraising designed specifically for enterprise ventures. 

It provides access to successful CEOs and industry experts having graduated from over 300 companies and secured $1.2 billion in post-Demo Day funding. 

Plus, notable investments from Accel and Andreessen Horowitz add to its reputation. The program ends with a Demo Day proposal before a worldwide investment audience.

3. L-Spark Accelerator

Key Information

• Location: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Started in: 2014
• Program Length: 6 months
• Founder: Leo Max
• Funding: More than $120M
• Equity: 5%
• Number of Investments: 51
• Number of Exits: 7
• Link for Registration: https://www.l-spark.com/apply/saas-accelerator

Overview

If you're an entrepreneur with a vision for a scalable business SaaS product, L-SPARK in Ottawa could be the starting point you need.

Established in 2014, this SaaS accelerator has built a reputation for guiding SaaS businesses to achieve lofty goals. 

By enrolling, you'll gain mentorship from seasoned industry professionals. They’ll join your team one day per week and weekly operations meetings focused on strategic goals.

To your surprise, they've helped over 100 firms, resulting in over $147 million in follow-on funding and seven exits. Plus, they provide coaching, a network, and connections that can make your corporate SaaS solution more successful.

Moreover, L-SPARK provides office space and utilities throughout the programme, making the accelerator experience more realistic. Their global investors and service suppliers network can help you create relationships and collaborations to scale your firm.

4. MuckerLab

Key Information

• Location: Los Angeles, USA
• Started in: 2011
• Founders: Erik Rannala and William Hsu
• Program Length: Variable, typically around 12 months, can range from 3 to 24 months
• Cohort Sizes: 20 to 25 companies per year
• Funding: $100,000 to $175,000 for
• Equity: 10% to 15% 
• Number of Exits: 1

Overview

You can be one of just 20 to 25 firms that receive full attention every year at  MuckerLab.

It can be your personalized trip that may last anywhere from a few months to two years. However, it depends on what your SaaS firm needs to meet crucial business milestones.

You won't be forced through the conventional boot camps or demo days; instead, you'll be immersed in focused company development from the ground up.

MuckerLab offers investments ranging from $100,000 to $175,000 for a 10% to 15% equity share. 

This accelerator will function as a part of your founding team, and give you tactical assistance and access to Silicon Valley resources without requiring intimate knowledge.

5. RiverCityLabs

Key Information

• Location: Brisbane, QLD, Australia 
• Started in: 2012
• Founders: Steve Baxter
• Program Length: 6 weeks
• Cohort Sizes: 10 teams of companies
• Funding: $60,000
• Link for Registration: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Ca_clr2qBUeByeo0Z7Wj30RTNrW2oz1Gh4j7dKPYvndUN1ZYU0hTU0RPU1JZRUFaODBSMjVXNUpESiQlQCN0PWcu

Overview

River City Labs is Australia's vital hub for tech innovators and passionate entrepreneurs.

It celebrates your unique experience as a creator, driving innovation with resources that empower and connect you globally.

As a member of the Australian Computer Society, River City Labs contributes to the tech ecosystem through programs, events, and community involvement. These demonstrate their dedication to advancing Australian technology innovation.

6. Forum Ventures

Key Information

• Location: New York, San Francisco, Toronto
• Started in: 2012
• Founders: Michael Cardamone, Nick Mehta, Rowan Trollope, Karen (Appleton) Page
• Funding: $1M to $4M
• Program Length: 4 months
• Number of Investments: 450
• Equity: 7.5% 
• Number of Exits: 30

Overview

If you are just beginning your B2B SaaS journey, you can check out Forum Ventures. It’s one of the top accelerators in the world that understands the early-stage grind.

They provide $100,000 in pre-seed investment, hands-on support from experienced SaaS specialists, and a robust mentor network. Besides, their year-round program develops your product-market fit, go-to-market strategy, and financing.

Forum Ventures has a track record of assisting founders with significant follow-on funding, making it an ideal platform for ambitious entrepreneurs like yourself.

7. Innovation Works

Key Information

• Location: Pittsburgh, PA, USA
• Started in: 1999
• Founders: Lisa Greenleaf
• Program Length: Customized to startup needs
• Number of Investments: 667
• Number of Exits: 42
• Funding: $117M invested in companies since inception

Overview

Innovation Works is important for people who want to start their tech businesses. This accelerator's only goal is to help startups get to the next level of growth. 

In fact, they’re known as one of the best early-stage investors in Pennsylvania because they invest in companies at all stages, from pre-seed to venture. They have put over $117 million into over 667 companies.

You'll be able to use an extensive network, get personalized learning materials, and get help with future funding rounds if you join this accelerator. 

Their all-around method will ensure that your business is in line with the market, which will help it grow at every turn.

8. TinySeed (Remote)

Key Information

• Location: Minneapolis, USA
• Founders: Rob Walling and Einar Vollset
• Program Length: 52 weeks
• Cohort Sizes: Typically 10-15 companies
• Funding: $120,000 to $220,000 for 
• Equity: 10% to 12% 
• Number of Exits: 3
• Link for Registration: https://apply.tinyseed.com/?utm_source=tshero

Overview

TinySeed has a one-of-a-kind chance just for you if you're a SaaS entrepreneur looking for an entire year-long accelerator experience. 

This best SaaS accelerator does more than just give you money! It also pairs you with a personal coach and puts you in touch with a lively community. 

The way this accelerator works is meant to help startups that are self-funded so you can focus on making growth last. 

When you choose TinySeed, you're becoming part of a relationship with helpful advice and a giant network you'll need to succeed in the challenging SaaS field.

9. Y Combinator

Key Information

• Location: Mountain View, CA, USA
• Started in: 2005
• Founders: Paul Graham, Jessica Livingston, Trevor Blackwell, Robert Morris
• Program Length: 3 months
• Cohort Sizes: 10 to 15 companies
• Funding: $125,000
• Equity: 7%
• Number of Investments: Over 5400
• Number of Exits: 494
• Link for Registration: https://www.ycombinator.com/apply

Overview

If you’re the founder of a startup that wants to grow quickly and be ready for funding, Y Combinator could be the key to your success. 

Each phase in their three-month, intensive program will help you reach your goals. Demo Day is the last day of this accelerator program, on which you'll pitch your idea to a small group of carefully chosen donors. 

YC is more than just a way to get money; it's also about getting a personal mentor and connecting you with an extensive network, including a supportive alumni group. 

Overall, Y Combinator is the best way to make a big difference for founders like you who want to change fields.

10. Gener8tor

Key Information

• Location: Madison, WI, USA
• Started in: 2012
• Founders: Dan Armbrust, Joe Kirgues, Jon Eckhardt, Troy Vosseller
• Program Length: 12 weeks
• Cohort Sizes: 5 to 6 companies
• Funding: $2B
• Number of Investments: 285
• Number of Exits: 8
• Link for Registration: https://www.gener8tor.com/apply

Overview

Gener8tor is one of the top-notch expert accelerators that helps you become a business. It’s known across the country for its excellence. 

Their focused team personally helps and invests in startups with much room to grow. It creates a lively community of forward-thinking business owners like you. 

Through Gener8tor's accelerator, you can get advice from a mentor and make connections with big companies. That way you get help implementing your new business ideas. 

For those who want to make significant changes in your SaaS business, Gener8tor's pilot program could be just what you need.

11. BoomTown Accelerators

Key Information

• Location: Boulder, CO
• Started In: 2013
• Founder: Toby Krout, Jason Searfoss, Erin Stadler, Jose Vieitez, and Jack Donenfeld
• Program Length: 12 weeks
• Funding: Over $1.2 billion
• Number of Investments: Over 200
• Number of Exits: 8

Overview

If you're a SaaS company ready to make things happen, Boomtown Accelerators wants to hear from you. It has helped over 200 startups grow, and an impressive 94% of them are already making money. 

Boomtown's mix of mentorship, tools, and a supportive ecosystem gives you a unique edge over the competition, whether you're coming up with new ideas or growing your business.

Plus, it helps startups like yours deal with the challenges of growth, improving business models, and getting funding in a hands-on way. You’re pushed to think outside the box here, which could lead to breakthroughs long after the program ends.

12. 500 Global (Previously Known as 500 Startups)

Key Information

• Location: San Francisco
• Started in: 2010
• Founders: Dave McClure, Christine Tsai
• Funding: $150,000 
• Equity: 6% 
• Accelerator Duration: 16 weeks
• Number of Investments: 3061
• Number of Exits: 359
• Funding: $67B

Overview

500 Startups, which is now called 500 Global, is one of the best SaaS incubators you can work with to help your startup succeed. 

They’re changing how innovation is done worldwide with a portfolio of over 2,800 startups and $2.4 billion in assets under control. 

Their method is truly global; they have employees and teams in more than 30 countries. It’s more than just a place to get money; it's also your way to a valuable network and advice from experts in your field. 

If you're ready to take your startup to the world stage, 500 Global is the best place to meet, grow, and succeed.

13. Heavybit

Key Information

• Location: San Francisco, California
• Started in: 2013
• Founders: James Lindenbaum
• Program Length: 9 months
• Funding: $500k (Pre-seed) to and $5M (Series)
• Number of Investments: Over 80
• Number of Exits: 9

Overview

Heavybit is one of the best tech incubators to consider if you want to be successful as a developer-first company. And it’s especially if you're going into DevSecOps, JAMstack, or the like. 

This accelerator also connects you with a unique community of over 600 subject experts and other technical founders. 

If you want to turn your ideas and goods into platforms and movements in the infrastructure and developer tools fields, Heavybit is one the first accelerators you need to join.

14. High Alpha

Key Information

• Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
• Started in: 2015
• Founders: Scott Dorsey, Eric Tobias, Mike Fitzgerald, Kristian Andersen
• Program Length:100-day sprint for idea to launch
• Number of Investments: Over 95
• Funding: $10M
• Number of Exits: 17

Overview

With High Alpha, you can turn your B2B SaaS ideas into businesses that rule the market. Along with giving startups money, they work closely and offer design, development, and "go-to-market" strategies through a special sprint method. 

This accelerator is perfect for SaaS founders who want to quickly turn an idea into a business by using a network and full support. 

No matter what stage your SaaS business is in, High Alpha can help. They have tools to assist you, from brainstorming ideas to growing your existing business.

15. PIE

Key Information

• Location: Portland, Oregon
• Started in: 2009
• Founders: Rick Turoczy
• Funding: No direct funding; rather provides resources and mentorship
• Equity: No equity taken; free

Overview

PIE is an important part of Portland's thriving business scene. They can help you with your journey by focusing on software, hardware, and consumer goods. 

The unique way that PIE works is that everyone can join for free and without having to pay anything. Plus, they offer great tools, mentorship, and community support to help you grow and come up with new ideas. 

They have three different types of programs —

• PIE: This program is for software-based (including SaaS) startups that are in the pre-funding and pre-revenue stages. To be eligible, members must have a prototype that works.
• PIE Shop: Made for hardware startups that are still looking for funds or haven't started making money yet.

PIE Consumer: This program is designed to help companies that make market goods like food, drinks, clothes, and items for pets. It focuses on businesses that are growing and have already made some money.

16. TechStars

Key Information

• Location: Has branches in Boulder, Seattle, Chicago, Los Angeles, Alabama, NYC, Atlanta
• Started in: 2006
• Founders: David Cohen, Brad Feld, David Brown, Jared Polis
• Program Length: 3 months (12-14 weeks)
• Number of Investments: Over 4,000 startups at early-stage
• Cohort Sizes: Varies across programs
• Funding: Up to $120,000 
• Equity: 6% 

Overview

Techstars is known for having a global network, and they can help your startup succeed in a wide range of fields, from SaaS to FinTech and more. 

This accelerator has given money to over 4,000 startups, including big names like Uber and DigitalOcean, with the goal of helping them grow and learn. 

It is a great place to get access to a lot of tools, industry connections, and expert advice that will help you take your new business ideas to the next level.

17. Founder Institute

Key Information

• Location: Palo Alto, California
• Started in: 2009
• Founders: Adeo Ressi, Jonathan Greechan
• Program Length: 4 months
• Funding: Provides resources and network, not direct funding
• Number of Investments: Over 70
• Equity: .25% to 1%
• Link for Registration: https://fi.co/join

Overview

As the world's biggest pre-seed startup accelerator, the Founder Institute is the place to go if you are an early-stage SaaS startup that wants to become a successful business. 

They have a strong presence in more than 200 places around the world and use a large network of mentors and experts to help you through their structured 4-month program. 

Their main goal is to help you get your business off the ground by giving you the right tools, individual guidance, and access to a global community.

18. Startup Bootcamp

Key Information

• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Started in: 2010
• Founders: Alex Farcet, Carsten Kolbek, Patrick de Zeeuw, Ruud Hendriks
• Program Length: 12 weeks
• Funding: €15k for living expenses + €500k in partner deals
• Number of Exits: 40
• Number of Investments: 549

Overview

Startup Bootcamp’s industry-specific programs are meant to help your startup grow. They can help you grow rapidly by giving you specific guidance, funding options, and access to a huge network of partners. 

Their goal is to help almost 1,500 startups around the world, so you can be sure that you'll make a big difference as a founder. 

This accelerator program is kind of a trip that will change your life, where innovation meets execution and is designed to take your startup to the next level.

19. Village Capital

Key Information

• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Started in: 2009
• Founders: Bob Pattillo and Ross Baird
• Program Length: 1 to 12 days
• Cohort Sizes: 10-12 companies per program
• Funding: Offers grant funding or seed capital to top-ranked startups by peers
• Number of Investments: 354
• Number of Exits: 18
• Link for Registration: https://vilcap.com/programs/greentech-europe-2024

Overview

Village Capital has obtained a place in our list because of the unique way they help new businesses succeed. They're all about using new ideas to face world problems head-on.

Wondering how they do it? First, they figure out which problems are the most important. Then, they look for startups that look like they might be able to help. 

Their acceleration programs are made to get startups ready for funding. And that’s making waves around the world in fields like fintech, education, health, and sustainability.

That's how Village Capital works: they give business owners like you the tools they need to change the world, one startup at a time.

20. Mass Challenge

Key Information

• Location: Boston, MA
• Started in: 2009
• Founders: John Harthorne, Akhil Nigam
• Program Length: 4 months
• Funding: Compete for cash prizes
• Equity: Free
• Number of Exits: 185
• Number of Investments: Over 3000

Overview

One thing that makes MassChallenge unique is that it cares about you and the success of your company. They don't take stock; instead, they have a competitive, no-equity accelerator program for startups in various fields. 

This accelerator program can help you scale your solutions by providing advice, tools, and a worldwide network. Their goal is to have the most effect possible without costing you anything upfront as an entrepreneur. 

At the end of this program, there is a demo day where you can show possible investors what services or products you offer.

What are Startup Accelerators and Incubators?

SaaS accelerators are programs that help SaaS startups grow quickly. They give them money, mentorship, networking opportunities, and other tools that will help them grow and get into more markets faster.

SaaS incubators, in contrast, help early-stage SaaS startups by giving them advice, a place to work, money, and other tools. They help them develop new ideas and improve their products. 

Their goal is to build a strong base for future success and growth.

What Value Do Accelerators and Incubators Add to SaaS Startups?

Let's face it: creating a successful SaaS startup is not easy. You require a different combination of key elements, such as funding, guidance, and access to the appropriate network. 

Accelerators and incubators can serve as starting points for your enterprise and later help it reach new heights.

But what precisely do these programs offer SaaS startups? 

Let’s find out the advantages top startup accelerators and incubators provide to SaaS startups —

• Get the money you need to get your development and activities off the ground. Several programs offer start-up money in exchange for shares of the business.
• Take advantage of the knowledge of professional business owners and stars in your field. Get essential ideas and strategic advice.
• Contact many investors, possible customers, and other SaaS companies.
• Find the tools to understand the ins and outs of running a business, such as legal and financial help and marketing and sales experience.
• Receive feedback and advice on how well your product fits the market to ensure you make something people want.
• Get together with a group of professionals who can help you and inspire you. These people will understand your journey. You can all learn from each other and enjoy progress together.
• Take advantage of a planned and thorough program that will help you move forward more quickly and save time and money.
• Have the chance to pitch your SaaS masterpiece to a group of possible sponsors and business partners at the last event of the program. 

With the proper accelerator program or incubator, you'll have the tools, connections, and guidance to realize your goals and work accordingly.

Differences between SaaS Accelerators and Incubators

If you're managing a new SaaS company, selecting between an accelerator and an incubator is critical to your startup's success. 

While both attempt to move your business ahead, they do it in distinct ways, meeting different demands at different stages of your SaaS company's life cycle. 

Here's an easy-to-understand comparison to help you make a decision.

Understanding these distinctions is critical to determining the best path for your SaaS company. 

While a startup incubator can help you build and mature your idea into a viable product, an accelerator will quickly attach a rocket to your existing product to weapon growth and valuation.

How to Find the Right B2B SaaS Accelerator or Incubator for Your SaaS Startup

Choosing the right accelerator or incubator for your SaaS company requires a strategic approach. 

Here's how you can simplify your search to find the right one —

Define Your Objectives

Find out what you hope to achieve through the accelerator or incubator program. Are you searching for mentorship, networking, funding, or a combination of the above? 

Your objectives will drastically limit your possibilities.

Research Success Metrics

Check the track record of possible programs. Look for success stories and case studies from B2B SaaS startups who have already graduated from the accelerator or incubator program. 

Pay particular attention to their post-completion growth data.

Industry Specialization

Prefer programs focusing on B2B SaaS or have an extensive portfolio of successful SaaS startups. They will have industry knowledge and connections that can benefit your SaaS firm.

Program Structure and Resources

Assess the structure of the acceleration programs. Does it align with your current stage and needs? Consider whether they offer the resources, such as industry-specific mentorship, that can help you scale.

Network Quality

An accelerator or incubator's value is primarily determined by the quality of its network. Assess the program's relationships with possible clients, partners, and investors in your niche.

Financial Considerations

Understand the financial implications, including the equity obtained and the supplied funding. Ensure that the conditions are favorable and don't reduce your share in the company.

Location and Commitment

Consider the geographic location and whether the program involves relocation or allows remote participation. Also, check out the required time commitment and make sure it aligns with your availability.

Alumni Feedback

Seek frank feedback from program alumni. Their experiences might provide a fair estimate of the program's impact on your startup.

Application Process

Prepare adequately for the application procedure, which may be competitive. Customize your application to highlight how your SaaS fits the program's focus and strengths.

Post-Program Support

Finally, assess the scope of post-program support. The finest accelerators and top incubators provide value and assistance long after completing the program. By meticulously assessing these characteristics, you can select the best accelerator or incubator for your B2B SaaS firm. 

Remember that the correct fit can take your business to new heights, so choose thoughtfully.

Closing Thoughts

With the right tools, SaaS accelerators give SaaS companies the power to succeed. By joining these programs, your SaaS business can improve the way you do business and get the chance to work with top investors and business leaders.

However, doing your research before joining a business accelerator or incubator is very important. Our list covers the essentials you need to get started. So, use this information to get your products and services out to your customers quickly!

End-to-end support from these accelerators can increase your SaaS business's credibility, leading to more customers. So, think about the SaaS accelerators and companies this article discusses to help your SaaS startup succeed in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the disadvantage of an accelerator program?

Accelerator programs provide significant benefits to SaaS firms, but they can have severe drawbacks as well, such as:

• Intense Environment: A fast-paced program with tight deadlines and high expectations can potentially lead you to stress.
• One-size-fits-all Approach: The program structure might not fit your needs or development stage perfectly.
• Competitive Atmosphere: Surrounding yourself with other ambitious startups can motivate you to a great extent but also lead to unhealthy competition.
• Short Duration: Program duration might be insufficient for you to achieve significant traction, which might leave you unprepared for the next stage.
• Investment Focus: Program's primary goal might be attracting investors, which can potentially overshadow your long-term business vision.
• Hidden Costs: Even "free" programs might involve hidden costs like living expenses or relocation.
• Cultural Mismatch: Program culture and values might not align with your team, later leading to further difficulties.

2. How do accelerator programs make money?

Accelerator programs for startups have several options to earn money, similar to having different pockets to collect coins. 

Let’s learn how they make money:

• Equity Pocket: Accelerators commonly invest in companies and obtain a share of the revenues upon successful growth and sale, with more if the startup grows.
• Sponsorships Pocket: Companies compensate accelerators for their participation by placing branding on the program to make money.
• Program Fees Pocket:  Several programs charge startups to participate, similar to an event entrance fee - this is not a uniform practice, but most accelerators use it nowadays.
• Services Pocket: Accelerators provide supplementary services to entrepreneurs for a cost, such as website development or marketing help to generate additional money.

3. Do accelerators pay founders?

Accelerators rarely compensate founders directly in cash or salary. 

Instead, they offer support and resources to help founders expand their businesses, including cash, coaching, network access, workspace, and other benefits. 

However, in exchange for this assistance, accelerators typically take shares in the companies, making them partly company owners. This equity interest is frequently a significant portion of the accelerator's investment in the startup's development.

4. How many accelerators are there in the US?

The United States has 2.71K accelerators and incubators, with a combined portfolio of 26.4K enterprises.

5. Are accelerator programs free?

Accelerator programs have varying cost structures. 

Some accelerator programs are free to entrepreneurs, which means there is no initial charge or expense connected with participation.

However, many accelerator programs ask SaaS firms to give up equity in exchange for the assistance and resources given.

Some accelerator programs may charge a participation fee or provide optional paid services to entrepreneurs.