New data shows most startup accelerators are a waste of time

This paper introduces a new way to measure how much startup accelerators actually help companies. It turns out most accelerators do not improve startup outcomes, and some even make things worse. This means founders and investors now have a tool to identify the few programs that genuinely boost a startup's chances of success.

For years, founders chose accelerators based on reputation or gut feeling, and investors often assumed an accelerator badge meant something. This paper provides hard data showing that most of these programs are not worth the time or equity. It means founders can now make more informed decisions, potentially saving years of effort and valuable company ownership.