Test your startup: Are you ready to join an accelerator program?

The Tehnopol Startup Incubator’s accelerator is accepting applications until September 6th. But how can you be sure if your startup is ready to join an accelerator program? We’ve created a little guide to help you decide.

1) You have a strong and committed team. Your team consists of people with diverse skills who are dedicated to developing the startup. Keep in mind that both accelerators and investors prefer startups with at least two members.

2) You have identified demand for your product or service. Your product or service should solve a real problem. You have received positive feedback from early users, meaning your value proposition has been validated and is attractive to potential customers.

3) You have a tangible prototype (MVP) of your product or service that can be tested with real users. A prototype allows you to collect valuable feedback and prove that the idea is viable.

4) You have identified a strong competitive advantage or unique selling proposition that sets your solution apart from others on the market. Accelerators are looking for startups with the potential to significantly improve (or even disrupt) the market.

5) You have a clear growth strategy and vision for how to scale your startup and reach the next stages. This includes a marketing plan, expansion plans, and realistic financial projections.

6) You are open and willing to learn, ready to accept criticism, adjust your strategy, and listen to experienced mentors and investors. Accelerators seek startups whose founders are open to new ideas and continuous development. Sometimes, the initial idea of a startup may change during the accelerator, and the startup may take a completely new direction. Are you ready for that?

If you answered “yes” to these points, we highly recommend submitting your application. The sooner you do, the sooner you can get feedback, as admission interviews are already underway and spots in the accelerator are limited. Click here to learn more about what the Startup accelerator can offer to your startup!