https://www.rocketspace.com/tech-startups/coworking-space-vs.-startup-incubator-vs.-accelerator-which-is-best
START UP FUNDING 2018 BEST Coworking Space vs. Startup Incubator vs. Accelerator: Which is Best?
Incubator, accelerator, and coworking space are three common terms in the startup community. However, if you’ve ever felt you don’t really understand the difference between them, you’re not alone. The difference isn’t always clear. Because of this swirling confusion around definitions, it can be challenging to know which option offers your organization the best chance for success.
Silicon Valley entrepreneurs are known for fast-changing lingo – a Wall Street Journal quiz recently challenged readers to test their knowledge of “the language of startups.” While the definition of “programmer” hasn’t changed significantly, many other terms can experience shifts in meaning over time.
A simple search reveals that many “experts” feel incubators are nothing more than office space in exchange for equity. Some Silicon Valley companies brand themselves as offering incubator, accelerator, and coworking space at the same time. Clearly, this is a case of some real vocabulary confusion.
Interviews with RocketSpace coworkers and members revealed that a surprisingly high percentage thought it was “incubator office space” when they were first researching options. After taking a tour, these founders understood that RocketSpace is a specialized coworking space, or a tech campus for high-growth startups, that offers an ecosystem both speed and direction that helps them scale.
While the terms may be used incorrectly, understanding the correct definitions of startup spaces can enable entrepreneurs to understand what they may need. If it’s time to scale beyond your kitchen counter, you’re in the right place to keep reading.