How Incubators and Accelerators Foster Startup Internationalization

In an increasingly globalized market, startups, as new ventures, face significant challenges in their internationalization process, including regulatory obstacles, cultural differences and the need to establish awareness in foreign markets. This study explores the role of accelerators and incubators in supporting startups’ international expansion. Through a qualitative approach based on 11 semi-structured interviews with professionals, our findings highlight that incubators and accelerators provide startups with tailored programs for internationalization, mentorship and key resources. Specifically, accelerators facilitate rapid market entry by offering networking opportunities, investor access and training, while incubators provide long-term support to overcome cultural and regulatory barriers and develop the business plan effectively to achieve the growth stage. This study contributes to the literature by offering a novel perspective on how accelerators and incubators facilitate the internationalization process of startups, particularly offering tangible and intangible resources and fostering the development of business relationships. Finally, the findings of this research offer managerial implications for professionals and policymakers operating in the startup’s ecosystem.