Accelerators, co-ops, co-working, executive suites, incubators…what’s the difference?

Do you know the difference between an accelerator, a co-op, a co-working, an executive suite, and an incubator? It’s okay. Not many people can easily explain each so we’ve defined them below.

A business accelerator, also known as a startup accelerator, is typically a cohort-based program for new businesses. Being a part of an accelerator is an involved process that includes connections, educational components, mentorship, seed investment, and sometimes a pitch or demo day. Accelerators are pretty popular with technology and AI companies.

An autonomous organization or association that unites for one common goal or purpose is a cooperative or co-op. This cause may be cultural, economic, or social, and include multiple stakeholders as well as other co-ops.

Co-working is a membership-based shared workspace that is an ideal solution for the isolation that many small businesses, independent workers, and freelancers experience working from home. It’s a flexible work environment that is self-directed and collaborative. Most people are attracted to the possible synergies and connections.

Many top managers use executive suites, which are a collection of offices or suites for executives, of course.

An incubator, or business incubator, is an organization that helps startups. This company provides office space, training, and tools to assist in a new business’ development. Incubators typically fall into four categories: academic institutions, for-profit property development, non-profit development corporations, and venture capital firms.