Business Incubators

Question 1

Types of incubator

Answer 1

RUN BY GOVERNMENT

• University (enterprise Lab at White City for ICL, comprising of paying costumers, some of which have connections to the university)
• Economic development authority

RUN PRIVATELY

• VC-like (aiming for high exit)
• Feel-good (to promote new companies)

Question 2

Income of incubators comes from:

Answer 2

• Rent (majority)
• Subsidies
• Grants
• Equity in clients

Question 3

Example of incubator in London: Silicon Roundabout

Answer 3

Essentially just a real estate company, wanting money for rent
Charge high rent without helping companies succeed

Question 4

Functions of incubators

Answer 4

Networking activities
Help with presentation skills 
Links to strategic partners
Access to angel investors or venture capital 
Help with business etiquette
Work-Like environment 
Help with regulatory compliance
Intellectual property management

Question 5

Which type of incubator are most incubators in the UK?

Answer 5

Government based

Question 6

What is the difference between accelerator and incubator

Answer 6

An accelerator does not take rent money, but provides necessary mentorship to accelerate the business

Question 7

What is the key message about incubators?

Answer 7

Be aware about what value an incubator can give you, rather than just a place to sit.