Comparing the 10 best startup incubators in Singapore and around the globe in 2026

Are startup incubators worth it in 2026?

For some entrepreneurs, participating in a startup incubator can be a valuable experience that provides access to resources and support that would be difficult to find elsewhere at an early stage. However, incubators may not be the right choice for every startup. For example, some entrepreneurs may prefer to work independently and have more control over the direction of their business, while others may not have the resources or time to commit to a structured programme. Assess your specific needs, resources, and commitment level before deciding.

10 best startup incubators from Singapore and around the globe in 2026

When choosing a startup incubator, how do you choose the right one? There are dozens of organisations today that specialise in startup incubation, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the plethora of choices.

To help you make an informed, well-rounded decision, we've gathered the top incubators so you can compare and weigh your options. Please note that all funding, equity, and application dates are based on the latest information publicly available from the program's official websites as of January 2026. Founders must verify these terms upon application, as they are subject to change.

5 best startup incubators from around the globe in 2026

1. Y Combinator, U.S.A.

Y Combinator has a track record that many startup incubators envy. Since their establishment in 2005, they have funded 3,000 startups and have a combined valuation of over USD300 billion from their companies.

Some startups that began their journey with Y Combinator that are now globally renowned companies include Airbnb, Dropbox, Stripe, Twitch, and many more. Even Aspire's founders are part of the extensive Y Combinator alumni network.

Although the selection process narrows down between 200 to 240 projects for each cycle, the Y Combinator journey continues beyond the incubator programmes through the YC alumni network.

Application: https://www.ycombinator.com/apply/
Dates: Summer 2026 opens early 2026
Duration: 3 months
Location: San Francisco, USA
Funding: USD 500,000 for 7% equity
Best for: International teams seeking product-market fit

2. 500 Global (formerly 500 Startups), USA

Just like YC, this global venture capitalist has a reputable record helping large-scale companies such as LinkedIn, Google, and PayPal. Established in 2010, 500 Global has funded over 2,400 companies across 75+ countries.

Compared to most incubators, 500 Global is a rapid 4-month programme with substantial seed funding. In exchange for the high capital, the incubator demands 6% equity ownership and a USD 25,000 participation fee.

Whilst these figures may seem hefty, you gain access to the '500 team', experienced investors and seasoned entrepreneurs who are valuable connections in your startup journey. It's like getting into the Harvard of the incubation market.

Application: https://500.co/
Duration: 4 months
Funding: USD 150,000 for 6% equity (USD 25,000 participation fee)
Best for: Distribution-focused startups in commerce, education, marketing, fintech, food tech, SMB/B2B SaaS

3. AngelPad

AngelPad is no stranger to the game. Since 2015, they have been ranked as the Top US Accelerator by MIT's Seed Accelerator Benchmark, proving their well-deserved position in the industry. To add to their extensive track record, their portfolio companies have raised a total of USD1.8 billion to date with 10% of their companies with a valuation of over USD100 million.

Their extensive alumni network of companies including Postmates, Buffer, and Pipedrive.

Application link: https://angelpad.com/

Application dates: Check the website regularly for updates on the 2026 cohorts

Program duration: 3 months

Program location: San Francisco and New York, USA

Funding: USD 120,000 in exchange for 7% equity

Best for: Strong founding teams of early-stage founders, instead of individuals

4. Startupbootcamp

Through industry-focused intensive programmes, Startupbootcamp supports early-stage founders scale their business by utilising their vast global network of more than 2,000 partners, mentors, investors, and alumni.

During the selection process for each program, 10 companies are shortlisted to take part in the 3-month acceleration program. 

Startupbootcamp programs that are open for applications:

Energy and Climate III

Application link: https://www.f6s.com/sbc-energy-climate-3/apply

Application dates: Check Startupbootcamp website for current 2026 programme dates

Program duration: 3 months

Program location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Funding: €25,000 in exchange for 8% equity

Food and Agritech III

Application link: https://www.f6s.com/sbc-food-agritech-3/apply

Application dates: Check Startupbootcamp website for current 2026 programme dates

Program duration: 3 months

Program location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Funding: €25,000 in exchange for 8% equity

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Best for: Various industries including Commerce, Fintech, Media, FoodTech, FashionTech, and more

5. Plug and Play

Plug and Play has been connecting top corporations to promising startups since 2006 through industry-specific programmes. No matter where you are in the world, their programmes will provide you with a deeper look into the world's leading technology hubs.

Each year, Plug and Play runs over 60 accelerator programs across major cities and industries. This includes sectors such as brand and retail, fintech, health, supply chain, energy, smart cities, and everything else in between.

Application link: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/join/

Application dates: Accepts applications on a rolling admissions basis yearly

Program duration: 6 months

Program location: Multiple locations

Funding: Varies by program

Best for: Startups with deep tech experiences and a B2C focus

5 best startup incubators in Singapore in 2026

Singapore has emerged as a leading hub for startup incubation in Southeast Asia, with the ecosystem supporting over 4,500 active startups and producing more than 20 unicorns as of 2026.

1. BLOCK71

BLOCK71 is NUS Enterprise's flagship entrepreneurial hub, known as "the world's most tightly packed entrepreneurial ecosystem". Launched in 2011, BLOCK71 has incubated over 600 startups and contributed nearly 25% of Singapore's startup ecosystem valuation.

The programme offers comprehensive support, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to NUS resources and research facilities. With hubs in the U.S., China, Indonesia, and other locations, BLOCK71 provides startups with a global network for expansion.

Notable alumni include Carousell (online marketplace unicorn) and PatSnap (patent analytics unicorn).

Application: https://block71.co/
Duration: Global Startup Runway (1 year, equity-free); Booster (6 weeks)
Funding: Equity-free
Best for: Tech startups building solutions for smart, sustainable environments, health and wellbeing, Industry 4.0, and Web3 in Singapore

2. Antler

Despite having been in the industry only since 2017, Antler has grown into one of the most established and renowned startup builders in Singapore and around the world. While they mainly operate on an early-stage acceleration model, they function quite similarly to incubators.

Antler invests in budding entrepreneurs by providing them with seed capital to meet funding needs, workshops and programmes to gain valuable business insights, and extensive networks to find a co-founder for their startups.

Application link: https://www.antler.co/apply/singapore

Application dates: Check website for 2026 schedule

Program duration: up to 3 months

Funding: 

• Initial investment of USD 125,000 in exchange for 10% ownership
• If the company successfully raises capital from external institutional investors, it can receive additional funding of up to USD 250,000.

Best for: Startups from emerging sectors, including health tech, fintech, proptech, robotics, and AI and first-time professionals who want to find a co-founder

3. Iterative

Iterative is a Singapore-based incubator focused solely on Southeast Asia. With a deep focus in the region, they aim to build a competitive network and supportive startup ecosystem in the region for early-stage founders. 

While the end goal of their programme is to guide startup founders throughout each stage and connect them to investors in Singapore and San Francisco, founders will be guided through three main stages: pitching, fundraising, and building your community.

Application link: https://iterative.vc/apply

Application dates: Open all year round

Program duration: 3 months

Funding: Between USD 150,000 - USD 500,000 for 10–15% equity

Best for: Early-stage founders gearing towards regional expansion in the Southeast Asia region

4. Techstars

Compared to other firms in the market that launch a single incubator programme a few times a year, Techstars provides multiple mentorship-driven accelerator programs across various sectors. This US-based incubator supports every stage of the startup journey, from early-stage development, funding, acceleration, and beyond.

In 2019, ship management company Eastern Pacific (EPS) partnered with Techstars to launch the world's first global MaritimeTech accelerator programme, focusing on innovations in the maritime industry. This is also the first Singapore-based Techstars program. Entrepreneurs who are interested in making a change in the maritime industry through technology-related regulations to digitalisation are encouraged to apply for the programme.

Funding: Varies depending on the specific programme

Best for: Tech entrepreneurs looking for networking and mentoring opportunities

Techstars programmes that are open for applications:

Techstars Anywhere Accelerator

Application link: https://www.techstars.com/accelerators/anywhere

Application dates: Check Techstars website for 2026 cohort dates

Location: Remote

Northwestern Medicine & Techstars Healthcare Accelerator

Application link: https://www.techstars.com/accelerators/colliers-proptech

Application dates: Check Techstars website for 2026 cohort dates

Location: Chicago, US

5. Startup-O

Startup-O is an award-winning platform for startup assessments, investments and venture scaling networks in Southeast Asia, made for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs. Unlike most incubator programmes, they use a proprietary process that combines decision algorithms with domain experts to identify budding startups.

They offer two programmes: the Fasttrack Programme operates on an accelerator model, funding growth-stage startups with full-time founders looking to expand their businesses and global networks. The Edge Programme provides resources to scale, including cross-border expansion support, connections with over 250 corporates, access to domain experts, GTM strategies, and guidance on re-domiciling to Singapore.

Application link: https://goodoldstartup-o.com/contact-us/

Application dates: Not publicly listed

Program duration: Under 10 weeks for the Fasttrack assessment program

Funding: Not publicly listed, and the programmes require no upfront equity dilution.

How to choose the right incubator

With so many options available, the best incubator for your startup depends on your goals, industry, and stage of growth. Use this checklist to guide your decision:

• Stage of your startup: Are you still at the idea stage, or do you already have traction? Some incubators are designed for founders without a team or product yet, while others, like Antler or Iterative, prefer early-stage companies with some progress.
• Industry focus: Look for programmes that specialise in your sector. For example, if you're building in fintech, an incubator with strong financial industry mentors will be more relevant than a generalist one.
• Funding model: Understand the trade-offs between funding and equity. Some incubators invest capital in exchange for 5–15% equity, while others focus on mentorship or connections without taking ownership.
• Mentorship and network: Consider the quality of the mentors and alumni network. A strong network can open doors to investors, partners, and customers.
• Location and ecosystem support: If your startup plans to expand globally, joining an incubator with international reach (like Techstars) may be valuable. For those focusing on Southeast Asia, Singapore-based programmes with local investor ties might be more strategic.
• Programme structure: Check the duration, intensity, and type of support offered (e.g., structured workshops vs. self-paced access to resources). Choose one that matches your team's working style and growth needs.

Startup incubator vs accelerator

Startup incubators and accelerators are two organisations that help startups with different needs. Understanding the difference between startup incubators and accelerators is crucial for choosing the right programme in 2026.

In conclusion, despite their occasional overlap, incubators and accelerators serve distinct purposes. But the next question is, which one suits your needs best?

Tip: You can use this simple rule of thumb: if you're still searching for a co-founder and working on validating an idea (Day 0), you'll benefit more from an incubator. However, if you already have a product in the market, some revenue, and are ready to scale quickly, an accelerator will be a better fit.

How can startup incubators and accelerators help your business in 2026

Incubators and accelerators can be invaluable resources for startups looking to grow quickly and successfully in 2026's competitive landscape.

They provide an environment for startups to receive mentorship and networking opportunities and get access to the resources, tools, and guidance to refine their business model. In addition, many incubators and accelerators offer investment funding to promising startups, giving them the capital to bring their project to life. Finally, incubators and accelerators can help startups to form strategic partnerships with other companies and organisations that can help bring value to their venture.

Overall, incubators and accelerators help startups to flourish. By participating in a programme, startups can benefit from the experience, expertise, and resources of the incubator or accelerator, which can help them overcome the hurdles of starting and scaling a business.

Pros and cons of startup incubators

Ultimately, the decision to use a startup incubator should be based on carefully considering your specific needs and goals. It's important to research different incubators, understand the resources and support they offer, and carefully evaluate the costs and benefits before making a decision.

Scale your startup from day one with Aspire

As your startup grows, managing your finances efficiently becomes critical to sustaining momentum. Based on our experience, many startups face cash flow issues from limited expense visibility, delayed receivables, and high international payment costs.

This is where Aspire's Business Account helps you take control of your finances. With Aspire, you can:

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Whether you're starting out or scaling your business in Singapore, Aspire gives you the visibility, efficiency, and confidence to manage your finances and focus on growth.