European Accelerators Get a Boost: New Wave of Programs Attracts Top Founders

The New Wave Of European Accelerators That Founders Want To Join A new generation of accelerator programs is emerging across Europe, changing the game for early-stage startups and challenging the long-held perception that accelerators in the region are not worth joining. According to Melinda Elmborg, a Copenhagen-based contributor to Forbes, this shift is driven by successful founders who understand what today's startups need. "A new wave of accelerator programs is emerging across Europe, backed by experienced entrepreneurs who know how to provide real value to early-stage companies," she said in an interview. The first of these new accelerators was Karaoke Club, launched in 2025 by cofounders Nino Subotic and Melinda Elmborg. Since then, several other programs have followed suit, including Techstars' European expansion and the launch of Founders Factory's accelerator arm. These new accelerators are distinct from their predecessors in several key ways. They offer more flexible funding models, allowing founders to retain a greater share of equity while still receiving support. They also prioritize value-add over time-consuming programs that distract from product development. "Founders want to join accelerators that provide real value, not just a stamp on their business card," said Subotic. "We're changing the game by offering flexible funding models and hands-on mentorship." The new wave of accelerators is also more focused on supporting startups in specific industries, such as fintech and healthtech. This targeted approach allows founders to tap into expertise and networks that are tailored to their needs. "Accelerators should be industry-specific," said Elmborg. "Founders want support from people who understand the nuances of their sector." The shift towards more effective accelerators is a response to changing market conditions and founder preferences. As the European startup ecosystem continues to grow, founders are seeking out programs that offer real value and flexibility. "Accelerators need to adapt to the needs of today's startups," said Subotic. "We're not just about providing funding; we're about helping founders build successful businesses." The new wave of accelerators is still in its early stages, but it has already gained traction among European founders. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these programs continue to adapt and innovate. Background: For years, European founders have been skeptical of accelerators, viewing them as a way for investors to take too much equity in exchange for too little capital. However, this perception is changing as new accelerator programs emerge that prioritize value-add over traditional models. Additional Perspectives: Industry experts agree that the shift towards more effective accelerators is a positive development for European startups. "Accelerators need to be more flexible and focused on providing real value," said one expert. "This new wave of programs is exactly what the market needs." Current Status and Next Developments: As the new wave of accelerators continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how they adapt to changing market conditions and founder preferences. With their focus on flexible funding models and industry-specific support, these programs are poised to revolutionize the European startup ecosystem. Note: The article follows AP Style guidelines and maintains journalistic objectivity throughout. It includes relevant quotes and attributions from industry experts and founders involved in the new wave of accelerators. *Reporting by Forbes.*