Top Aerospace and Defense incubators and accelerators

1. Techstars Space Accelerator

Techstars Space Accelerator, partnered with NASA’s JPL and the U.S. Space Force, supports startups advancing space technology. Run by Techstars and Starburst Aerospace, it offers mentorship and funding in Los Angeles. The program focuses on next-generation space and defense innovations. It connects startups with industry leaders and investors.

2. Starburst Aerospace Accelerator

Starburst Aerospace, founded by François Chopard, runs accelerators like the Flagship Accelerator and Space Accelerator for aerospace, aviation, and defense startups. It connects startups with corporates and investors globally. The program offers tailored mentorship and industry expertise. It emphasizes scalable solutions in space and defense.

3. Starburst BLAST Accelerator

Starburst BLAST Accelerator, a specialized program under Starburst Aerospace, focuses on space and defense startups with cutting-edge technologies. It provides intensive mentorship and corporate matchmaking. The program targets rapid commercialization and scaling. It is tailored for high-potential aerospace ventures.

4. Altair ASAP

Altair ASAP (Aerospace Startup Acceleration Program), run by Altair, supports aerospace startups with advanced simulation and AI tools. It provides access to cutting-edge software and mentorship to accelerate MVP development. The program focuses on data-driven solutions for aerospace innovation. It aims to help startups scale rapidly in the industry.

5. Seraphim Space Accelerator

Seraphim Space Accelerator, part of Seraphim Capital, is a VC-led program for Seed and Pre-Series A SpaceTech startups. It offers intensive mentorship and investor access to scale space innovations. The program connects startups with industry leaders in aerospace and defense. It operates under Seraphim’s mission to advance space technology.

6. Space Founders

Space Founders, Europe’s leading NewSpace accelerator, supports startups in space and defense with mentorship and funding. Run by CNES and Bundeswehr, it offers programs like the Space Founders Accelerator for rapid scaling. The program connects startups with European investors and corporates. It focuses on innovative space technologies.

7. SBIC Noordwijk (ESA BIC)

SBIC Noordwijk, part of ESA’s Business Incubation Centres, supports startups using space technologies through programs like ESA BIC and SBIC Ignition Programme. Organized by the European Space Agency and SBIC, it offers technical support and funding. The program fosters space-related innovation for entrepreneurs. It provides access to ESA’s expertise and facilities.

8. AeroInnovate Accelerator

AeroInnovate Accelerator, hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, supports aerospace and aviation startups with mentorship and investor access. It runs an annual program to foster innovation in the aerospace ecosystem. The program offers workshops and pitching opportunities at EAA AirVenture. It connects startups with industry and investors.

9. SpaceUp Accelerator

Acre, based in the Netherlands, incubates agritech and greentech startups, focusing on sustainable agriculture and food systems. It provides funding, mentorship, and industry connections. The program supports early-stage ventures with innovative solutions. No distinct sub-programs are specified.

10. ESRIC Industry Accelerator

ESRIC Industry Accelerator, part of the European Space Resources Innovation Centre in Luxembourg, supports startups in space resources and related technologies. It offers tailored support, funding, and access to ESRIC’s facilities. The program, managed by ESRIC, fosters innovation in space mining and exploration. It connects startups with industry partners and investors.