Top Startup Accelerators and Incubators in Latin America for 2023
Discover the most active startup accelerators and incubators in Latin America, including 500 Startups, Founder Institute, Start-up Chile, and more.
Introduction
Latin America (LATAM) has rapidly emerged as a vibrant hub for startups, driven by innovative ideas and a growing ecosystem of support. For entrepreneurs seeking to accelerate their ventures, joining a top accelerator or incubator can provide invaluable resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities. In this post, we explore the leading startup accelerators and incubators in LATAM for 2023, highlighting their unique offerings and how they can help your startup thrive.
1. 500 Startups
Established: 2010
Headquarters: Silicon Valley
Who Can Participate
The 500 LatAm Program is tailored for Spanish-speaking early-stage companies in sectors like fintech, e-commerce, edtech, logistics, proptech, and healthtech.
What’s Offered
Participants receive a customized 12-month program with access to mentorship from successful entrepreneur alumni. Additionally, startups have the opportunity to secure a $300,000 investment.
Terms of Participation
500 Startups invests $300,000 in exchange for a 10% equity stake through a convertible note known as KISS, along with a $15,000 program fee.
2. Founder Institute
Global Reach: Over 7,000 entrepreneurs
Funding Raised: More than $1.75 billion
Who Can Participate
Any pre-seed startup is eligible, with two main programs: FI Core for new founders and Founder Lab for those seeking advisory support.
What’s Offered
A comprehensive 4-month program providing funding, mentorship, and access to an extensive network of successful alumni.
Terms of Participation
Startups commit 2.5% equity to the Founder Institute’s Equity Collective model upon completion of the program.
3. MassChallenge Mexico
Duration: 4 months
Notable Success: Bitso, the first crypto unicorn from Latin America
Who Can Participate
Early-stage startups across all industries with less than $1 million in equity funding and under $2 million in annual revenue.
What’s Offered
A zero-cost, zero-equity program offering mentorship, corporate partnerships, and the chance to receive up to $100,000 in investment.
Terms of Participation
Startups apply through MassChallenge’s website by completing their application profile.
4. AgilMentor
Location: Argentina
Impact: Empowered over 1,000 entrepreneurs with 10,000+ hours of mentoring
Who Can Participate
Entrepreneurs with an idea looking for a co-founder are welcome.
What’s Offered
“Training-by-doing” approach with access to expert mentors and agile methodology training to develop and grow startups.
Terms of Participation
Stay updated on program applications by following AgilMentor’s website.
5. Start-Up Chile
Total Startups Supported: 3,000+
Programs Offered: Pre-acceleration (Build), Acceleration (Ignite), Scale-up (Growth)
Who Can Participate
Scalable technology-based businesses across all sectors.
What’s Offered
Funding varies by program, ranging from $16,000 to $80,000, along with mentorship and guidance for long-term success.
Terms of Participation
Detailed requirements for each program can be found on the Start-Up Chile website.
6. Socialab
Location: Chile
Network: Offices in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, and Guatemala
Who Can Participate
Early-stage startups in creative industries.
What’s Offered
Brainstorming sessions, mentoring, acceleration programs, and access to a network of over 600,000 creatives from 96 countries.
Terms of Participation
Join by exploring active challenges on the Socialab website.
7. Startup Farm
Location: Brazil
Duration: 6 months
Startups Accelerated: 300+ since 2011
Who Can Participate
Startups across various industries and stages.
What’s Offered
Access to corporate partners, investor networks, potential customers, and up to $150,000 in investment or 5% equity.
Terms of Participation
Participants must relinquish 5% equity and can receive additional investment upon program completion.
8. GridX
Focus: Biotech and scientific startups
Who Can Participate
Entrepreneurs developing science and biotech solutions aiming to commercialize their products.
What’s Offered
Investment up to $200,000 for product launch and up to $1.5 million for scaling through seed and Series A rounds, along with access to international investors.
Terms of Participation
Applications are currently closed, but entrepreneurs can apply when new cycles open on the GridX website.
9. Wayra
Backed By: Telefónica
Hubs: Europe and Latin America
Startups Accelerated: 400+ in LATAM
Who Can Participate
Early-stage businesses aligned with Telefónica’s solutions, particularly in IoT, AI, healthcare, Web3, cybersecurity, and fintech.
What’s Offered
Up to $2 million in investment, innovation support, mentorship, and growth avenues facilitated by Telefónica.
Terms of Participation
Apply to Wayra programs by reviewing the specific terms on their website.
10. Parallel 18
Backed By: Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust
Startups Supported: 394+
Funds Raised: $210 million
Who Can Participate
Businesses aiming to expand, with programs tailored for local, international, and growth-stage startups.
What’s Offered
Funding, mentorship, business connections, hands-on lessons, and $40,000 in equity-free funding.
Terms of Participation
Requirements vary by program. Startups must be based in Puerto Rico or maintain accounts there, detailed on the Parallel 18 website.
Conclusion
Latin America’s startup ecosystem is flourishing, and the region’s top accelerator programs are pivotal in driving this growth. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established startup founder, joining one of these accelerators can provide the necessary support and resources to scale your business effectively.
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