The Future of The Accelerator Model

Debbie Irwin of Lighthouse Labs, Nate Domenighini & Vanessa Huerta of Gener8tor, Cedric Maloux of StartupYard, Eric Mathews of Start Co.

Aug 28, 2025

Front page of the Future of the Accelerator white paper

A White Paper from the Global Venture Network

Accelerators have been at the center of venture development for nearly two decades, but the model is changing.

Today, the most successful programs are shifting from a one-size-fits-all approach to one that places founders, not just startups, at the heart of acceleration.

In the 'Future of the Accelerator Model' white paper, you’ll explore:
  • The forces reshaping accelerators worldwide—from remote work to the race for “investment-grade” startups.

  • Why founder development is emerging as the most sustainable strategy for long-term impact.

  • Case studies and insights from leaders at Lighthouse, gener8tor, StartupYard, and Start Co.

  • New practices accelerators are adopting to strengthen founders, ecosystems, and entire industries.

Whether you lead an accelerator, venture studio, or hub, or simply care about the future of entrepreneurship, this report offers a roadmap for building stronger programs and more resilient founders.

Authored by leaders from organizations like Lighthouse, gener8tor, StartupYard, and Start Co., it presents a vision for the future of acceleration that emphasizes human-centered design, practical knowledge application, and the long-term success of founders.

Join the world's network of venture leaders

Get in touch to discover how our network of venture leaders can accelerate your knowledge, enhance your portfolio performance, and position you at the forefront of early-stage venture.

Global Venture Network

We unite venture leaders globally to achieve superior returns through exclusive access, strategic intelligence, and collaborative advantage. Our specialized networks for venture accelerators, studios, and innovation hubs create an ecosystem where exceptional ventures flourish.

You can also email us at:

@2025 Global Venture Network, All Rights Reserved

Join the world's network of venture leaders

Get in touch to discover how our network of venture leaders can accelerate your knowledge, enhance your portfolio performance, and position you at the forefront of early-stage venture.

Global Venture Network

We unite venture leaders globally to achieve superior returns through exclusive access, strategic intelligence, and collaborative advantage. Our specialized networks for venture accelerators, studios, and innovation hubs create an ecosystem where exceptional ventures flourish.

You can also email us at:

@2025 Global Venture Network, All Rights Reserved

Join the world's network of venture leaders

Get in touch to discover how our network of venture leaders can accelerate your knowledge, enhance your portfolio performance, and position you at the forefront of early-stage venture.

Global Venture Network

We unite venture leaders globally to achieve superior returns through exclusive access, strategic intelligence, and collaborative advantage. Our specialized networks for venture accelerators, studios, and innovation hubs create an ecosystem where exceptional ventures flourish.

You can also email us at:

@2025 Global Venture Network, All Rights Reserved

Join the world's network of venture leaders

Get in touch to discover how our network of venture leaders can accelerate your knowledge, enhance your portfolio performance, and position you at the forefront of early-stage venture.

Global Venture Network

We unite venture leaders globally to achieve superior returns through exclusive access, strategic intelligence, and collaborative advantage. Our specialized networks for venture accelerators, studios, and innovation hubs create an ecosystem where exceptional ventures flourish.

You can also email us at:

@2025 Global Venture Network, All Rights Reserved