Business incubators and business accelerators are sometimes lumped together, and in fact, newer hybrid programs are emerging. However, there are key differences. Business incubators accept companies at very early stages, even before there's a minimum viable product or marketing plan. Founders may stay in the incubator community for years. Support tends to be in the form of material assistance, like free or inexpensive workspaces and enabling technology at a steep discount, and help applying for incorporation or patents, for example. An incubator may connect a startup with angel or VC investors, but it's non-dilutive, meaning it doesn't take equity in exchange for services. Business accelerators are not open-ended; companies enroll for a fixed program, normally six months or less. The experience can be intense, with a lot of learning, networking and product and service refinement crammed into a short period of time. Like incubators, a key benefit is the connections and mentorship provided. Funding comes from the accelerator via its investors in exchange for equity. The accelerator may also help a company hire executives, acquire new customers or assemble a board of directors.