https://www.cortexstl.org/sq1/

Ben Molina from Square ONE talks about boot camps, incubators and accelerators for Startups

Startup Programs: Boot Camps, Incubators, Accelerators

Mary Scott interviewed Ben Molina from Square One to discuss the differences between boot camps, incubators, and accelerators for startups. Ben explained that incubators are for idea-stage businesses, accelerators for established businesses seeking rapid growth, and boot camps fall in between, offering support for already established businesses that need to grow. He described Square One's programs, Square One Ignite and Square One Boot Camp, which provide guidance on market validation, business fundamentals, and pitch deck development. Ben mentioned that Square One's programs have fees but offer scholarships, and he highlighted the supportive St. Louis small business ecosystem. Accelerators have no fees & provide funding in addition to education & other opportunities, however it is highly competitive to get into one. Mary encouraged viewers to find help at their libraries to research local programs and join pitch events like Pitch STL.