What is a startup incubator?

If you’re new to the startup world, you might be asking “what exactly is a startup incubator”? You might even think an incubator is something used to hatch chicks—and you wouldn’t be wrong! While we don’t hatch chickens, startup incubators like MBI share the same core idea: providing the right environment for our companies to grow. At its heart, a startup incubator is a place where scientists can nurture their ideas and develop them into functional products. That’s why our tagline is “from concept to clinical trials.”

Starting a company is expensive. Starting a science company—one that requires specialized equipment, handles chemicals, and involves potential hazards—can be really expensive. To help offset these costs, startup incubators will typically offer shared or private lab spaces and access to scientific equipment, making it possible for early-stage companies with limited funding to get started.

Why should I join a startup incubator?

According to the National Business Incubation Association, startups that utilize an incubator have an 87% survival rate within their first five years, compared to just 44% for those that don’t.  This is because incubators foster collaboration, camaraderie, and networking… and MBI does it best. The phrase “it takes a village” is true even in the startup world. Being surrounded by other entrepreneurs creates an environment where ideas flourish, partnerships form, and opportunities—like funding—become more accessible.

But MBI’s incubators are different. As a nonprofit, every dollar we receive goes back into supporting the companies we incubate. Beyond affordable, fully private lab space, we provide mentorship programs, funding access, a vast array of shared equipment, and a vibrant community of talented entrepreneurs. Through our Partnership Program, we connect startups to the resources and support they need at every stage of their journey.

At MBI, our mission is to support startups from concept to clinical trials—and beyond. Unlike many incubators, we offer unique StartUp and ScaleUp models and don’t push companies out before they’re ready or impose limits based on funding milestones. MBI isn’t just an incubator; we’re a launchpad for success. See what makes us different by contacting us today!