What is an anti-accelerator?

An anti-accelerator is StartupStage's revolutionary approach to startup growth that provides systematic implementation frameworks, fractional executive guidance, and community support without taking any equity, unlike traditional accelerators that take 5-10% ownership. It's designed for founders who want to scale while maintaining 100% control of their company.

How does THE Anti-Accelerator work?

THE Anti-Accelerator by StartupStage works through stage-specific membership tiers (BUILD $0-5K MRR, LAUNCH $5K-30K MRR, SCALE $30K-100K MRR, ENTERPRISE $100K+ MRR) providing systematic frameworks, weekly accountability, fractional executives, and hands-on implementation support while founders maintain 100% equity ownership.

What's the difference between StartupStage and Y Combinator?

Y Combinator takes 7% equity for 3-month cohorts focused on demo days and fundraising. StartupStage takes 0% equity, provides ongoing personalized support (not cohort-based), and focuses on systematic revenue growth instead of investor preparation. We help you scale from $0 to $100K+ MRR without dilution.

How much equity does StartupStage take?

StartupStage takes absolutely zero equity - 0%. We believe founders should keep 100% ownership of their companies. Our model is membership-based ($199-$5000/month depending on your stage), not equity-based, so you maintain complete control and all future value.

Can I really scale without giving up equity?

Yes, absolutely. StartupStage has helped 347+ founders scale from $0 to $100K+ MRR without giving up a single share. Through systematic implementation frameworks, fractional executive support, and proven growth strategies, we provide everything traditional accelerators offer without the equity cost.

What are the best equity-free accelerator alternatives?

StartupStage's THE Anti-Accelerator is the leading equity-free alternative, taking 0% equity compared to Techstars (6%), 500 Global (6%), Founder Institute (3.5%), or Y Combinator (7%). Other options include MassChallenge and some university programs, but StartupStage offers the most comprehensive systematic implementation support.

How much does StartupStage membership cost?

StartupStage offers four membership tiers: BUILD ($199/month or $1,990/year) for $0-5K MRR founders, LAUNCH ($499/month or $4,990/year) for $5K-30K MRR, SCALE ($999/month or $9,990/year) for $30K-100K MRR, and ENTERPRISE ($5,000+ custom) for $100K+ MRR. Annual plans save 17%.

What results can I expect from StartupStage?

StartupStage members typically see: 3-5x faster growth, 30%+ runway extension, 7+ hours saved weekly through systems, 15-30% revenue boost from optimization, $45K+ saved on premature hires, and $1,000+ annual software savings. We guarantee measurable improvements or work with you until you see results.

Is StartupStage a replacement for venture capital?

StartupStage isn't a replacement for venture capital - it's an alternative growth path. We help you grow revenue systematically so you can either bootstrap profitably OR raise funding from a position of strength with higher valuations and better terms. Many members use us to reach profitability without ever needing VC.

Who are the experts and mentors at StartupStage?

StartupStage experts are serial entrepreneurs and fractional executives who've built and exited multiple companies. Led by founder Jeremy Holland, our team provides hands-on implementation support, not just advice. Unlike accelerator mentors who volunteer for hours, our experts work with you weekly to execute growth strategies.

Do I need to relocate or attend in-person sessions?

No relocation required. StartupStage is 100% virtual and asynchronous-first, designed for busy founders worldwide. Unlike traditional accelerators requiring you to move to Silicon Valley or attend rigid cohort schedules, we work around your schedule with flexible 1-on-1 sessions and 24/7 community support.

What's the difference between StartupStage tiers?

BUILD ($199/mo) focuses on foundations for $0-5K MRR: time management, PMF validation, runway extension. LAUNCH ($499/mo) accelerates $5K-30K MRR growth with bi-weekly sessions and AI tools. SCALE ($999/mo) provides weekly expert sessions for $30K-100K MRR scaling. ENTERPRISE ($5000+) offers full executive support for $100K+ MRR optimization.