Spark Lab
The Spark Lab Incubator is a high-impact virtual program that equips early-stage entrepreneurs with expert mentoring, strategic workshops, and unparalleled community networking to accelerate business growth, all designed through an LGBTQ+ lens.
Who We Are
The Spark Lab Incubator is a virtual, 6-week program designed to equip entrepreneurs who have launched their businesses with expert mentorship, strategic workshops, and a dynamic peer network. Spark Lab provides the tools and support needed to build a sustainable, scalable business.
A core component of the program is the Business Plan, a structured framework to help you sharpen your strategy, define market approaches, and forecast financials with expert guidance. Throughout the program, you’ll refine this plan to serve as both a roadmap for growth and a foundation for future fundraising and investment opportunities.
By the end of Spark Lab, you’ll have a polished, investor-ready business plan, equipping you with the clarity and confidence to take your venture to the next level.
Applications for Cohort 1 open April 8th and close May 9th. Final selections will be made by May 23rd. Cohort 1 will run June 12th––July 30th.
Spark Lab vs. Growth Lab
We offer two cohort-based experiences for startups. See the table below to understand the differences between each cohort.
Which One Is Best For Me?
| Spark Lab Incubator | Growth Lab Accelerator |
| Annual Revenue/ Funding: > $50,000 in ARR and/or raise | Annual Revenue/Funding: > $200,000 in ARR and/or raise |
| Stage: Angel/ Pre-Seed | Stage: Seed- Series A |
| Focus: Strengthening a scalable business model | Focus: Scaling & capital raising |
| Key Criteria: MVP developed, initial market demand demonstrated | Key Criteria: Expanding customer base & Market Expansion |
| Deliverable: 5-Month Business Plan | Deliverable: 18-Month Business Plan |
What We Offer
- Interactive Workshops that cover everything from financial forecasting to digital marketing strategies tailored for early-stage startups.
- Virtual Community of founders who support and motivate each other.
- Expert Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders who understand what it takes to succeed.
- Networking Opportunities to connect with potential investors, partners, and a supportive group of fellow entrepreneurs working together to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community.
What We Expect
- A commitment to completing the business plan
- Enthusiasm and an eagerness to support your peers and others who contribute to your success.
- A commitment from your company’s founder(s) to participate in the entire 6-week program
- Mandatory attendance at weekly workshops
What Makes an Ideal Candidate
- Company or a subsidiary is registered in the US
- Product or service is established in the marketplace
- Generating at least $50,000 in annual revenue and/or have raised a comparable amount
- High-growth companies with a path to scalability
- For-profit startups
Companies Not Suited for the Spark Lab
- Consulting services
- Cannabis-related, sex-tech, or firearm companies
- Non-profit organizations
- Companies without a subsidiary in the US
Program Participants
Apply Today
Ready to scale your startup? Apply to Spark Lab today and start your journey to transforming your business into a market leader.
Spark Lab is Sponsored By
Join StartOut
Since 2009, StartOut has built a community of over 28,000 members. Every year, we provide support to over 700 individual founders. We connect them to expertise, peers, community, and capital. This powerful combination of financial support, skills development, and community contributes to helping fuel innovation, wealth generation and equal access to economic opportunity. Join our growing community today.