Build What Comes Next.

You’ve launched your business and built something real. Spark Lab gives you eight weeks of expert guidance, practical tools, and community to find your customers, strengthen your strategy, and build momentum.

Who We Are

The Spark Lab Incubator is a virtual, 8-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.

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

How to Apply for Spark Lab

To apply to the Spark Lab, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Create an account with StartOut: Click here to create an account.

Step 2: Complete the Founder’s Application: This standard application covers details about yourself and your business.

Step 3: Answer Spark Lab-specific questions: At the end of the application (Page 6), respond to the questions related to the Spark Lab Application.

Step 4: Submit your application: Click ‘submit’ on Page 7.

This entire application process is designed to be quick and should take no more than 10 minutes.

Applications are now closed.

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.

"Working with StartOut Spark Lab was a great experience that provided me with the guidance and connections needed to take my business to the next level. Through the program, I collaborated with an incredible mentor who helped me develop a strategic roadmap, refine my revenue model, and identify short-term goals to move my business forward."

"For me, being part of the Incubator Pilot was invaluable. The combination of engaging lunch and learns led by insightful mentors, coupled with the dedicated one-on-one mentor time, made a real difference in refining our business plan and significantly aiding in our SEO efforts (which was a key topic my mentor and I discussed extensively)."

"Spark Lab pushed me to think like a founder, not just an idea person. It opened doors to thoughtful mentors who challenged and supported me while I shaped my startup's direction and strategy. The structured feedback and accountability helped me build a real business plan, not just a pitch."

"I truly got everything mentioned on this program. Business plan is the least you'll get - mentors helping you, networking to help you in succeeding your business, and a true safe space to do mistakes. It sound like a cliche, and in the most cynical point of view, its really worth every second."

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

Cohort 4

Cohort 3

Cohort 2

Cohort 1

Pilot Companies

Applications for Cohort 4 are now closed.

Mentors in Residence

Spark Lab is proud to be guided by experienced startup leaders Beatrice Stonebanks and Chad Billymer, who bring deep operational expertise and a passion for empowering early-stage LGBTQ+ founders. As Lead Mentors, they work directly with each company in the cohort to provide strategic feedback, refine business plans, and help founders prepare for scale.

Spark Lab is Sponsored By

Join StartOut

Since 2009, StartOut has built a community of over 18,000 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.