Accelerators revisited: Taking stock and charting the path forward

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive, updated overview of the literature on accelerators, highlighting their evolving role as cohort-based programs in supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. Accelerators have become central in helping startups overcome financial, skill-related, and legitimacy challenges. However, existing research on the topic remains fragmented. To address this, we conduct a bibliometric analysis of 174 peer-reviewed articles, collected from the Scopus database over the period 2005–2024. The findings reveal five thematic clusters: (1) Accelerators as open innovation tools; (2) Performance measurement and effectiveness; (3) Strategic approaches to startup growth; (4) The role of accelerators in entrepreneurial ecosystems; and (5) Design and evolution of accelerator models. We complement this analysis with an examination of the most cited works from the last five years. By integrating quantitative and qualitative insights, we identify gaps in the accelerator literature associated with these clusters and develop a research agenda structured around five research avenues: (1) Institutional and geographical contexts; (2) Diversity in selection processes; (3) Social and environmental impacts; (4) Collaboration dynamics; and (5) University-based and corporate accelerator roles. The results offer a solid foundation for scholars and practitioners to navigate the evolving landscape of accelerators and their impact on startup ecosystems in a context of post-pandemic environment and ongoing transformation.