Sooner or later, every entrepreneur asks himself the question: How can I accelerate the development of my project?
Two support formats are often used: Masterminds, peer-to-peer exchange groups, and the incubators, more institutional support structures. But which is the most suitable for your situation?
What is a mastermind?
One Mastermind is a select group of entrepreneurs who meet regularly to share their experiences, problems and advice.
Key principles:
- 👥 Small group from 5 to 15 people,
- 🔄 Peer exchanges (no hierarchy),
- 🎯 Objective: to progress through collective intelligence.
A mastermind is based on the trust, transparency and reciprocity : everyone gives and receives.
What is an incubator?
One incubator is a structure that supports startups and entrepreneurs in the first phases of their development.
It generally offers:
- 📍 Of premises and workspaces,
- 🧑 🏫 Of training workshops (business plan, fundraising, marketing),
- 🤝 One access to a network (experts, investors, partners),
- 💶 Sometimes funding or public aid.
The incubator follows a more formal framework, with structured support programs.
Mastermind vs incubator: the key differences
Even though the two approaches aim to help entrepreneurs, their formats and benefits are very different.
1. The format
- The Mastermind is based on exchanges between peers, in a small group (5 to 15 people), without hierarchy.
- THEincubator, on the other hand, works as a structured program, with experts, training and sometimes premises.
2. The duration
- One Mastermind can last as long as the group remains active, with great flexibility.
- One incubator generally offers support for a limited period of time (often between 6 and 24 months).
3. The type of support
- In a Mastermind, support is based on collective intelligence and immediate feedback.
- In a incubator, we benefit from a more formal framework with mentors, workshops and structured follow-up.
4. The cost
- Les Masterminds most often work on a subscription or subscription basis.
- Les incubators are sometimes free, financed by grants, or may require equity participation.
5. The target audience
- Les Masterminds are aimed at entrepreneurs of all levels, including freelancers.
- Les incubators rather target innovative startups in the design or seed phase.
6. The key benefits
- The Mastermind allows you to quickly obtain concrete advice and motivation thanks to group dynamics.
- THEincubator opens access to a broad network of experts, investors and to material or financial resources.
What are the advantages for an entrepreneur?
Advantages of the mastermind
- 💡 External vision immediate on its problems,
- 🔄 Frank and concrete exchanges among peers,
- 🚀 Motivation and accountability (each member is committed to their goals).
Incubator advantages
- 📚 Structuring the project (methodology, business model),
- 🤝 Connection with investors, partners and experts,
- 💶 Access to aid and funding often exclusive.
What solution should you choose to boost your project?
- Mastermind 👉 ideal for an entrepreneur already launched who is looking for support, concrete ideas and a collective dynamic.
- Incubator 👉 suitable for an innovative startup in the design or seed phase, in need of expertise and funding.
->The two approaches are not exclusive: some entrepreneurs start in an incubator, then join a mastermind to continue to progress over time.
Conclusion
Whether it is a Mastermind Or of a incubator, the key remains the same: Do not move forward alone. The choice depends on the stage of your project, your needs (network, financing, structuring, moral support) and your personality.
-> The important thing is to dare to surround yourself in order to save time, avoid costly mistakes and maximize your chances of success.
