Work

Do startup incubators enhance new venture performance? Evidence from a meta-analysis

Year: 2026

Type: review

Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Incubators have become prominent institutional vehicles for fostering entrepreneurial activity, yet empirical evidence on their effectiveness remains inconclusive and fragmented. This study addresses this gap by conducting a meta-analysis on the impact of incubator participation on new venture performance. Synthesizing data from 22 original empirical studies and 65 effect sizes, we find a statistically significant and positive overall effect. Beyond this main effect, our analysis reveals that program specialization, public sponsorship, and regional context moderate the relationship between incubation and startup performance. This paper contributes to the theoretical understanding of incubators by providing new insights of their role in enhancing financial, operational, and strategic dimensions of new venture performance. Our findings provide a robust empirical foundation for future theorizing on entrepreneurial support systems.

Source: Review of Managerial Science

DOI: 10.1007/s11846-026-01017-w

Authors: Nikolaus Seitz, Martina Buratti, Erik E. Lehmann, Niklas Eberle

Institutions: Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, University of Augsburg

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190