The basic definition of a business ecosystem is best described by J. Moore (1993): “In a business ecosystem, companies co-evolve capabilities around a new innovation: they work cooperatively and competitively to support new products, satisfy customer needs, and eventually incorporate the next round of innovations.” [Moore, James F.: Predators and Prey: A New Ecology of Competition. In: Harvard Business Review, May–June 1993]

Ecosystems are the most powerful and sustainable way of solving social and environmental problems by creating an environment where different stakeholders such as entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, venture capitalists, and business developers work together in a complex system to advance a shared vision of innovation. As ecosystem builders, it is on us to shape a joint vision and to make these systems function.

An ecosystem accelerator is a structured program designed to rapidly strengthen and advance an innovation ecosystem as a whole—not just individual startups. Unlike typical startup accelerators, which focus on growing single companies, an ecosystem accelerator supports collaboration and capacity building among all key actors: entrepreneurs, investors, universities, corporations, policymakers, and ecosystem builders.

By bringing these stakeholders together through targeted workshops, mentoring, and joint projects, an ecosystem accelerator creates the conditions for sustainable growth, knowledge exchange, and collective impact. The goal is to align the ecosystem’s strengths, address key challenges, and unlock new opportunities for innovation at scale.

In short:
An ecosystem accelerator helps a region or sector build stronger networks, shared resources, and a thriving environment for innovation—accelerating progress for the entire community, not just for individual startups.

• Startup Support Organizations – Incubators, accelerators, and innovation hubs
• Economic Development Agencies – Government entities focused on innovation & entrepreneurship
• Universities & Research Institutions – Building startup ecosystems around knowledge transfer
• Corporates & Industry Clusters – Driving open innovation and venture engagement
• Investment & Funding Bodies – Seeking high-potential regional ecosystems

There is no upfront fee to join the program. However, we operate on a success-fee model, meaning a contribution is only required if your project receives funding or generates revenue as a result of the accelerator. Review the participation agreement here.

No, as Smarterra started in the South of Italy and is inspiring more regions around the world.

All modules, workshops, and learning materials are in English.

Your own offerings can be in the commonly used language of your ecosystem.

The accelerator program follows a hybrid format and includes mandatory in-person components. Some travel—particularly for the Smarterra Agrifood Innovation Summit or the demo day—will be required.

The program follows a hybrid format and includes mandatory attendance at key events such as the Smarterra Agrifood Innovation Summit or the demo day.