categories of incubator success: a case study of three new york incubator programmes

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to investigate and identify three categories of incubators in the USA located in New York (NY). The incubator categories are: technology commercialisation; economic development; and entrepreneurship.Design/methodology/approach– The study uses a qualitative approach based on interviews concerning three incubator programmes selected for their successful outcomes.Findings– The research findings suggest four priorities for incubators: to be dynamic models of self-sustainable, efficient business development; to provide helpful tools for generating jobs; to foster and support enterprise and innovation to create the best environment for the start-up and smart growth of businesses; and to support value-added businesses through various means, such as developing the region’s science parks and R&D centres, improving collaboration between universities, and supporting business investment and growth.Originality/value– The research adds value to academicians and practitioners such as government, funded organisations, institutions and policy makers.