“Applying to an incubator is a mix between applying for a lease and interviewing for a job,” according to CA-based University Lab Partners, a wet and dry lab incubator and accelerator. And if you’re an entrepreneur searching for a spot in a top-tier biotech incubator or accelerator, you may soon know that feeling all too well. These programs offer everything from flexible lab space and state-of-the-art equipment to invaluable mentorship and funding opportunities. But, just like with most worthwhile endeavors, thorough research is the key to succeeding.
ZAGENO’s lab supply procurement platform supports biotech and pharma labs ranging from startup to post-IPO, offering an eagle-eye view of the life sciences industry. Here are 14 of the top biotech incubators that every startup should know, updated for founders in 2025.
Top 14 biotech incubators startups should know in 2025
The following biotech incubators were chosen due to their distinct offerings, notable successes, and the unique advantages they provide to startups.
Bio Labs
Locations: Cambridge, MA; Somerville, MA
Hatch.Bio Labs, formerly known as Nest, is a biotech incubator that provides flexible, turnkey lab and office spaces. They offer comprehensive operational support, advanced scientific equipment, and recently launched a new vivarium facility to support in vivo research.Bayer Co.Lab
Locations: Cambridge, MA; Berlin, Germany; Kobe, Japan; and Shanghai, China
Bayer Co.Lab is a global network of life science incubators. It provides early-stage biotech companies with lab space, access to Bayer’s research expertise, and opportunities for collaboration. The Cambridge location is specifically tailored to the needs of cell and gene therapy companies.SmartLabs
Locations: Boston, MA; Cambridge, MA; San Francisco, CA; and Philadelphia, PA
SmartLabs designs, builds, and operates integrated, enterprise-grade research environments for companies of all sizes. They provide fully customizable, on-demand lab and office spaces with comprehensive operational support, allowing startups to rapidly scale their R&D efforts.JLABS by Johnson & Johnson Innovation
Locations: US, Europe, and Asia Pacific
JLABS is a global network of open innovation ecosystems founded in 2012. It provides startups with state-of-the-art lab space, equipment, and access to a vast network of experts and corporate partners. With a presence in key biotech hubs like Boston and San Francisco, JLABS is a top choice for startups seeking to accelerate their research and development within a capital-efficient model.IndieBio
Locations: San Francisco, New York
IndieBio, a program of global venture capital firm SOSV, is a leading biotech accelerator. It offers multi-stage investment and intensive mentoring to innovative companies. Since its launch in 2014, IndieBio has supported hundreds of companies and is a great fit for founders looking for significant early-stage support and funding.LabCentral
Location: Cambridge, MA
Located in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, LabCentral is a premier non-profit incubator founded in 2013. It offers fully permitted laboratory and office space, shared equipment, and a vibrant community. LabCentral has fostered the growth of hundreds of companies, resulting in billions of dollars in funding and numerous clinical trials.MBC BioLabs
Location: San Francisco Bay Area, CA
MBC BioLabs is a biotech launchpad that provides flexible lab space, state-of-the-art equipment, and a supportive community in the San Francisco Bay Area. Since 2013, it has helped launch and grow over 300 companies, making it one of the most successful biotech incubators in the US.QB3 Garage@UCSF
Locations: Berkley, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, CA
The California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3) is a collaborative effort with five incubators that creates high-value jobs for bio-entrepreneurs. It offers startups access to lab space, equipment, and professional services to help them move from the research phase to commercialization.StartX Med
Location: Stanford, CA
StartX Med is a non-profit organization offering a medical and biotech track for startups. Founded in 2012, it provides mentorship, office space, and access to a strong network of entrepreneurs, investors, and Stanford University resources.BioGenerator Ventures
Location: St. Louis, MO
BioGenerator Ventures is a company dedicated to investing in and supporting early-stage life sciences startups. As both an investor and an incubator, BioGenerator helps companies develop their ideas into viable businesses.Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator
Location: Alachua, FL (near Gainesville)
Known as UF Innovate | Accelerate, the Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator is a well-known incubator provided by the University of Florida. It has a strong reputation for assisting early-stage life sciences companies.ElevateBio
Locations: Waltham, MA, Durham, NC, and Pittsburgh, PA
ElevateBio is a biotech company that focuses on cell and gene therapy development. It provides startups with access to its powerful platforms and manufacturing capabilities, making it an excellent resource for companies in this specific niche.IdeaLab
Location: Pasadena, CA
IdeaLab is one of the world's most renowned startup incubators. Founded in 1996, it has played a pivotal role in launching over 150 companies. While diverse, it has a history of supporting innovative ventures and offers resources like funding, expert mentorship, and a strong network.Alexandria LaunchLabs
Locations: Cambridge, MA; New York City, NY; Research Triangle, NC; Seattle, WA; and San Diego, CA
Alexandria LaunchLabs is a premier startup platform offering full-service, turnkey lab and office spaces for seed- and early-stage life science companies. Backed by Alexandria Real Estate Equities, it provides access to strategic programming, shared equipment, and investment capital through its venture platform.
Bonus biotech startup resources for founders
Because we know research is in your blood, here are some of our additional favorite resources, in case you’re interested in extra credit:
- Looking for more incubators and accelerators? Check out this frequently updated list.
- From Zero to One: Building a Biotech Startup Toolkit, according to Scispot.
- Get tips those who have come before you on Reddit, with threads like Road Map for Starting a Company and How are Most Startups that are Founded by PhDs Started?
- Also check out similar tales on Quora, with threads like, My Startup Just Got Rejected by an Incubator. What Should I Do?
- Read our article, Looking for a Biotech Incubator? 9 Questions Startups Should Ask Themselves First

Ready to grow from an early-stage company to a powerhouse biotech?
ZAGENO’s all-in-one procurement platform scales with you, giving you the tools to manage your lab supplies and streamline your purchasing as you grow. Request a demo and let us help you scale your science.