Foreword by Vish Mishra Acknowledgements Respondents and Key Features of Participating Accelerators 1. Silicon Valley: The DNA of an Entrepreneurial Region Introduction Europe and Silicon Valley Accelerators: pillars of Silicon Valley's startup support infrastructure Accelerators: role, research & results Methodology Overview 2. Innovation and Startups in Silicon Valley: An Ecosystem Approach Modeling the Valley's ecosystem The model in more detail The micro level: product, people & pivot The meso level: capital, universities, government & support networks The macro level: culture, culture, culture 3. Unique Selling Points: Accelerator Philosophy, Business Model & Cooperation Incubators versus accelerators Core philosophy & focus Business model External cooperation Conclusion 4. Strong Teams Will Win: How Accelerators Select and Coach Startup Teams Selection procedure Mentoring Conclusion 5. Working on a Dream: Accelerator Startup Programs General and specialized accelerators Accelerating platforms Conclusion 6. Accelerator Darlings, Challenges & Future Plans Success, failure, and showcases Challenges and future plans Conclusion 7. What Can Europe Learn From Silicon Valley Accelerators? Summary: main findings, main lessons Bridging Europe's innovation gap Accelerator decision tool: 10 basic questions Final thoughts Notes Glossary References Appendix 1. Interviewed Silicon Valley Accelerator Founders & Chief Executives Appendix 2. Questionnaire Personal Interviews Silicon Valley Accelerators