A typical incubation program has three phases:
We have an [example spreadsheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AoScSjWfMiI8wrUPL1waPTFqotPJ295e82I3jvK5bRY/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AoScSjWfMiI8wrUPL1waPTFqotPJ295e82I3jvK5bRY/edit?usp=sharing)) (for paying subscribers only) which contains all possible activities you could organise to operate a program. It's split up per phase.
During preparation you want to first of all design the program. Check out the Program Design chapter for more information about that.
Based on your program goals (which you produce during your design) you most likely need to build an inventory of your team's network to see who and in what way influential people can help you.
You also need to produce communication materials, such as a website, presentations, flyers, email templates and other things in order to conduct outreach and manage the pipeline.
Finally, you need to design and set selection criteria for the startups or entrepreneurs you want to select and organise a selection process.
One thing to consider as part of the selection process or promotion of the program is to organise a weekender event which allows people to get an impression or for you to filter applicants by seeing them in action. We have workshop materials for running such a weekend. Check out the Materials and Formats section for the Startup 101 Weekender slides and the Facilitation Guide on how to run it.
Managing your pipeline is the most gruelling and time-consuming part of operating a program. Almost everyone underestimates this part. Especially if you're operating this program for the first time this is effectively the litmus test for your program's value.
There are three, compounding ways to reach out the the community of (aspiring) entrepreneurs:
You'll need all three to accomplish maximum outreach. This often costs time and money. It will cost you less if you have a bigger and more engaged network of ambassadors by building a brand. Check out the Building Brand Value chapter for more information.
A great value proposition for potential applicants makes this easier, at least when it comes to getting applicants, but regardless on how easy it is to interest both the potential applicants as well as you can, it will be a huge time suck. In case it's hard to fill the pipeline you'll be hustling for applicants, while if you have many applicants you'll spend more time filtering and selecting the right ones.