LinkedIn and Twitter are not just for networking and news—they're powerful platforms that the most successful startups use strategically to attract investors and customers.
We understand that you're busy building your startup and the thought of managing social media might feel like another task on your already full plate.
But here's the thing: you don't need to be a marketing guru or spend a lot of money to make it effective. Just a few minutes a day can bring new opportunities and connections to your business.
To support you, we have created a free list of content ideas - also, for a comprehensive action plan, please check our strategy pack for startup founders.
Get the content idea list made for startup incubator owners
A lot of startup incubators manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a startup incubator
We have analyzed numerous startup incubators' social media strategies while developing our strategy pack for startup incubators - here is what consistently drives success.
Content Type | Why It Works to Attract and Retain Startups |
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Success Stories | Showcasing successful startups that have graduated from the incubator can inspire and attract new entrepreneurs looking for similar success. |
Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Providing a glimpse into the daily operations, mentorship sessions, and workspace environment builds trust and creates a connection with potential applicants. |
Founder Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from current and past founders provide social proof and encourage others to join the incubator. |
Workshops and Events | Announcing upcoming workshops, networking events, and pitch nights can attract startups looking for valuable learning and networking opportunities. |
User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by incubator members (photos, success stories) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
Local Collaborations | Partnering with local businesses, universities, or influencers can introduce the incubator to a broader, local audience of potential startups. |
Mentor Spotlights | Featuring profiles of mentors and their expertise can attract startups looking for specific guidance and support. |
Seasonal and Industry Trends | Highlighting seasonal trends or industry-specific insights can attract startups looking for timely and relevant information. |
Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to apply. |
Resource Shares | Sharing valuable resources such as eBooks, templates, and guides can intrigue entrepreneurs and motivate them to seek further support from the incubator. |
Daily Tips and Insights | Regularly updating followers with daily business tips and industry insights keeps the incubator top-of-mind and encourages engagement. |
Team Stories | Featuring stories about the incubator team members creates a personal connection and humanizes the brand. |
Startup Tips | Sharing tips and tricks for startups can engage followers who are entrepreneurs and innovators. |
Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or socially responsible initiatives appeals to environmentally and socially conscious startups. |
Startup Spotlights | Featuring regular startups creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
Contests and Challenges | Running contests and challenges can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into incubator applicants. |
Some startup incubators make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best startup incubators in the world. Replicate them now!
How can startup incubator owners make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality visuals and compelling stories about your startups are essential.
People invest with their eyes and hearts first. Make sure the lighting is good, the products or services look innovative, and the presentation is professional.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your incubator. Behind-the-scenes photos, founder stories, and startup success stories can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential investors and partners excited, highlight any special events, pitch days, or new startup launches. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new startups and investors.
An example of our marketing pack for
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your incubator’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your incubator, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for startup incubators.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on LinkedIn or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage startups to share their own photos and tag your incubator. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for startup incubators on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, low-budget content ideas tailored for startup incubators, complete with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively leverage social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your startup incubator.
Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
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Smartphone Office Photos | Use natural light by positioning desks near windows during daytime. Enhance photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
Founder Testimonials | Ask successful founders to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a free consultation or mentorship session as a thank-you. |
User-Generated Content | Encourage startups to share their workspace photos by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your incubator on Instagram. |
DIY Tutorial Videos | Film short, simple tutorials on startup-related topics using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your daily operations or introduce the team during slow hours. |
Event Announcements | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for upcoming events using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a compelling image. |
Mentor Spotlights | Feature mentors with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in the office. |
Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their startup challenges or suggestions for new programs. |
Local Partnership Promotions | Collaborate with local businesses by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
Startup Spotlights | Highlight promising startups with their innovative ideas. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their journey at your incubator. |
Workspace Photos | Create attractive office settings using inexpensive items like plants, desk organizers, and props from dollar stores. |
Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as recycling or using energy-efficient equipment. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of the office setup, such as arranging desks or setting up meeting rooms. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free consultation. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free mentorship session. |
Seasonal Event Posts | Highlight seasonal events and workshops using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the event to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best startup incubators in the world!
There are startup incubators that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for startup incubators
Investing in high-quality content for your startup incubator might be worth it because many other incubators won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab the attention of budding entrepreneurs, and build a loyal community of innovators.
Content Type | Why It Could Attract a LOT of Startups |
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Webinar Series | Hosting live or recorded webinars featuring industry experts can provide valuable insights and create a sense of community, attracting a global audience of entrepreneurs. |
Virtual Office Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your incubator, including co-working spaces and meeting rooms, can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice startups to join. |
Exclusive Mentorship Programs | Creating buzz with limited-time mentorship programs led by successful entrepreneurs can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat participants. |
Founder’s Table Experience | Offering an exclusive experience where startups can sit with successful founders and interact with them can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth. |
AR Pitch Decks | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology in pitch decks where startups can present their ideas in a 3D format can enhance the pitching experience and attract tech-savvy entrepreneurs. |
Themed Networking Events | Hosting themed networking events, such as a startup speed dating or a tech demo night, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
Startup Challenge Contests | Organizing startup challenge contests (e.g., pitch competitions) can create viral moments, attracting competitive entrepreneurs and spectators. |
Collaborative Pop-Up Workshops | Partnering with other local incubators or accelerators to host pop-up workshops can introduce your incubator to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your incubator, the success stories of your startups, or the personal journey of your mentors can create an emotional connection with entrepreneurs. |
Interactive Startup Selection | Allowing the community to vote on which startups should be accepted into the incubator via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to support the selected startups. |
Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as green office spaces or sustainable business practices, can attract environmentally conscious startups and media attention. |
Mobile Incubator Pop-Ups | Operating a mobile incubator in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new startups who may join your main incubator later. |
Resource Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where startups receive monthly resources and toolkits to grow their business can create a loyal community of entrepreneurs. |
Immersive Business Workshops | Hosting workshops where startups can learn advanced business techniques from your mentors can attract business enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
Flash Mob Pitch Events | Organizing flash mob pitch events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous entrepreneurs looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for startup incubators on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these strategies. We've seen many startup founders make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or attract the right investors and partners for your startup.
Content Type | Why It Never Works for Startups | Do This Instead |
---|---|---|
Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make your startup appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your team, workspace, and product to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, customer testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with your startup or industry confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your startup, product development, industry trends, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your startup's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your startup positively. |
Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on your startup, industry, and community involvement. |
Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your audience and value their feedback. |
Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your startup can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with other startups, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential investors and partners. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value input. |
Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your startup seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your startup. |
Make your startup incubator more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best startup incubators in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your startup incubator
We understand that as a small business owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running your business are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically designed for small business owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your business. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small businesses on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your business's visibility online.
With our social media marketing pack, you can invest in your business's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your startup incubator could make more money!
Most startup incubator owners don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.