Peter Ester is professor of human capital and entrepreneurship at Rotterdam University.

Foreword by Vish MishraAcknowledgementsRespondents and Key Features of Participating Accelerators1. Silicon Valley: The DNA of an Entrepreneurial RegionIntroductionEurope and Silicon ValleyAccelerators: pillars of Silicon Valley's startup support infrastructureAccelerators: role, research & resultsMethodologyOverview2. Innovation and Startups in Silicon Valley: An Ecosystem ApproachModeling the Valley's ecosystemThe model in more detailThe micro level: product, people & pivotThe meso level: capital, universities, government & support networks The macro level: culture, culture, culture3. Unique Selling Points: Accelerator Philosophy, Business Model & CooperationIncubators versus acceleratorsCore philosophy & focusBusiness modelExternal cooperationConclusion4. Strong Teams Will Win: How Accelerators Select and Coach Startup TeamsSelection procedureMentoringConclusion5. Working on a Dream: Accelerator Startup ProgramsGeneral and specialized acceleratorsAccelerating platformsConclusion 6. Accelerator Darlings, Challenges & Future PlansSuccess, failure, and showcasesChallenges and future plansConclusion7. What Can Europe Learn From Silicon Valley Accelerators?Summary: main findings, main lessonsBridging Europe's innovation gapAccelerator decision tool: 10 basic questionsFinal thoughtsNotesGlossaryReferencesAppendix 1. Interviewed Silicon Valley Accelerator Founders & Chief ExecutivesAppendix 2. Questionnaire Personal Interviews Silicon Valley Accelerators

This book describes how accelerators, the 'schools of startup entrepreneurship', help startups to become successful companies in Silicon Valley, the world's most successful innovation region.