How to Build a Team While in an Incubator Platform

Incubating on an incubator platform is frequently the initial major leap for early-stage companies. You have a good idea, perhaps some sort of prototype, and now you find yourself in an environment geared to assist your development. But there's one thing you cannot establish a thriving business without: the right people.

Here’s how to build the right team while making the most of your time in an incubator platform.

Understand What Your Startup Needs

Before posting job descriptions or reaching out to friends, take time to assess what your startup needs at this stage.

Do you need technical co-founders or developers to build your product? Are you looking for someone who understands operations or early marketing? Start by breaking down the tasks you’re currently handling alone and identifying where support would have the most impact.

Remember, building a team doesn’t always mean hiring full-time employees right away. In the early stages, it’s often about bringing in collaborators who are just as invested in the mission as you are.

Use the Incubator Platform’s Network

One of the most valuable parts of any incubator platform is the access it provides—mentors, advisors, other startups, and sometimes even talent pools.

Many incubator platforms regularly host networking sessions, pitch events, or meetups. Attend them all. Use every opportunity to talk about what you’re working on and the kind of team members you're looking for. You never know when you’ll meet a potential co-founder, developer, or early-stage marketer who shares your vision.

Also, don't hesitate to ask your program manager for introductions. That’s what they’re there for.

Collaborate with Fellow Founders

It’s easy to think of other founders as just fellow participants. But within an incubator platform, they’re also potential collaborators.

Sometimes, you’ll find someone from another startup who’s excellent at something your startup lacks—and vice versa. You might not be able to hire them, but you can exchange skills, form short-term collaborations, or even brainstorm together. These early bonds can lead to long-term partnerships or team referrals.

Even if you’re not building your team directly from this pool, learning how others hire and delegate can give you a head start.

Look for Aligned Values, Not Just Skills

It’s tempting to focus only on technical skills—someone who can build an app, design a landing page, or handle finances. However, in a startup, especially in the early days, mindset matters more than anything else.

The people you bring in must be ready to take risks, adapt quickly, and work without rigid structures. Look for those who genuinely believe in the problem you’re solving.

While you're on the incubator platform, use this protected time to test out people. Start small—maybe with a project or a trial period. If it works well, you can gradually integrate them more deeply into the team.

Leverage Free and Low-Cost Talent Channels

You may not have the funds to offer big salaries just yet—and that’s okay. Instead, think creatively.

Many incubator platforms have partnerships with universities or talent programs that can help connect you with interns, recent graduates, or freelancers. Consider offering equity to early contributors who are willing to make long-term commitments.

Just make sure expectations are clear. Document everything, even informal arrangements, to avoid misunderstandings later.

Be Transparent About Where You Are

When building a team in the early stages, honesty goes a long way. Make it clear what stage your product is in, what traction you have (or don’t), and what you can realistically offer.

People are more willing to join an early-stage company if they feel informed and included. Share your vision, but also talk about the challenges you’re facing. The right person will be drawn to the opportunity, not just the perks.

Set a Foundation for Culture Early

Team culture isn’t just for big companies. It starts with the very first person you bring on board.

What kind of decision-making style do you want to build? How will you handle disagreements? How will you celebrate progress?

Even while in an incubator platform, start shaping these ideas. Your early team members will set the tone for future hires, so be intentional about this.

A good practice is to check in as a team regularly—discuss what’s working, what’s not, and how you want to grow together. These conversations matter more than any formal handbook at this stage.

Conclusion

An incubator platform gives you access to resources, connections, and support—but it’s up to you to make those tools work for you. Building a team while you’re in one isn’t just possible—it’s the ideal environment to do it.

You’re surrounded by advice, potential collaborators, and a structure that allows for experimentation. Use this time to find people who aren’t just qualified, but also committed to the journey.

After all, your idea might be the spark, but the team you build is what turns it into a company.