This document outlines the typical stages of a startup timeline from idea formation through commercialization, and how business incubators can provide mentoring, networking opportunities, funding, office space, and other perks to help startups progress through each stage of development. It encourages those interested in incubators to think ambitiously about their ideas, develop working prototypes, form business plans that include monetization strategies, and assemble strong founding teams in order to be competitive applicants.