If you have zero experience running a business from an operational standpoint, i.e., incorporation, accounting, taxes, contracts, then an accelerator can offer valuable help so that you can have "one less thing" to worry about.
Apart from that, the most important thing is the terms of the deal they'll make with you. For example and as a general rule of thumb, more than 10% of your company for less than $100k is something you should reconsider, especially if you are in the US.
The reputation of the accelerator is also important. YC, 500, Techstars, AngelPad are all renowned brands. Study their portfolio companies to understand what their investment thesis and success rate are.
In general, my opinion is that getting into an accelerator can be very valuable for first time founders and if the deal they offer is good, and their track record compelling, I would do it.
From the context of a technical founder:
If you have zero experience running a business from an operational standpoint, i.e., incorporation, accounting, taxes, contracts, then an accelerator can offer valuable help so that you can have "one less thing" to worry about.
Apart from that, the most important thing is the terms of the deal they'll make with you. For example and as a general rule of thumb, more than 10% of your company for less than $100k is something you should reconsider, especially if you are in the US.
The reputation of the accelerator is also important. YC, 500, Techstars, AngelPad are all renowned brands. Study their portfolio companies to understand what their investment thesis and success rate are.
In general, my opinion is that getting into an accelerator can be very valuable for first time founders and if the deal they offer is good, and their track record compelling, I would do it.