AngelPad asks which other accelerator programs you’ve applied to, when and what outcome you got. Seems nosy and some people said they’d simply answer no, because it’s none of their business. I.e. Their only concern should be your application with them and what applicant would risk ruining their chances by admitting they looked elsewhere? What do you think?
It obviously helps them to make a more informed decision (just like the CC companies look up your credit history to know how many other cards you've applied for). You can take the chance of not putting in there but I don't see why they shouldn't ask a question that increases their chance of investment success.
OTOH as you said its a dumb question since there's no way that they're able to find out anyways if you're telling the truth.
By that token, it can also send a negative signal to applicant, indicating that they cannot independently assess whether or not to accept your company. In looking for signal from other accelerators, that shows lemming behaviour, no?
Its only one of many signals in the application so not really. It can actually be used as a positive signal - i.e. if you said you applied to a less well known accelerator and got in but you decided its not for you, it might be a way to shine.
They're looking for a better deal and trying to see if you're desperate. The correct answer is "N/A."
Accelerators are just shake out programs for VCs. All the accelerators know each other and/or share judges, mentors, board members. Most of their selection criteria is about the same. They just want to get to "no" as fast as possible without too much effort.