Small Business Grants in Delaware (DE)

Securing a small business grant in Delaware involves identifying the right opportunities, understanding the eligibility criteria, and preparing a compelling application. Here are some of the most relevant opportunities for small businesses in Delaware:

EDGE Grants
The Division of Small Business in Delaware awards EDGE (Encouraging Development, Growth & Expansion) Grants through a competitive selection process. Five STEM-based companies can each receive up to $100,000 for eligible expenses, while five Entrepreneur Class (non-STEM) businesses can each get up to $50,000. The funds are provided as a $3 (state) to $1 (business) match. The grant funding must be used to expand a business’s viability and sustainability. Applications are judged by a panel of experts, and the application period for the first round of EDGE in 2024 will open on February 1.

Monthly Funding Opportunities
The Division of Small Business publishes a list of funding opportunities available to small businesses in Delaware each month. The list includes grants and competitions provided by local, state, and national organizations.

Small Business Grants Fair
The Delaware Small Business Development Center and Delaware Business Times present a Small Business Grants Fair. This event allows businesses to connect with resource organizations and learn about available Delaware Grants.

DE Relief Grants
These grants provided Delaware small businesses and nonprofits with funds to cover expenses and provide relief related to COVID-19. The nearly $200 million program was a joint initiative from the State and New Castle County.

Amber Grants for Women
This program gives away three $10,000 small business grants every month. Business women from Delaware are eligible to win these grants. Winners are automatically finalists for one of the three $25,000 year-end Amber Grants.

State Small Business Credit Initiative
Delaware approved $60.9 million under the State Small Business Credit Initiative to support small businesses and entrepreneurship. This initiative provides loans, supports underserved entrepreneurs, and provides seed capital for startups.

Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) Grants
The DCF awards millions of dollars in grants to support the work of nonprofits addressing Delaware’s challenges. Nonprofits are invited to apply for the grant opportunities, including the DCF’s Community Impact Grants.

To secure a grant, you should first identify the grants that are most relevant to your business. Then, understand the eligibility criteria and application process for each grant. Prepare a compelling application that clearly demonstrates how your business meets the criteria and how the grant will help your business grow. It may be beneficial to seek assistance from a business advisor or grant writing expert to ensure your application is as strong as possible.