Entrepreneurship

For those looking to start their own business — whether you’re still in high school or contemplating a career change at 50 — Delaware has plenty of helpful funding sources, pitch competitions and other resources available. Here is a list of some of the most important.   

Delaware SBDC
delawaresbdc.org 

This nationally accredited, statewide program provides entrepreneurs with training and one-on-one consulting from business experts at no cost, including advice on how to start a business in the first place. 

The Encouraging Development, Growth & Expansion (EDGE) Grant Program 
business.delaware.gov/edge 

EDGE is a competition for grant funding run by the State of Delaware. There are two rounds each year — one in February and one in August — with funding up to $100,000 on the table. 

Junior Achievement of Delaware 
delaware.ja.org/programs 

The JA Be Entrepreneurial programs teach high schoolers business planning, creative problem solving and other crucial skills to prepare for launching a successful business. 

SCORE Delaware 
score.org/delaware 

Find a mentor, take a workshop or take the Startup Roadmap online course to get your business off the ground.  

Startup302 
startup302.org 

This startup competition is geared specifically toward underrepresented founders and Delaware growth industries such as fintech and clean energy.  

West End Neighborhood House 
westendnh.org/programs/launcher 

The Launcher program helps teens with a passion turn it into a thriving business. Read success stories at delawarebusinesstimes.com/news/teen-entrepreneurs-talk.

Bonus: College-based Programs 

All of Delaware’s major colleges and universities offer classes with an entrepreneurial focus, pitch competitions, accelerator spaces and other ways to support those looking to start a business. Learn more on their websites: