You can access several targeted grant programs in Delaware designed to boost your small business growth, especially if you’re in STEM fields or belong to an underrepresented group. The EDGE Grants offer up to $100,000 for STEM companies and $50,000 for others, but you’ll need matching funds.
Additionally, specialized grants like Antares REACH provide financial support plus mentorship for entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented communities. Exploring these options can position you for both capital and guidance—but understanding their nuances is key.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware’s EDGE Grant program awards up to $100,000 for STEM businesses and $50,000 for non-STEM, requiring a $3 state-to-$1 business match.
- The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) offers loans and direct investments, with $14 million targeted for small businesses by end of 2025.
- Antares REACH Grant provides $20,000 plus mentorship for businesses majority-owned by historically underrepresented groups[BACKGROUND].
- Delaware offers specialized grants and support programs for women entrepreneurs, including Amber Grant and Kiva Delaware microloans[BACKGROUND].
- Multiple state funding programs support innovation, including refundable R&D tax credits equal to 50% of the federal credit with no cap[BACKGROUND].
Overview of EDGE Grants for Delaware Small Businesses
EDGE Grants offer Delaware small businesses a competitive opportunity to secure significant funding, with STEM-based companies eligible for up to $100,000 and non-STEM Entrepreneur Class businesses up to $50,000.
These small business grants require a $3 state-to-$1 business matching fund, encouraging partnership between the state and applicants. EDGE Grants require businesses to match every $3 of state funds with $1 of their own investment.
Each application round awards up to 10 grants, split evenly between STEM and non-STEM businesses, via a competitive process managed by the Delaware Division of Small Business.
EDGE Grants began in 2019 and are funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, ensuring equal and nondiscriminatory access to monetary aid. Special consideration is often extended to businesses that uplift disabled folks, helping drive inclusive innovation across Delaware.
Antares REACH Grant Program Details and Eligibility
You’ll want to confirm your business meets the Antares REACH Grant eligibility, which requires majority ownership by historically underrepresented groups and a demonstrated need for growth funding.
The application process involves submitting detailed business information and completing a Business Health Score assessment.
Priority is often given to businesses in essential sectors like housing services and health services, reflecting their community impact. Winning the grant provides $20,000 in unrestricted capital plus access to mentorship, coaching, and community resources to help scale your business effectively.
Grant Eligibility Criteria
The Antares REACH Grant Program requires businesses to be for-profit entities majority-owned (51% or more) by individuals from historically underrepresented groups, including womxn, people of color, military-affiliated persons, those with disabilities, or LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
To be eligible, your business must demonstrate growth potential with a solid business plan aligned to the grant’s goals. You also need to meet specific financial criteria and show how you’ll use funds effectively for eligible expenses.
Collaborating with partners to maximize impact within your community is encouraged, as the program supports sustainability throughout various market cycles.
Application and Benefits
Although you may think applying will be complicated, the Antares REACH Grant Program streamlines the application process through an online portal where you create an account, complete a concise application form, and submit it before the deadline.
As a small business owner, you’ll benefit from grants per application round, typically $20,000, aimed at fueling growth. The program emphasizes private equity-backed middle-market companies and underrepresented entrepreneurs, requiring demonstrated funding needs and a scalable business model.
The grant is also inclusive of mission-driven organizations like churches and social enterprises led by ex-felons, helping expand opportunities for historically overlooked groups. Besides funding, you gain access to mentorship, peer networks, and market-cycle collaboration to guarantee your business thrives sustainably.
Life Science and Biotech Funding Opportunities in Delaware
Because Delaware invests heavily in fostering innovation, life science and biotech startups can tap into multiple funding avenues tailored to accelerate research and commercialization.
Delaware offers life science and biotech startups multiple specialized funding programs to accelerate innovation and commercialization.
You can utilize the EDGE Grants program, which provides up to $100,000 for STEM-based companies, including many in life sciences.
The Delaware Biotech Institute offers the CAT Grant, supporting applied research, technology access, and entrepreneurial proof-of-concept initiatives.
Additionally, Delaware’s refundable R&D tax credit equals 50% of the federal credit with no cap, making it a strategic location to invest in research and development.
These programs create a robust ecosystem for your biotech business.
Venture Capital and Angel Investor Networks in Delaware
You can tap into several angel investor groups and early-stage venture capital networks that support Delaware startups.
These include regional organizations like the Philadelphia Angel Network, Keiretsu Forum, and Osage Venture Partners, which focus on B2B software and strategic partnerships.
Programs like Robin Hood Ventures and Mid-Atlantic Diamond Ventures provide both capital and hands-on mentorship to help tech companies grow.
Angel Investor Groups
Several angel investor groups actively support startups and early-stage companies in Delaware by providing capital, mentorship, and strategic connections.
The Keiretsu Forum builds strategic partnerships among investors and entrepreneurs.
Philadelphia Angel Network fosters collaboration across Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Robin Hood Ventures offers capital and mentoring in the Greater Philadelphia area, including Delaware.
Osage Venture Partners focuses on early-stage B2B software companies along the East Coast, delivering essential support.
Mid-Atlantic Diamond Ventures helps Delaware tech firms secure funding and boost business value through coaching and mentorship.
These angel investors play a crucial role in Delaware’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Early-Stage Venture Capital
While Delaware’s angel investor networks provide essential early-stage support, venture capital firms play a critical role in scaling startups by offering larger funding rounds and strategic guidance.
You’ll find firms like Osage Venture Partners focusing on early-stage B2B software companies, and Mid-Atlantic Diamond Ventures enhancing technology firms through funding and business coaching.
Keiretsu Forum and Robin Hood Ventures connect investors with entrepreneurs to foster partnerships.
Bronze Valley targets under-resourced entrepreneurs with holistic venture solutions.
These early-stage venture capital resources help business grant recipients scale effectively by combining capital infusion with mentorship and strategic business development.
Tax Incentives for Research & Development in Delaware
Because Delaware offers a unique refundable R&D tax credit equal to 50% of the federal credit with no expenditure cap, businesses engaged in research and development can significantly improve their cash flow and reduce tax liabilities.
This zero-expenditure cap lets you claim the full credit amount, enhancing its value especially for startups and established companies. The refundable nature means you can receive the credit even if your tax liability is low, directly boosting your finances.
These tax incentives encourage you to invest confidently in innovation, helping Delaware foster economic growth and create jobs through advanced technology development.
Entrepreneurial Support and Mentorship Resources
You can strengthen your business through mentorship and coaching from organizations like Leading Edge Ventures and Delaware SCORE, which provide both guidance and skill-building workshops.
Funding access networks such as Delaware’s EDGE Grant and SSBCI programs connect you with capital tailored for startups and small businesses.
Plus, business planning support is available through partnerships with the Small Business Development Center and local networks, helping you overcome operational challenges and scale effectively.
Mentorship and Coaching
Access to mentorship and coaching is an essential component of entrepreneurial support in Delaware, empowering small business owners to navigate challenges and accelerate growth.
Leading Edge Ventures and Originate Ventures provide mentorship that goes beyond funding, helping you improve your business strategies and overcome obstacles.
The Women’s Business Center offers tailored training and networking, especially for women entrepreneurs focusing on planning and marketing.
Delaware SCORE delivers personalized mentorship from experienced professionals at a dedicated Wilmington location.
Additionally, organizations like Kiva Delaware and True Access Capital combine capital access with educational resources and coaching to strengthen your business foundation.
Funding Access Networks
Funding Access Networks play a pivotal role in connecting Delaware entrepreneurs with investors, financial resources, and strategic guidance to scale their businesses.
Networks like Keiretsu Forum and Philadelphia Angel Network foster collaboration and investment opportunities tailored to small businesses.
Leading Edge Ventures and Originate Ventures combine funding access with mentorship to help you tackle challenges strategically.
The Women’s Business Center offers specialized training and capital access for women entrepreneurs, while Delaware SCORE provides free mentoring and workshops for business planning, financial literacy, and marketing.
True Access Capital partners with financial institutions to increase your funding access through education and resources.
Business Planning Support
While building your business plan, leveraging mentorship and specialized support can dramatically improve your chances of success.
Organizations like Delaware SCORE and the Small Business Development Center of Delaware offer valuable business resources and personalized guidance to help you refine your application and plan.
Women entrepreneurs can access tailored training through the Women’s Business Center in Wilmington, focusing on planning, financing, and marketing.
Investors such as Leading Edge Ventures and Originate Ventures provide mentorship beyond funding to navigate challenges.
True Access Capital collaborates with financial institutions to boost your financial literacy and improve capital access, strengthening your business foundation.
Grants and Funding Specifically for Women Entrepreneurs
Because women entrepreneurs often face distinct challenges in business, Delaware offers targeted grants and resources to support their growth and success.
Delaware provides tailored grants and resources addressing women entrepreneurs’ unique business challenges.
You can compete for Grants through a competitive process like the Amber Grant, which awards three $10,000 monthly grants to women business owners nationwide, plus a $25,000 year-end prize.
The Women’s Business Center in Wilmington provides specialized training in business planning, financing, and marketing to help you build your enterprise.
Delaware SCORE mentors women entrepreneurs, while Kiva Delaware helps secure crowdfunding capital.
You’ll also find valuable networking and resources through the National Association of Women Business Owners in Delaware.
Community-Based Competitions and Pitch Events
Community-based competitions and pitch events in Delaware offer dynamic opportunities for startups and small businesses to gain funding, mentorship, and exposure.
These events create a supportive ecosystem that fuels innovation and growth. Examples include:
- The Startup 302 Pitch Competition, which provides prize awards and visibility across technology sectors, promoting entrepreneurship statewide.
- Swim With The Sharks, focused on for-profit businesses under five years old in New Castle County, helping early-stage companies showcase ideas.
- The Female Business Founders Pitch Competition, awarding cash prizes to women-led startups, emphasizing diversity and empowerment.
Such community-based competitions help small businesses access capital and foster valuable networking opportunities.
Access to Capital Programs and Loan Options
Delaware offers several access to capital programs and loan options designed to help small businesses secure funding and grow.
The EDGE Grants provide up to $100,000 for STEM-based businesses and $50,000 for others, through a competitive process. Programs like Kiva Delaware offer community-backed microloans, while True Access Capital supports entrepreneurs with education and funding opportunities.
The Delaware Small Business Development Center helps with loan applications and lender connections. SBA-backed loans reduce lender risk, making it easier for small businesses to obtain financing.
These combined resources guarantee robust support for your business growth in Delaware.
Upcoming Grant Deadlines and Application Tips
What upcoming grant deadlines should you watch for? If you’re a business in Delaware, focus on key application rounds to secure funding and meet eligibility criteria.
- Early-Stage Tech Startups pitch event on 09/26/25 offers seed funding for innovative projects.
- Occupational Health and Safety grant requires a letter of intent by 09/17/25 and full application by 12/12/25.
- Fishing Industry Innovations grant deadline is 09/24/25, while neurological disorder research accepts applications through 09/29/25 for nonprofits and for-profits.
Researching top prospects and tailoring your application to grant requirements will boost your chances in this competitive funding landscape.
Notable Success Stories and Impact of Delaware Grants
Grant programs have empowered numerous small businesses in Delaware to achieve significant growth and innovation.
The EDGE Grants stand out by providing up to $100,000 for STEM-based companies and $50,000 for others, fueling expansion and competitiveness. These funds have assisted businesses in acquiring critical equipment, developing facilities, and enhancing marketing efforts.
Alongside EDGE, other grants like the Amber Grant and Delaware Biotech Institute CAT Grant have supported women entrepreneurs and life science startups, respectively.
Together, these grants foster a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving sustainable growth and reinforcing Delaware’s commitment to diverse business success across sectors.
| Alabama | Innovate Alabama, local recovery and Main Street grants for equipment, hiring, and expansion with rolling deadlines. |
| Alaska | Rural, tourism, and community funds. Strong picks for fisheries, artisans, and service firms needing startup or growth capital. |
| Arizona | State/city programs for innovation, workforce, export growth. Good for tech, retail, food, and manufacturing upgrades. |
| Arkansas | Seed and expansion grants, rural aid, and industry funds for manufacturers, agri-business, and local services. |
| California | Robust statewide/city grants for tech, clean energy, creative, and neighborhood retail. Mix of cash and technical help. |
| Colorado | Advanced industries, startup, and rural revitalization grants. Ideal for outdoor, tourism, and innovation-led firms. |
| Connecticut | Manufacturing, bioscience, and main-street awards. Matching grants for equipment, R&D, export, and upskilling. |
| Florida | Tourism, disaster recovery, and minority-owned business grants. City programs fund façades and equipment purchases. |
| Georgia | State/local awards for manufacturing, film/creative, agribusiness, logistics—often paired with training and export aid. |
| Hawaii | Diversification, food/ag, and innovation grants. Helpful for island startups expanding products or e-commerce reach. |
| Idaho | Rural and manufacturing grants, innovation vouchers, and community funds for equipment and workforce needs. |
| Illinois | Neighborhood recovery, innovation, and tourism grants. Strong for storefront buildouts and job-creating expansions. |
| Indiana | Manufacturing readiness, R&D, and rural revitalization awards supporting tech adoption, hiring, and capital upgrades. |
| Iowa | Main Street, value-added ag, and innovation funds backing equipment, prototyping, and downtown improvements. |
| Kansas | Rural opportunity and entrepreneurship support. Useful for manufacturing, ag-processing, and scaling services. |
| Kentucky | Innovation, workforce, and site development grants. Incentives favor equipment upgrades, exporting, and new jobs. |
| Louisiana | Small Business Assistance, film/digital media, and disaster recovery grants for food, culture, and coastal firms. |
| Maine | Rural, marine, and outdoor sector grants plus innovation vouchers for producers, tourism operators, and makerspaces. |
| Maryland | Bio/tech, cyber, and manufacturing grants, plus neighborhood and façade funds for retail and food businesses. |
| Massachusetts | Life sciences, innovation, and strong main-street programs. Grants assist buildouts, R&D, and training reimbursements. |
| Michigan | Manufacturing, mobility, and community development grants for site work, tech adoption, and hiring plans. |
| Minnesota | DEED grants, innovation vouchers, and corridor revitalization for startups and shops upgrading equipment or space. |
| Mississippi | Site development, minority business, and rural aid targeting job growth, storefront work, and machinery costs. |
| Missouri | Community grants, innovation funds, and export support. Good for manufacturers, food producers, and retail growth. |
| Montana | Tourism and rural aid plus Big Sky economic grants. Helps with equipment, marketing, and seasonal hiring needs. |
| Nebraska | Prototype, microenterprise, and site grants for ag-tech, manufacturing, and main-street redevelopment projects. |
| Nevada | Tourism, tech, and retail grants with workforce ties. Local programs fund façades, equipment, and energy upgrades. |
| New Hampshire | Manufacturing and innovation awards plus downtown grants for prototyping, expansion, and job-training offsets. |
| New Jersey | NJEDA grants, capital improvements, and main-street funds prioritizing buildouts, hiring, and recovery needs. |
| New Mexico | Rural, film/creative, and tech-transfer grants. Helps with equipment, space buildouts, and commercialization steps. |
| New York | State/city grants for manufacturing, arts, and neighborhood retail—support for rent buildouts, equipment, and hiring. |
| North Carolina | Rural development, manufacturing, and innovation grants often paired with training and export vouchers for growth. |
| North Dakota | Energy, ag-processing, and rural grants covering equipment, site prep, and early-stage commercialization work. |
| Ohio | Manufacturing, minority business, and research grants. Community programs support façades and downtown revitalization. |
| Oklahoma | Rural and innovation grants focused on energy, aerospace, and ag. Great for equipment and job-creation incentives. |
| Oregon | Business Oregon grants for manufacturing, cleantech, and community commerce—buildouts and sustainable upgrades. |
| Pennsylvania | Innovation, manufacturing, and Main Street grants supporting equipment, site work, and job-creating projects. |
| Rhode Island | Commerce RI grants for storefronts, tourism, and innovation. Useful for retail, makers, and food businesses expanding. |
| South Carolina | Manufacturing, rural, and tourism grants funding machinery, workforce training, and corridor revitalization projects. |
| South Dakota | Rural development and value-added ag grants plus community funds for equipment, marketing, and expansion plans. |
| Tennessee | Innovation, site readiness, and main-street programs for manufacturers, food producers, and retail buildouts. |
| Texas | State/city grants for manufacturing, tech, and creative firms—often tied to job creation and capital investment. |
| Utah | Rural co-op, innovation, and tourism grants backing equipment, hiring, and export-readiness for growing companies. |
| Vermont | Community and working-lands grants for makers, farms, and tourism—funds for buildouts, machinery, and markets. |
| Virginia | Manufacturing, tech, and downtown revitalization grants assisting site work, equipment, and training offsets. |
| Washington | Innovation, clean tech, and small-town commerce grants supporting buildouts, energy upgrades, and export efforts. |
| West Virginia | Rural and corridor redevelopment grants with manufacturing focus for equipment, property rehab, and hiring plans. |
| Wisconsin | WEDC grants for manufacturing, startups, and main-street projects—storefronts, machinery, and workforce training. |
| Wyoming | Innovation and tourism grants plus rural aid for equipment, site improvements, and early-stage commercialization. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Soon After Application Can Funds Be Expected if Awarded?
If awarded, you can typically expect funding disbursement within a few weeks after the application timeline closes and winners are announced, though exact timing varies by program and grant cycle in Delaware. Planning for about 2-4 weeks is common.
Are Multiple Grants Allowed for the Same Business Over Time?
You can receive multiple grants over time if your business meets ongoing grant eligibility criteria and funding source rules. Each grant application is competitive and assessed independently, so repeated awards depend on your continued qualification and available funds.
Can Grant Money Be Used for Employee Salaries or Benefits?
You can use grant money for employee compensation, including salaries and benefits, if the grant’s eligibility criteria explicitly allow it. Always review specific grant guidelines to guarantee compliance with employee compensation rules.
What Reporting or Accountability Is Required From Grant Recipients?
You must meet specific reporting requirements by submitting receipts and documentation equal to your grant amount, along with tax returns and a CPA-certified revenue decrease letter if applicable. Failure triggers accountability measures like repayment or loan conversion.
Is There Assistance Available for Businesses Without Accounting Expertise?
Yes, you can get assistance to improve your financial literacy and grant management skills, often through Delaware’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and related programs that provide coaching and technical support for grant recipients without accounting expertise.
Conclusion
If you don’t jump on Delaware’s small business grants now, you’ll be missing out on a funding bonanza that practically showers you with up to $100,000 for STEM ventures and $50,000 for others, plus mentorship and community support that can rocket your business into the stratosphere. The state’s dedication to pumping $14 million into entrepreneurs means doors are wide open, but they won’t stay that way—act decisively, or you risk losing a game-changing advantage in a fiercely competitive market.