Small Business Grants in Delaware
Delaware's status as a corporate registration hub means it hosts the legal entities of thousands of businesses worldwide, but the state also has an active local small business community in Wilmington, Dover, and the resort areas. The Delaware Division of Small Business and the Delaware SBDC are the primary resources for grants.
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Delaware's Small Business Economy
Delaware's key industries include financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism. Grant programs are often tailored to these sectors, meaning businesses in these industries tend to qualify for more opportunities — and face less competition for state-specific awards than for purely federal programs.
Top Grants Available to Delaware Businesses
These are nationwide programs with no state restrictions. Delaware businesses qualify for all of them.
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
U.S. Small Business Administration
Federal funding for small businesses engaged in research and development with potential for commercialization. Phase I up to $275K, Phase II up to $1.75M.
Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)
U.S. Small Business Administration
Similar to SBIR but requires partnership with a university or research institution. Strong for commercializing academic research.
Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)
USDA Rural Development
Grants for rural businesses and cooperatives to improve economic conditions. Targets businesses in rural areas (populations under 50,000).
EDA Build to Scale Program
Economic Development Administration
Supports organizations that accelerate the development of regional innovation economies by building a pipeline of scalable companies.
Minority Business Development Agency Grants
U.S. Department of Commerce - MBDA
Supports minority-owned businesses through business centers, capital access programs, and federal contracts.
SBA Community Navigator Pilot Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Provides access to SBA resources and capital for underserved small businesses including minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses.
DOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
U.S. Department of Transportation
Certification program that provides access to federally funded transportation contracts. DBE certification opens doors to set-aside contracts.
IFundWomen General Grant
IFundWomen
Ongoing grants and coaching for women-owned businesses. IFundWomen partners with major brands to fund women entrepreneurs.
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In addition to federal grants, Delaware has state-specific programs worth exploring.
Delaware Division of Small Business
Administers Delaware's primary small business programs including the Small Business Innovation Fund, procurement assistance, and various business development resources.
Delaware SBDC
The Delaware SBDC offers free consulting and grant research at centers across the state.
Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO)
Provides strategic business development support, connection to federal programs, and administers various job creation incentives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there grants specifically for Delaware businesses?▼
Yes — Delaware has state-specific programs including Delaware Division of Small Business, Delaware SBDC, Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO). In addition to the federal grants above, our report includes guidance on finding and applying to Delaware-specific programs.
Are there grants for Wilmington small businesses?▼
Wilmington has programs through the Wilmington Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO) and various CDFI programs. The First State Community Loan Fund is a key resource for Wilmington small businesses.
Does Delaware have grants for agricultural businesses?▼
Delaware's agricultural sector is significant for its size, with strong USDA Rural Development activity, the Delaware Department of Agriculture programs, and specialty support for Delaware's poultry and soybean industries.
Are there Delaware grants for minority-owned businesses?▼
Delaware has MBE certification through the Division of Small Business, and the Statewide Minority Business Enterprise Program connects certified businesses to state contracting and grant opportunities.
Do I have to pay back a grant?▼
No — grants are free money that does not need to be repaid. Unlike loans, grants are awarded outright for qualifying business activities. Some grants have reporting requirements (spending documentation) but no repayment obligation.
How long does it take to receive grant money?▼
It depends on the grant. After approval, most federal grants disburse within 30-90 days. State grants vary. Some private grants (like Hello Alice and Amber Grant) can move faster. Our report identifies the fastest grants to apply for.
What if I don't have any certifications?▼
Many top grants are open to all small businesses regardless of certifications. That said, certifications like WOSB, VOSB, or MBE can dramatically increase the number of grants you qualify for. Our report includes a certification roadmap if you qualify.
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