Finding funding for your small business often poses challenges, but Delaware small business grants provide a great opportunity to secure financial support without repayment obligations. Whether you're launching a startup, expanding operations, or supporting an underserved community, there are various grant programs available!
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Delaware grants for small businesses, including state and private funding options. We’ll also cover eligibility requirements and how to apply, helping you take advantage of these opportunities to grow your business successfully.
Top Delaware Small Business Grants For Your Business
Looking for a financial boost for your Delaware business? These state of Delaware small business grants can help you grow, hire more people, or cover essential costs without adding extra financial stress.
EDGE Grant Competition
The Encouraging Development, Growth & Expansion (EDGE) Grant Competition, administered by the Delaware Division of Small Business, offers grants to early-stage businesses demonstrating innovative plans for growth.
The program provides grants in two categories:
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STEM Class: Grants up to $100,000 for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-based companies.
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Entrepreneur Class: Grants up to $50,000 for non-STEM businesses.
These grants are awarded on a competitive basis, with applications typically accepted twice a year.
Amber Grant for Women
The Amber Grant, offered by WomensNet, provides monthly grants of $10,000 to female entrepreneurs across the United States, including Delaware.
At the end of each year, an additional $25,000 grant is awarded to one of the monthly recipients. This program is one of the most accessible business grants for women, helping women-owned businesses across various industries secure funding to launch or grow their ventures.
Delaware Capital Access Program (DCAP)
DCAP is designed to help small businesses that may have difficulty obtaining traditional financing. The program provides portfolio insurance to participating lenders, encouraging them to extend credit to small businesses. Eligible businesses can use the funds for various purposes, including working capital and equipment purchases.
Workforce Training Grant
Offered by the Delaware Division of Small Business, the Workforce Training Grant is a matching program that funds specialized training for companies, providing up to $100,000 per project. The training can be used to raise the skill level of existing employees, enhancing business productivity and competitiveness.
Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EEIF)
Managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the EEIF provides grants to businesses making investments in energy efficiency projects. This program aims to help businesses reduce energy consumption and operational costs.
Modernization Investment Support Initiative (MISI)
The Modernization Investment Support Initiative (MISI) helps Delaware small businesses upgrade technology, equipment, and infrastructure. This grant supports businesses aiming to improve efficiency, boost productivity, or stay competitive. Eligible businesses must show how their upgrades will drive growth or create jobs.
Freed Fellowship Grant
The Freed Fellowship Grant awards $500 each month to a small business owner, with a chance to win a $2,500 annual grant. Open to Delaware entrepreneurs, this grant is designed to support business growth and provide access to mentorship and networking opportunities.
These programs represent some of the key grant opportunities available to small businesses in Delaware. It's essential for business owners to carefully review eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each program to maximize their chances of securing funding.
Who Qualifies for Delaware Small Business Grants
When it comes to small business grants, Delaware offers many options. However, not every business is eligible for grants, so it’s important to know if you qualify before applying. Most Delaware small business grants have specific requirements based on factors like industry, business size, and ownership. Here’s what grant providers typically look for:
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Delaware-Based Businesses – Most grants require your business to be registered and operating in the state.
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Startups and Growing Businesses – Some programs focus on helping new businesses get off the ground, while others support existing businesses looking to expand.
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Minority, Women, and Veteran-Owned Businesses – Many grants aim to support underrepresented entrepreneurs, offering funding specifically for minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses.
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Industry-Specific Businesses – Certain grants are available only to businesses in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, agriculture, or sustainability.
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Job Creation and Economic Impact – Some grants prioritize businesses that will create jobs or contribute to the local economy in meaningful ways.
Before applying, carefully review the eligibility criteria for Delaware small business grants to ensure your business meets the requirements.
How to Apply for Delaware Small Business Grants
Applying for Delaware small business grants takes preparation and attention to detail. While each grant has its own process, most follow a similar application structure. Here’s how to improve your chances of securing funding:
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Research Available Grants – Look for programs that align with your industry, business size, and funding needs. Check state websites, local business organizations, and private grant opportunities.
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Review Eligibility Requirements – Make sure your business meets the qualifications before applying. Pay attention to factors like location, industry focus, and ownership type.
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Prepare Key Documents – Most Delaware small business grants require a solid business plan, financial statements, tax records, and proof of business registration. Some may also ask for a proposal outlining how you’ll use the funds.
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Submit a Strong Application – Fill out the application carefully, providing clear and detailed responses. Highlight how your business contributes to the local economy and why it deserves funding.
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Meet All Deadlines – Many grants have strict deadlines, and missing them can mean waiting another year to apply. Mark important dates and submit everything on time.
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Follow Up – After applying, check in with the grant provider if possible. Some programs offer feedback or additional opportunities if your application isn’t selected.
By staying organized and submitting a compelling application, you can increase your chances of securing funding to grow your business.
Other Funding Options for Delaware Small Businesses
Grants are great because they don’t require repayment, but they’re also competitive and often limited. If you don’t qualify for a grant or need faster, more flexible access to capital, small business financing can be a solid alternative.
Unlike grants, small business loans require repayment, but they offer quick access to capital without long wait times or strict requirements, which can help you keep moving forward. Here are some options to consider:
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Small Business Loans
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Revenue Advance
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Line of Credit
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SBA Loan
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Term Loan
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Accounts Receivable Financing
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Invoice Factoring
Whether you're launching, scaling, or covering unexpected expenses, exploring different small business funding options can help you find the right fit when grant funding isn’t available.
