By Andrea Wojcik, Director of Communications, Delaware Division of Small Business

It’s important for businesses to support each other. Collaboration and mutual support create a positive effect that fosters growth, innovation and sustainability.

Similarly, the Division of Small Business (DSB), a state agency within Delaware’s Department of State, is also a resource for small business owners. We are committed to helping you start and grow.

Here are some of the ways DSB can support your small business. All of our services are free.

1. Business Support: Our regional business managers are the front-line staff working directly with business owners. The managers provide owners with someone they can direct all of their business-related questions to. If they don’t know the answer, they can connect you with the right person who can. Our dedicated team will meet you where you are and remain connected to you throughout the life of your small business journey.

There is one business manager each for Kent and Sussex counties, and two for New Castle County – one for the southern half and another for the northern half and city of Wilmington. Find yours at business.delaware.gov/#resource-managers.

2. Resources: Don’t know where to start? Don’t know what permits you need, or having trouble getting them signed off? We can help. Need a business plan or business license? Sadly, we don’t do everything, but we have nearly 100 resource partners that can help too.

We also provide information on funding opportunities, assistance programs and training webinars to help you navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business. Sign up for our weekly newsletter at business.delaware.gov to receive regular updates.

3. Financial Assistance Programs: We know that access to funding is one of the biggest needs for small business owners, especially start-ups. DSB operates and supports several funding initiatives of which small business owners can take advantage. These programs include the EDGE competition, which is DSB’s flagship funding program, workforce training grants and grants to help applied technology businesses fill a funding gap between federal programs. Visit business.delaware.gov/incentives to learn more about these and other programs.

We also have a new program that helps small business owners obtain low-interest loans. Learn more about this unique initiative at de.gov/ssbci.

4. Certification and Contracting Opportunities: The state’s Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD) and the Delaware Tourism Office fall under the division’s organizational structure. Through OSD, DSB assists women, minority, veteran or individuals with disabilities-owned businesses with obtaining certifications that enhance their eligibility for government contracting opportunities. Learn more at business.delaware.gov/osd.

Conclusion

The Division of Small Business is pleased to be a key resource for small business owners by providing a comprehensive suite of programs and services to support their needs. We enjoy empowering small businesses to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and contribute to the overall prosperity of the state. Learn more at business.delaware.gov.