Wilmington, Delaware, has long been a hub for business and innovation. For aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, the city offers a wealth of resources designed to foster growth and success. Here’s an overview of some key organizations and programs available:
Emerging Enterprise Center (EEC)
Located on the Wilmington Riverfront, the EEC provides startups with affordable office and co-working spaces, fully equipped conference rooms, mentorship, business education, and access to a robust network of local businesses and resources. Since its inception, the EEC has supported over 85 companies, helping them generate more than $187 million in revenue and create over 1,000 jobs. Learn more about the EEC.
Wilmington Alliance
The Wilmington Alliance collaborates with various partners to support entrepreneurs and small business owners. Initiatives include the Wilmington Kitchen Collective, which offers low-cost commercial kitchen space for culinary entrepreneurs, and WilmingtonMADE, a program providing training, individualized coaching, and business development services. These efforts aim to help businesses transition from informal to formal operations and achieve sustainable growth. Discover more about Wilmington Alliance’s programs.
City of Wilmington’s Office of Economic Development
The Office of Economic Development is dedicated to promoting a diversified local economy by supporting various industries and initiating programs to increase job opportunities for residents. The office assists small, minority, and women-owned businesses through training and technical assistance programs designed to facilitate greater access to the public and private marketplace. Explore the Office of Economic Development.
Grow Wilmington Fund
In partnership with the Grow America Fund, the City of Wilmington offers the Grow Wilmington Fund, providing small and medium-sized businesses with longer loan terms and below-market interest rates. This initiative aims to help businesses stretch their cash flow and save on monthly payments, facilitating growth and expansion. Find out more about the Grow Wilmington Fund.
State Incentives and Credits
The Delaware Division of Small Business offers various incentives and tax credits to support businesses at different stages. Programs like the EDGE Grant Competition provide funding to help young Delaware small businesses grow and scale. Additionally, the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) aims to provide access to capital for small and early-stage businesses, particularly those in underserved areas. Learn about state incentives and credits.
By leveraging these resources, entrepreneurs in Wilmington can access the support and opportunities needed to launch and grow their businesses successfully.