Business Grants and Resources for Single Mothers in Delaware
Business Startup, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship Assistance and Grants for Single Mothers in Delaware
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help you can use today
- If you are in a financial or housing crisis and need fast referrals: Call 211 or 1-800-560-3372; text your ZIP code to 898-211; or use live chat at Delaware 211. Hours are Monday–Friday 8 am–9 pm. Delaware 211 contact page. (delaware211.org)
- If you need to talk to a state small business expert this week: Call the Delaware Division of Small Business Dover office (302) 739-4271 or Wilmington office (302) 577-8477 to be connected to a Regional Business Manager for your county at no cost. DSB contact page. (business.delaware.gov)
- If you need a zero‑interest microloan for inventory or equipment: Apply for a Kiva Delaware loan up to $15,000 at 0% with terms up to 36 months; local support is available through Wilmington Alliance (302) 219-4629. Apply for a Kiva U.S. loan and see the Wilmington Alliance Kiva page. (kiva.org, wilmingtonalliance.org)
- If you want to apply for a state grant or financing: Review Delaware’s EDGE 2.0 competition and SSBCI loan programs; speak with a DSB Regional Business Manager via business@delaware.gov or the numbers above. EDGE 2.0 announcement and SSBCI program hub. (news.delaware.gov, business.delaware.gov)
- If you need free, practical startup coaching: Contact Delaware SBDC (302) 831-1555 for advising and classes (virtual and in‑person statewide). DSBDC contact. (ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
Quick help box
- Talk to a real person who can triage your situation now: DSB Dover (302) 739-4271; Wilmington (302) 577-8477. Free help connecting you to funding, permits, and partners. Division of Small Business. (business.delaware.gov)
- Zero‑cost startup advising and financial projections: Delaware SBDC (302) 831-1555. DSBDC contact. (ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
- Women‑focused training and capital prep: Women’s Business Center at True Access Capital (302) 652-6774 ext. 127; address 100 W. 10th St., Suite 300, Wilmington. WBC contact and accessibility notice. (trueaccesscapital.org)
- Federal programs and certifications: SBA Delaware District Office (302) 573-6294, 1105 Market St., Wilmington. SBA Delaware district page. (sba.gov)
- Government contracting coaching (free): Delaware APEX Accelerator (302) 831-0781; 591 Collaboration Way, Newark; Georgetown satellite available. APEX contact and locations. (delawareapex.org)
What this guide does differently
- Concrete Delaware amounts, deadlines, phones, and links placed right where you need them.
- Plan B options after every section so you’re not stuck if the first path fails.
- Reality checks about timelines and matching‑fund requirements so you can budget and plan family care time.
- Inclusive resources for LGBTQ+, disabled, veteran, immigrant, tribal, rural families, and single fathers.
This guide follows ASingleMother.org’s editorial standards focusing on official and established nonprofit sources. Editorial Standards.
Start here: fastest path to a decision
- Contact a Regional Business Manager at DSB first: They’ll assess your idea, connect you to funding that fits, and help you avoid paperwork delays. Email business@delaware.gov or call Dover (302) 739-4271 / Wilmington (302) 577-8477. Typical response is quick, and services are free. DSB overview and “What we do”. (business.delaware.gov)
- Register or renew your Delaware business license online: Most new businesses can print a temporary license immediately while the permanent license arrives in roughly 10 business days. Base state license is generally $75 for the first location, with most licenses expiring December 31. Use Delaware One Stop to register. Division of Revenue licensing overview and One Stop registration. (revenue.delaware.gov, onestop.delaware.gov)
- Budget for required state taxes and fees up front: Delaware LLCs owe a flat annual tax of 300∗∗dueby∗∗June1∗∗eachyear;penaltiesformissingthedateadd∗∗300** due by **June 1** each year; penalties for missing the date add **200 plus 1.5% interest per month. Division of Corporations LLC/LP/GP tax instructions. (corp.delaware.gov)
- If you’ll sell to the State of Delaware this year: Register for the free vendor notification service and start monitoring the Bid Solicitation Directory. It’s quick and keeps you in the loop for opportunities. MyMarketplace vendor registration and guide. (mymarketplace.delaware.gov)
Delaware startup steps and typical costs
| Step | What to do | Typical state cost | How to do it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choose entity and registered agent | Decide on sole prop, LLC, or corporation and secure a registered agent address in DE if needed | Varies by agent; state fees apply | Overview and forms at the Division of Corporations |
| Reserve your business name (optional) | Hold a name up to 120 days | $75 | Reserve online via Division of Corporations name reservation page |
| File LLC or corporation | File formation documents; consider expedited service if you’re on a deadline | Filing fee per form; optional expedited fees such as same‑day and next‑day available | See “How to Form a New Business Entity” and “Expedited Services” at the Division of Corporations |
| Get your Delaware business license | Required for most businesses operating in Delaware | Generally $75 for first location; 3‑year option available at 3× the annual fee | Delaware One Stop online |
| Pay annual Delaware LLC tax | Keeps your company in good standing | $300 due by June 1 | Pay online via Division of Corporations |
Sources: Division of Corporations entity and tax pages; Division of Revenue licensing; One Stop registration; Expedited services. (corp.delaware.gov, revenue.delaware.gov, onestop.delaware.gov)
Funding you can realistically access in Delaware
EDGE 2.0 competitive grants
- What it is: Delaware’s flagship small business competition, revamped in July 2025. Entrepreneur and STEM tracks now award flexible, scaled funding; there is no fixed number of winners per round. Total available each round is up to 400,000∗∗forEntrepreneurtrackand∗∗400,000** for Entrepreneur track and **750,000 for STEM track, with pitch finals. Businesses with ≤15 FTEs and < $700,000 in assets are eligible. EDGE 2.0 news release. (news.delaware.gov)
- Typical timeline: Past rounds took roughly four months from application close to awards ceremony. In Spring 2025 DSB selected finalists within about six weeks of closing, then awarded 10 grants (up to 100,000∗∗STEMand∗∗100,000** STEM and **50,000 Entrepreneur under the previous rules). Expect similar overall timing under EDGE 2.0. DSB Spring 2025 awards release. (news.delaware.gov)
- Key requirements to plan for: Startups and businesses under seven years old; majority Delaware location; matching funds (program maintains a strong match expectation); strong pitch and plan. Review the official page and contact DSB early. EDGE program page. (business.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DSB Regional Business Manager to review your scorecard and plug you into SSBCI loans, True Access Capital loans, Kiva, and city/county programs described below. DSB contact and “What we do”. (business.delaware.gov)
State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) financing
- What it is: Delaware’s 60.9million∗∗SSBCIincludestwoloansupports—DelawareLoanParticipationProgram(DELPP)andDelawareCapitalAccessProgram(DCAP)—plustwoequityprogramsfocusedonstartups(DASCPdirectinvestmentsupto∗∗60.9 million** SSBCI includes two loan supports—Delaware Loan Participation Program (DELPP) and Delaware Capital Access Program (DCAP)—plus two equity programs focused on startups (DASCP direct investments up to **1,000,000, and the Early‑Stage VC program launching in 2025). Participating lenders include Del‑One Federal Credit Union, True Access Capital, and Community Bank. SSBCI program hub and June 2025 update. (business.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)
- How it helps single moms: You apply with a partner lender; SSBCI funds reduce lender risk if you lack collateral or have thin credit. DSB prioritizes socially and economically disadvantaged owners for expanded access. SSBCI program hub. (business.delaware.gov)
- Action step: Email Business_Finance@delaware.gov to ask which SSBCI program fits and to get introductions to participating lenders. SSBCI program hub. (business.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for a True Access Capital microloan and consider Kiva while you strengthen collateral and cash flow. Details below. True Access Capital. (trueaccesscapital.org)
True Access Capital loans and WBC coaching
- What it is: A Delaware CDFI offering small business loans from 5,000∗∗to∗∗5,000** to **250,000, SBA 504 fixed‑asset loans up to 5,000,000∗∗(or∗∗5,000,000** (or **5,500,000 for manufacturers/energy), and microloans via its Micro Loan Fund (5,000–5,000–50,000). The Women’s Business Center (WBC) provides training, credit‑readiness, and capital coaching. True Access Capital home, SBA 504 at TAC, and Micro Loan Fund description via Choose Wilmington. (trueaccesscapital.org, choosewilmingtonde.org)
- For women and moms: The WBC runs ongoing workshops in English and Spanish; check the events calendar for financing and business‑plan sessions. WBC events calendar. (wbc.trueaccesscapital.org)
- Special Wilmington benefit: True Access Capital’s Empowerment Fund has combined loans with grants up to $20,000 for entrepreneurs of color located in the City of Wilmington. Ask if current funding is available. Empowerment Fund report. (trueaccesscapital.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for Kiva (0% up to $15,000) to build repayment history, then re‑approach TAC/SSBCI with stronger financials. Kiva U.S.. (kiva.org)
Grow Wilmington Fund (city loan program)
- What it is: City of Wilmington + Grow America Fund loans typically 150,000–150,000–2,500,000 at below‑market fixed rates (formulaed at 7‑year Treasury + 1.67%), long terms (up to 25 years for real estate). No application fee; closing costs can be financed. For established businesses with at least two years in operation. City of Wilmington Grow Wilmington Fund page. (wilmingtonde.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re earlier‑stage or outside Wilmington, focus on True Access Capital microloans, SSBCI, and Kiva. See those sections above. (business.delaware.gov, trueaccesscapital.org, kiva.org)
Kiva Delaware zero‑interest loans
- What it is: Crowdfunded loans at 0% interest up to $15,000 with terms up to 36 months; friendly underwriting that values character and community support. Local help: Wilmington Alliance Kiva team, (302) 219-4629, delaware@local.kiva.org. Kiva U.S. apply and Wilmington Alliance Kiva page. (kiva.org, wilmingtonalliance.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DSBDC to review your profile and marketing plan; many borrowers fund successfully on a second try after revising their story and invite list. DSBDC contact. (ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
Free, high‑value technical assistance
| Organization | What they do | How to reach them |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware SBDC | Free one‑on‑one advising, classes, market research, financial projections | (302) 831-1555; DSBDC contact |
| Women’s Business Center at True Access Capital | Training, coaching, and capital prep for women; English and Spanish sessions | (302) 652-6774 ext. 127; WBC info |
| SBA Delaware District Office | Connects you to SBA programs, lenders, certifications | (302) 573-6294; 1105 Market St., Wilmington; SBA Delaware |
| Delaware APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) | Government contracting coaching, SAM registration, bid matching | (302) 831-0781; APEX contact |
| SCORE Delaware | Free mentoring and workshops | (302) 661-2366; 1105 N. Market St., Wilmington; SCORE Delaware |
Sources: DSBDC; WBC; SBA Delaware; APEX; SCORE Delaware. (ondemand.delawaresbdc.org, trueaccesscapital.org, sba.gov, delawareapex.org, score.org)
Certifications and selling to government
- Get certified to stand out when selling to the State: Delaware’s Office of Supplier Diversity certifies Minority, Women, Veteran, Service‑Disabled Veteran, and Individuals with Disabilities‑Owned firms, and the Small Business Focus program. Certification is free and lasts three years. Apply via the new online portal at de.gov/osd; for help call (302) 577-8477. OSD program contacts and OSD portal FAQ. (business.delaware.gov, osd.delaware.gov)
- Find bid opportunities and get notified: Register for the free vendor subscription and monitor the Bid Solicitation Directory at MyMarketplace. Vendor registration. (mymarketplace.delaware.gov)
- If you’re new to procurement: Work with the Delaware APEX Accelerator for no‑cost support on SAM.gov registration, bid matching, and proposal review. (302) 831-0781. APEX services. (delawareapex.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask OSD to review your application checklist; set a 30‑minute call with APEX to map a 90‑day plan for one state bid, one local bid, and one teaming conversation. OSD portal and APEX contact. (osd.delaware.gov, delawareapex.org)
Training that fits a busy parent schedule
- Women’s Business Center workshops: Regular evening online sessions on access to capital, legal basics, and digital security. WBC events calendar. (wbc.trueaccesscapital.org)
- West End Neighborhood House Launcher Program: A 12‑week training that has helped create or expand hundreds of Delaware businesses; ongoing cohorts statewide with vendor fairs and pitch opportunities. Program overview and impact news and West End Launcher how‑it‑works. (blog.wilmu.edu, westendnh.org)
- Delaware Libraries entrepreneur resources: Free market data tools like Data Axle and SizeUp Delaware; statewide calendar with SBDC office hours in libraries. Libraries Business & Entrepreneurship guides and research tools. (guides.lib.de.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DSBDC to draft a short self‑paced learning plan and see if a mentor can meet during your lunch break or after kids’ bedtime. DSBDC contact. (ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
Reality check on timelines and cash flow
| Item | Typical timing | What to plan for |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware business license | Same day temporary; about 10 business days for the permanent license | Print the temporary license and start operating legally while you wait |
| EDGE competition | About four months from application close to awards | You’ll need matching dollars and a clear spend plan |
| SSBCI loans | Weeks to a few months, depending on lender and collateral | A lender underwrites; DSB funds a portion to de‑risk |
| True Access Capital microloan | A few weeks to a couple months | Be ready with recent bank statements, basic projections |
| Kiva | 2–6 weeks typical | You must invite friends in the private phase, then go public |
Sources: Division of Revenue One Stop; DSB news releases on EDGE; SSBCI program hub; TAC/WBC calendars; Kiva application flow. (onestop.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov, business.delaware.gov, wbc.trueaccesscapital.org, kiva.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the wrong funding fit. EDGE is competitive and reimburses future expenses; SSBCI is better when a lender is willing to finance growth but needs risk‑share. Match the tool to your stage and need. EDGE, SSBCI. (news.delaware.gov, business.delaware.gov)
- **Ignoring the annual 300∗∗DelawareLLCtax.∗∗Missingthe∗∗June1∗∗deadlinetriggersa∗∗300** Delaware LLC tax.** Missing the **June 1** deadline triggers a **200 penalty plus 1.5% interest per month. Put a calendar reminder. Delaware LLC tax instructions. (corp.delaware.gov)
- Skipping supplier diversity. Free OSD certification improves visibility for under‑threshold purchases and directory searches. OSD portal FAQ. (osd.delaware.gov)
- Waiting to register for vendor alerts. You can miss RFPs entirely; free alerts take minutes to set up. MyMarketplace vendor registration. (mymarketplace.delaware.gov)
- Not asking for help early. DSB and SBDC will review drafts, budgets, and pitches—free. Book them first. DSB “What we do”, DSBDC contact. (business.delaware.gov, ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
Plan B playbook if funding is slow
- Stack smaller wins: Kiva 0% plus a True Access Capital microloan can cover initial gear and marketing while you prepare a stronger EDGE pitch. (kiva.org, trueaccesscapital.org)
- Leverage vendor payments: Start with small state or school‑district purchases (under‑threshold) you can fill quickly; register for vendor alerts and work with APEX to bid. (mymarketplace.delaware.gov, delawareapex.org)
- Use training grants for employees: If you’re hiring, explore DSB’s Workforce Training Grant that reimburses up to 50% of eligible training costs, up to $100,000 per project. Contact a DSB Regional Business Manager to scope eligibility. (choosewilmingtonde.org, delawarebusinesstimes.com)
- Tap 211 for personal safety‑net help: If rent, childcare, or utilities threaten your business decisions, call 211 to stabilize your household while you grow. (delaware211.org)
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Free expert guide for your county: Email business@delaware.gov or call (302) 739-4271 (Dover) / (302) 577-8477 (Wilmington). (business.delaware.gov)
- State grants and financing: EDGE 2.0; SSBCI DELPP/DCAP loans and DASCP investments up to $1,000,000. (news.delaware.gov, business.delaware.gov)
- Trusted lenders for early‑stage moms: True Access Capital loans 5,000–5,000–250,000; Empowerment Fund grants up to $20,000 in Wilmington. (trueaccesscapital.org)
- Zero‑interest bridge: Kiva up to $15,000 at 0%. Local help (302) 219-4629. (kiva.org, wilmingtonalliance.org)
- Licensing basics: Business license generally 75∗∗;printatemporarylicensesameday;LLCannualtax∗∗75**; print a temporary license same day; LLC annual tax **300 due June 1. (revenue.delaware.gov, onestop.delaware.gov, corp.delaware.gov)
Step‑by‑step: register and stay compliant in Delaware
- Get your Delaware business license online: Use One Stop; most can print a temporary license instantly and receive the permanent license in roughly 10 business days. Base state fee is generally $75 for the first location, expiring December 31 each year. Division of Revenue licensing and One Stop FAQ. (revenue.delaware.gov, onestop.delaware.gov)
- Know the annual LLC obligation: Pay $300 by June 1 each year; there is no LLC annual report, just the tax. Division of Corporations tax instructions. (corp.delaware.gov)
- If you plan to use a trade name (DBA): Delaware is moving DBA registration to a centralized One Stop process; watch the Division of Revenue site for the updated implementation date and instructions. Division of Revenue step‑3 page. (revenue.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Division of Revenue Public Service Office (302) 577-8200 for fee guidance, or ask DSBDC to walk through the application with you. One Stop FAQ and DSBDC contact. (onestop.delaware.gov, ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
Local organizations you can lean on
| Type | New Castle County | Kent County | Sussex County |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Small Business Office | DSB Wilmington (302) 577-8477 | DSB Dover (302) 739-4271 | DSB Dover (302) 739-4271 |
| Training & advising | DSBDC main (302) 831-1555; WBC (302) 652-6774 ext. 127; West End Launcher (citywide cohorts) | DSBDC and library‑hosted office hours | DSBDC and APEX Georgetown satellite (302) 831-0781 |
| Community chambers | Delaware Black Chamber (302) 384-7761; Delaware Hispanic Chamber (302) 609-1360 | Central Delaware Chamber (countywide) | Regional chambers and local business alliances |
| Capital | True Access Capital; Kiva Delaware (302) 219-4629; Grow Wilmington Fund for city firms | SSBCI lenders via DSB | SSBCI lenders via DSB; DSBDC referrals |
Sources: DSB; DSBDC; WBC; APEX; Delaware Black Chamber; Delaware Hispanic Chamber; City of Wilmington Grow Wilmington Fund; Wilmington Alliance Kiva. (business.delaware.gov, ondemand.delawaresbdc.org, trueaccesscapital.org, delawareapex.org, debcc.org, hchamber.org, wilmingtonde.gov, wilmingtonalliance.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask the Office of Supplier Diversity about Inclusive certifications and use APEX for safe‑space coaching on government bids. Phone: (302) 577-8477. OSD contacts. (business.delaware.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: OSD has a certification category for Individuals with Disabilities‑Owned firms; Delaware 211 can connect you to child‑care and disability supports to stabilize your launch. Phone: (302) 577-8477; Dial 211. OSD contacts; Delaware 211. (business.delaware.gov, delaware211.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Use the Mid‑Atlantic Veterans Business Outreach Center for free training and counseling; they cover Delaware. Phone: (301) 405-6071; Email: veteranbusiness@umd.edu. VBOC contact. (midatlanticvboc.com)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: For Spanish‑language support, contact the Women’s Business Center (302) 652-6774 ext. 127 and the Latin American Community Center (302) 655-7338; both can connect you to training and community resources. WBC; LACC contact. (trueaccesscapital.org, thelatincenter.org)
- Tribal citizens: Certifications through OSD can improve access to under‑threshold state purchases; APEX helps with federal Indian‑owned set‑aside navigation for contracting. Phone: (302) 577-8477 and (302) 831-0781. OSD and APEX. (business.delaware.gov, delawareapex.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Use library business hours and remote SBDC advising; many workshops run online in the evening. Libraries guide and DSBDC. (guides.lib.de.us, ondemand.delawaresbdc.org)
- Single fathers: All resources in this guide are inclusive and available to single fathers as well (SBDC, DSB, WBC classes, Kiva, OSD). See contact sections for phones and links above. (business.delaware.gov)
- Language access: WBC and Delaware 211 support multiple languages and Spanish programming; libraries provide Spanish resources. Dial 211; WBC: (302) 652-6774 ext. 127. WBC; Delaware 211. (trueaccesscapital.org, delaware211.org)
Application checklist
- Business plan essentials ready to upload: One‑page executive summary, 12‑month budget, and 2‑year projections.
- Proof you can handle the money: Quotes for equipment or software; draft vendor contracts; basic cash‑flow plan.
- Registrations in place: Delaware business license, EIN, and if selling to government, SAM.gov profile and MyMarketplace vendor alerts.
- Support documents: Photo ID, bank statements, lease or home‑based approval if applicable, and any childcare schedule notes that affect operating hours.
- Local help scheduled: Book a DSBDC session and a WBC capital session to polish your deck and application language before you submit.
Program snapshots table
| Program | Who it fits | Amounts and key points | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| EDGE 2.0 | Startups and firms under 7 years, Entrepreneur and STEM tracks | Scaled awards; up to 400,000∗∗totalinEntrepreneurtrackand∗∗400,000** total in Entrepreneur track and **750,000 in STEM each round; finalists pitch | EDGE info |
| SSBCI DELPP/DCAP | Firms needing bank financing support | Risk‑share with lenders; DASCP direct investments up to $1,000,000 | SSBCI programs |
| True Access Capital microloan | Early‑stage and growing firms | 5,000–5,000–50,000 microloans; broader loans up to 250,000∗∗;SBA504upto∗∗250,000**; SBA 504 up to **5,000,000 | True Access Capital |
| Grow Wilmington Fund | Established city businesses | 150,000–150,000–2,500,000; below‑market fixed rate at 7‑year Treasury + 1.67%; long terms | City OED page |
| Kiva Delaware | Very early stage or micro needs | 0% interest loans up to $15,000; up to 36 months | Kiva U.S. apply |
Procurement and certification quick table
| Task | Why it matters | Where to do it |
|---|---|---|
| OSD certification (Diverse and Small Business Focus) | Free, three‑year certification improves visibility for under‑threshold purchases | de.gov/osd |
| Vendor alerts and bid search | Don’t miss opportunities across Delaware agencies and schools | MyMarketplace vendor registration |
| APEX Accelerator counseling | One‑on‑one help with SAM, bids, teaming | (302) 831-0781; APEX program services |
Real‑world example scenarios
- Mobile cosmetology studio in Dover: You secure a 7,500∗∗Kivaloanat∗∗07,500** Kiva loan at **0%** to outfit a van; then you add a **25,000 True Access Capital microloan to expand inventory. In month 3, you register for OSD certification (free) to sell grooming services at a local school under‑threshold purchase. This pathway is common and reduces reliance on a single grant. (kiva.org, trueaccesscapital.org, osd.delaware.gov)
- Cottage bakery in Wilmington: You attend WBC’s access‑to‑capital class, apply for EDGE 2.0 Entrepreneur track, and work with DSBDC to finalize your pitch. You also apply to the Empowerment Fund for a small paired grant to improve your storefront. Whether or not EDGE is awarded, the Empowerment Fund + SSBCI lender support gives you options. (wbc.trueaccesscapital.org, news.delaware.gov, trueaccesscapital.org, business.delaware.gov)
Ten Delaware‑specific FAQs
- Which state office can help me pick the right program fast: DSB Regional Business Managers. Call (302) 739-4271 or (302) 577-8477; email business@delaware.gov. Services are free. DSB “What we do”. (business.delaware.gov)
- How much can I get from EDGE 2.0: The state sets a total pot each round—currently up to 400,000∗∗(Entrepreneur)and∗∗400,000** (Entrepreneur) and **750,000 (STEM)—and awards scaled amounts after a pitch. EDGE 2.0 announcement. (news.delaware.gov)
- What’s the fastest financing if my credit is thin: Kiva up to 15,000∗∗at∗∗015,000** at **0%** with local support; True Access Capital microloans **5,000–$50,000 are also designed for startups. Kiva; TAC Micro Loan Fund overview. (kiva.org, choosewilmingtonde.org)
- Do I have to match EDGE funds: The program maintains a strong match expectation; past rounds used a 3‑to‑1 state match of your investment. Plan to bring cash or documented investment. EDGE program page. (business.delaware.gov)
- What are Delaware’s must‑pay startup fees: Business license generally 75∗∗(firstlocation),andDelawareLLCtax∗∗75** (first location), and Delaware LLC tax **300 due June 1 annually. Division of Revenue and Division of Corporations. (revenue.delaware.gov, corp.delaware.gov)
- Can I get paid to train staff: The Workforce Training Grant can reimburse up to 50% of eligible costs, up to $100,000 per project; coordinate via DSB. Delaware Business Times piece by DSB. (delawarebusinesstimes.com)
- How long does EDGE take from application to awards: Past cycles took about four months from close to awards. Spring 2025 EDGE awards timeline. (news.delaware.gov)
- Is supplier diversity certification required to sell to Delaware: No, but it’s free and increases visibility for under‑threshold purchases; certifications last three years. OSD FAQ. (osd.delaware.gov)
- Where do I find state bids and get notified: MyMarketplace vendor registration and the Bid Solicitation Directory. It’s free. Vendor registration. (mymarketplace.delaware.gov)
- Where can I get help in Spanish: WBC offers Spanish sessions; Delaware 211 also supports multiple languages. WBC: (302) 652-6774 ext. 127; Dial 211. WBC accessibility notice; Delaware 211. (trueaccesscapital.org, delaware211.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
How we source: We use only official Delaware government pages, federal sources, and established nonprofits to give you verified, current steps and numbers you can act on.
Methodology: We verify links, archive sources, and cross‑check program rules across multiple official pages before publishing. See our standards here. Editorial Standards.
Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: info@asinglemother.org
Disclaimer
Accuracy note: Program rules, grant amounts, and deadlines can change quickly. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before you apply or spend money. Links in this guide point to official pages to make verification easy.
No legal advice: This guide is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice.
Security note: For your privacy and safety, avoid sending sensitive personal or banking info by email or text to unknown recipients; use official portals linked in this guide.
Sources cited in this guide
- Delaware Division of Small Business: EDGE program and contacts; SSBCI programs; OSD. (business.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)
- Delaware news releases: EDGE rounds and timelines; EDGE 2.0 updates; SSBCI disbursement update. (news.delaware.gov)
- Delaware One Stop and Division of Revenue: licensing and timelines. (onestop.delaware.gov, revenue.delaware.gov)
- Delaware Division of Corporations: LLC tax amount and deadline; expedited filing options. (corp.delaware.gov)
- Delaware 211: hotline hours and contact. (delaware211.org)
- True Access Capital and WBC: loan products, 504 program, Empowerment Fund, events. (trueaccesscapital.org, wbc.trueaccesscapital.org)
- Grow Wilmington Fund: amounts, rates, terms. (wilmingtonde.gov)
- Kiva: loan amounts, 0% interest, local Delaware contact. (kiva.org, wilmingtonalliance.org)
- Delaware APEX Accelerator: services, phones, locations. (delawareapex.org)
- Libraries business guides and research tools. (guides.lib.de.us)
- West End Launcher Entrepreneurship Program impact and how‑to. (blog.wilmu.edu, westendnh.org)
If any link looks outdated or a phone number changes, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll update within 48 hours per our standards. Editorial Standards.
🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware
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- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
