Encouraging Development, Growth, and Expansion (EDGE) Grant by Delaware Division of Small Business

Grant Overview

Donor: Delaware Division of Small Business under State of Delaware

About: The Encouraging Development, Growth, and Expansion (EDGE) Grant Competition, administered by the Delaware Division of Small Business, offers a competitive grant program designed to support promising early-stage businesses in Delaware. This initiative aims to level the playing field for small businesses against larger, more established competitors by providing significant capital. The program runs two rounds each year, typically in February and August, with up to 10 grants awarded per round. Five grants are allocated to STEM-based companies, each receiving up to $100,000, and five to Entrepreneur Class (non-STEM) businesses, each receiving up to $50,000. The funds are provided as a $3 (state) to $1 (business) match, enabling businesses to invest in eligible expenses that enhance their long-term viability and sustainability.

Applications for the EDGE Grant must include a completed application form and either the Entrepreneur or STEM Template.

The EDGE Grant has successfully supported a diverse range of industries, from wearable technology to agribusiness and craft brewing, contributing to Delaware’s economic growth. Since its launch in 2019, the program has awarded over $5.6 million to 90 small businesses, demonstrating its impact on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the state.

Grantaura expert team can help small businesses in identifying relevant grant opportunities, preparing comprehensive applications, and navigating the competitive selection process.

Focus: STEM-based companies, Entrepreneur Class businesses, early-stage businesses, economic growth, innovation, job creation

Region: Delaware, USA

Eligibility:
-Businesses must have been in operation for less than 7 years
-Employ 10 or fewer people or startups
-Be majority located in Delaware
-Businesses must be in good standing in each other jurisdiction in which its conduct of business requires such qualifications
-Not have more than $500,000 in net assets (Net Assets = Assets – Liabilities)
-Non-Delaware companies may apply if they agree to relocate at least 51% of their business to Delaware upon winning the grant
-Sole proprietorships are eligible to apply

Benefits:
-Up to $100,000 for STEM-based companies
-Up to $50,000 for Entrepreneur Class (non-STEM) businesses
-Funds provided as a $3 (state) to $1 (business) match

Deadline: Ongoing

Terms:
-STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
-Entrepreneur Class: Non-STEM businesses.
-Eligible expenses: Market analysis assistance, advertising assistance, building infrastructure, essential equipment, website design, rent for lab space.
-Ineligible expenses: Owner’s salary, permits, government fees, taxes, and employee wages unless they result in a durable competitive advantage.
-Matching grant: A grant that requires the recipient to contribute a portion of the project cost, with the EDGE Grant providing a $3 (state) to $1 (business) match.