Governor Carney Presents Final EDGE Awards to Delaware Small Businesses
Dover, DE – In a ceremony at The Mill Space in Wilmington on November 20, Governor John Carney announced the latest winners of the Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion (EDGE) competition. A total of ten small businesses received awards during this final EDGE Awards presentation of the Governor’s administration, which launched the initiative in 2019.
The awarded businesses include a diverse range of sectors, featuring healthcare-related biotech firms developing diagnostics, an Indo-Trini restaurant, a beauty service expanding to new locations, a natural sweeteners producer, and a valet trash service for multi-residential properties. Additionally, innovative companies focusing on carbon emissions tracking and maternal clothing solutions were recognized.
Since its inception, the EDGE Grant Competition has awarded approximately $7.25 million to 110 small businesses, aimed at leveling the playing field for smaller entities against larger competitors. Governor Carney expressed pride in the creativity and resilience of the awardees, stating, "These funds have helped them become significant contributors to the state’s economy."
The EDGE program operates biannually, supporting businesses younger than seven years with a maximum of ten employees. Grants of up to $100,000 are awarded to STEM-based businesses, while non-STEM operations receive up to $50,000. Recipients are selected through a rigorous evaluation process, showcasing the potential for innovation and growth within the state.
Additionally, Secretary of State Jeff Bullock highlighted the importance of small businesses in fostering economic diversity, while noting that over half of the awardees have been woman, minority, or veteran-owned. The Division of Small Business will open the application period for the next round of EDGE grants in February 2025, with an informational webinar scheduled to assist prospective applicants.
For further business assistance and information on services available, visit business.delaware.gov.
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