EDGE Grants

The Division of Small Business awards EDGE Grants through a competitive selection process. STEM-based companies can receive up to $100,000 for eligible expenses. Entrepreneur Class (non-STEM) businesses can get up to $50,000. The funds are provided as a $3 (state) to $1 (business) match. And the Division can provide up to 10 grants per application round (5 STEM/5 Entrepreneur).

Who Is Eligible*

Qualified applications must:

• Have been in operation less than 5 years
• Employ 10 people or fewer
• Be majority located in Delaware
• Have not received a previous Strat Fund grant

Award Criteria*

Applications will be judged by a panel of experts on:

• Business need case
• Competitive advantage gained
• Business viability and likelihood of permanence
• MWVBE status of business owner
• Business location (DDD and/or Opportunity Zone)
• Job creation/revenue growth

Eligible Expenses

Grant funding must be used to expand a business’s viability and sustainability, specifically:

• Market analysis assistance
• Advertising assistance
• Building infrastructure/cosmetic enhancements
• Essential equipment
• Web site design
• Rent assistance for lab space

*Other conditions and qualifications may appl