Behind the Scenes of Growth: The Unsung Engine Driving Our Community Forward

What if we told you the success of your favorite local business, the construction of that new industrial site, and even the job opening you just applied for all have something in common? They weren't accidents. They came from strategy, support, and collaboration fueled by your local economic development team.

"Every business launch, expansion, or relocation you see in Wilmington, big or small, starts with a conversation. We're here to help businesses navigate the landscape and thrive because when they grow, Wilmington grows," said Peter Weir, Economic Development Program Manager, Wilmington Office of Economic Development

This Is What Economic Development Looks Like

From May 12 to 16, 2025, communities across the country are celebrating Economic Development Week. Here in Wilmington, we're proud to be part of that movement and shine a spotlight on the work behind the scenes every day.

At the Wilmington Office of Economic Development (OED), our mission is to fuel sustainable growth by investing in people, places, and potential. That mission shows up in some powerful ways:

We help entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses.
We guide companies through site selection, permitting, and incentives.
We support small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses with training and technical assistance.
We collaborate with local institutions and developers to bring to life retail, commercial, cultural, and educational attractions.

We do it all to ensure Wilmington remains a vibrant, diversified economy where job opportunities grow, and businesses of every size can succeed. Whether you're a startup founder looking for resources or a national brand exploring expansion, our job is to make the process smoother, smarter, and more successful.

Real Growth. Real People. Real Results.

The work of economic development might not always make headlines, but it is the foundation of progress. When a local business lands a new contract, when a new coffee shop opens on the corner, when a warehouse expands and hires more workers, that's economic development in action.

And we're just getting started.

Let's Build Something Together

Thinking about growing your business? Curious about how Wilmington can support your next move?

We'd love to talk. The Wilmington Office of Economic Development is here to help you find the tools, connections, and programs you need to take the next step.
Contact Us:
Email SJ Park at the City of Wilmington
(302) 576-2120

City of Wilmington
800 North French Street
Wilmington, Delaware 19801

Your growth story starts here. Let's make it happen. Visit our website to explore how we can support your business growth and investment opportunities.