Delaware’s reputation as a business-friendly state isn’t just hype — it’s backed by real advantages that make a measurable difference for entrepreneurs. Here are five reasons why the First State should be your first choice.

1. No Sales Tax — Delaware is one of only five states with zero sales tax. For retailers and service businesses, this means lower prices that attract customers from neighboring states and simplified bookkeeping.

2. The Court of Chancery — Delaware’s specialized business court with expert judges (not juries) resolves disputes faster and more predictably than any other state. It’s why over 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated here.

3. Low Business Formation Costs — Filing an LLC costs as little as $90, and annual franchise taxes for small businesses are among the lowest in the country. Same-day filings are available.

4. Strategic Mid-Atlantic Location — Between New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and D.C., Delaware offers access to 40% of the U.S. population within a four-hour drive.

5. Strong Support Ecosystem — From Delaware SBDC to SCORE mentoring, the Delaware Prosperity Partnership, and programs like the Delaware Innovation Space, founders have deep resources.

Building a strong network is one of the most valuable things a small business owner can do — and Delaware’s tight-knit business community makes it easier than you think. Here are proven strategies to grow your professional circle and turn connections into customers.

Show Up Consistently
Networking isn’t a one-time event. Join a local group — the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Small Business Chamber, or a BNI chapter — and attend regularly. Familiarity builds trust, and trust drives referrals.

Lead with Value
The best networkers don’t walk in asking for business. They walk in asking, “How can I help?” Offer introductions, share resources, refer business to others. What goes around comes around.

Perfect Your 30-Second Pitch
When someone asks what you do, don’t ramble. Have a clear, concise answer: who you serve, what problem you solve, and what makes you different. Practice it until it feels natural.

Follow Up Fast
Met someone interesting? Send a LinkedIn connection request or email within 24 hours. Reference something specific you discussed. Suggest a coffee meeting. The follow-up is where relationships are actually built.

Leverage Digital Networking
Join Delaware-focused LinkedIn groups, Facebook business groups, and online directories like DelawareThrive.com. Your online presence extends your reach beyond any single event.

Host, Don’t Just Attend
Invite peers to your office for a casual mixer. Co-host a workshop with a complementary business. When you’re the host, you’re positioned as a leader and connector.

Delaware’s business community is uniquely accessible. Start building your network today — your next big opportunity might be one handshake away.

We hear “shop local” all the time, but what does it actually mean for Delaware’s economy? The numbers might surprise you.

The Local Multiplier Effect
Studies show that for every dollar spent at a local business, approximately 67 cents stays in the local economy — compared to just 43 cents at a national chain. That extra money recirculates: local businesses hire local employees, use local vendors, and reinvest in the community.

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs
Small businesses employ over 200,000 people in Delaware — that’s nearly half of the state’s private workforce. When you choose a local restaurant over a chain, a neighborhood hardware store over a big box, you’re directly supporting your neighbor’s paycheck.

Tax Revenue Stays Home
Local businesses generate sales tax, property tax, and income tax revenue that funds Delaware schools, roads, parks, and emergency services. When spending shifts online or to out-of-state retailers, that revenue disappears.

Community Character
The unique shops and restaurants that line Main Street in Newark, Trolley Square in Wilmington, or the Boardwalk in Rehoboth — they’re what make Delaware special. Chain stores look the same everywhere. Local businesses reflect the personality and creativity of the community.

What You Can Do
Start small. Choose one meal, one purchase, one service per week from a local business. Share your favorite spots on social media. Leave positive reviews. Join your local business association. Every dollar is a vote for the community you want to live in.

Delaware’s small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Let’s make sure they thrive.