‘We Can Do Anything’: DPP President &
CEO Monique Claiborne on Delaware’s
Next Economic Development Chapter

October 7, 2026

When I was President & CEO of Greater Portland Inc. (GPI), I could see from afar that when it comes to being a strategic location for global business, innovation, opportunity and access, Delaware punches above its weight.

In my former role at GPI, we served a bi-state region that spanned 7 counties. In the 5½ years I led the organization, I advocated for economic growth in the state capitol, cultivated strong relationships with our federal delegation, secured unprecedented funding and founded Oregon’s international soft-landing program.

And yet nearly 3,000 miles away, I found myself looking at Delaware and seeing something remarkable. I saw a state at the epicenter of one of the strongest economic regions in the country. Delaware wasn’t just sitting on the sidelines of that economy. It was at the center of it. And that distinction matters.

Delaware is also strategically positioned for ideas to travel quickly, for leaders across business, government, education and the community to sit down at the same table. In my mind, these are ingredients for economic growth if we unite them with focus, persistence and a shared sense of purpose.

For example, the newly announced Innovate Delaware initiative will drive investment, foster innovation and create good-paying jobs that position Delaware to win the future for every Delawarean. By strengthening the state’s appeal to startups and attracting high-growth companies in financial technology, next-generation chemicals, clean energy, sustainable advanced materials and biopharma manufacturing, Innovate Delaware will help build a more dynamic business environment where innovation can scale, companies can grow and Delaware’s economy can thrive.

We can do anything if we remain consistent and disciplined in our approach.

Yes, this is an optimistic statement, but there is nothing casual about it. I aim to be intentional and look forward to working with the private sector, educators, government, community leaders and the workforce to illuminate what I love about Delaware — its proximity to major markets, established industries, a connected Mid-Atlantic location and a scale that allows institutions to work together in ways that can be difficult elsewhere.

These assets, coupled with Delaware’s quality of life, enhance a capacity for collaboration to build an economy prepared for what’s next.

Transformational results rarely come from a single announcement, one project or one initiative. They are built over time through sustained attention, clear priorities and the willingness to keep moving forward.

Delaware’s future prosperity is about building on our current momentum and not about chasing the next headline. It is about building an ecosystem that can create momentum year after year — one relationship, one investment, one entrepreneur and one opportunity at a time.