Tag: Science and Technology

Startup 302: Delaware’s Launchpad for Diverse Founders

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Delaware’s innovation ecosystem continues to attract attention as the fifth annual Startup302 competition showcases emerging talent from across the country. Coordinated by the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP), this pitch contest supports tech-enabled startups led by underrepresented founders, including women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. 

From more than 100 applicants, just nine finalists competed to win over $115,000 in non-dilutive grants and gain invaluable access to advisors, investors, and Delaware’s vibrant startup community.

Supporting Underrepresented Startup Talent

Startup302 offers more than funding—it provides critical exposure within a community that values inclusivity and innovation. For early-stage founders who are often overlooked by traditional venture networks, this competition is a chance to gain visibility and build momentum. Finalists spanned three high-growth sectors:

Fintech 

Grad Village (Wilmington, DE) 

Roam (Everett, WA) 

Innocuous AI (New York, NY) 

Environnemental Impact 

Crystron Materials (Wilmington, DE) 

Kipostech (Columbia, PA) 

rotate8 (San Gregorio, CA) 

Life Sciences 

Aeromedical Innovations (Felton, DE) 

Fetal Therapy Technologies (Baltimore, MD) 

Vasowatch (Philadelphia, PA) 

Each finalist pitched their company at a sector-focused Delaware event—offering not just funding, but connections and credibility.

FinTech Innovation Takes the Stage

FinTechs & Fairways, held on April 8–10 and hosted by the Center for Advancing Financial Equity (CAFE) accelerator, spotlighted the fintech finalists in a dynamic setting that blended startup energy with investor insight. Roam, a next-generation HOA management platform, took first place. Wilmington-based Grad Village, connecting college students with private donors, earned second and Innocuous AI, focused on simplifying data management and collection for financial institutions, placed third. 

Startups gained not only grant funding but exposure to national investors and mentors. The event also introduced six additional fintech startups from the CAFE spring accelerator cohort: DubPrime, Goodtrust, Spare, Starlight, TAZI AI, and Trackstar AI.

CleanTech Innovation Ecosystem Summit 

On April 24, the IS: CleanTech 2025 summit at The Innovation Space in Wilmington brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders to explore the future of clean technology and sustainability. This premier half-day event featured insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and a showcase of groundbreaking solutions in climate tech and clean energy.  

A highlight of the summit was the Startup302 Environmental Impact Finals, where finalists Crystron Materials, KiposTech, and rotate8 presented their innovative approaches to pressing environmental challenges. KiposTech, with its patent-pending hardware system that merges bioaerosol science with advanced data analytics to enhance biosecurity, emerged as the winner. Rotate8, which offers a solar-powered farm automation suite to streamline farming operations, took second place. Crystron Materials took home third place with its sustainable battery technology.

Life Sciences Finalists Take the Stage at Delaware’s DNA Conference

The final round of Startup302 took place at Delaware’s DNA Life Science Conference  on May 8 at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington. The event brought together biotech leaders, researchers, startups, and investors to celebrate Delaware’s growing life sciences sector—and to spotlight some of the most promising startups in the region.  

In a close competition, Fetal Therapy Technologies earned first place for its groundbreaking device that enables surgeons to perform corrective procedures on fetuses in utero. Second place went to Vasowatch for its real-time fetal monitoring system that detects postpartum hemorrhage during childbirth, while Delaware-based Aeromedical Innovations secured third for its wireless patient monitoring solution designed to replace traditional hospital cables.

solution designed to replace traditional hospital cables. 

Fueling Growth and Connections

Startup302 finalists receive travel stipends and can earn between $3,000 and $25,000 in grants, with bonus incentives for Delaware-based startups. But the deeper value lies in long-term relationships—with fellow founders, investors, and future partners. 

Since 2020, 583 companies have applied for the competition, and 61 companies were awarded $926,500 in non-diluted unrestricted grants which further strengthens Delaware’s reputation as a home for equitable innovation. Sponsors including Bronze Valley, Chase, DuPont, Discover Bank, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, FMC, Highmark Delaware, and The Mill help ensure the program continues to grow. 

➡️ Learn more about the competition and meet the finalists at Startup302.

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How the STAR Fund Helps STEM in Delaware

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The STAR Fund and STEM in Delaware

If you’re a recent STEM graduate looking to launch your career in a place where innovation thrives and your work makes a difference, Delaware might be your perfect match.

Delaware offers an unbeatable mix of career opportunities, lifestyle, and community for STEM professionals. It’s home to a fast-growing life sciences sector, nationally ranked research institutions like University of Delaware, and a rich history of scientific discovery—think DuPont’s legacy, now expanded by leading companies like Agilent, Incyte, Solenis, and Prelude Therapeutics.

In Delaware, your commute is measured in minutes—not hours. You can live in a vibrant downtown, scenic suburbs, or near the beach — all while staying connected to the Northeast corridor’s major metro areas. Philadelphia, New York City, Washington D.C., and Baltimore are within a short train ride or drive, making Delaware a strategic home base for STEM professionals who want both access and balance.

And unlike many tech hubs, Delaware offers:

  • No sales tax and low personal tax burden (6th lowest in the country!)
  •  Lower cost of living compared to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region
  • A welcoming community where professionals can make a name for themselves
  • Easy access to outdoor recreation, including beaches, biking trails, and state parks
  • Vibrant arts, culture, and dining scenes, from Wilmington’s music festivals and theaters to historic small towns with acclaimed restaurants and local makers

Delaware doesn’t just attract talent — it invests in it.

Introducing the STAR Fund: Student Loan Assistance for STEM in Delaware

To help recent graduates build long-term careers in the First State, Delaware has launched the STEM Talent Advancement and Retention (STAR) Fund—a student loan repayment program that provides up to $6,000 to STEM professionals working in high-demand fields.

The fund, administered by the Delaware Division of Small Business in partnership with BioConnect DE, is part of the state’s commitment to growing a skilled, inclusive, and future-focused workforce.

Who is Eligible?

The STAR Fund is open to individuals who:

  • Hold an associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in a STEM field from an accredited institution
  • Work full-time (35+ hours/week) for a Delaware-based employer

Are employed in one of the following fields:

  • Life, natural, or environmental sciences
  • Computer information or software technology
  • Advanced mathematics or finance
  • Engineering
  • Medical device technology

Preference is given to those who live in Delaware or attended a Delaware college or university.

What You Can Receive

  • Depending on your degree, STAR Fund participants may receive:
  • Up to $1,000 for an associate degree
  • Up to $4,000 for a bachelor’s degree
  • Up to $6,000 for a graduate or post-graduate degree

Awards can be received for up to four consecutive years, provided they don’t exceed your actual loan expenses.

Your Future, Backed by Delaware

Whether you’re working in R&D, software development, biotech, or sustainable engineering, Delaware offers a connected community, growing opportunities, and meaningful support for those who want to make an impact.

The STAR Fund is more than a financial incentive — it’s a statement that Delaware values your work, your education, and your future. For full program details and application information visit bioconnectde.org/star-fund.

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QPS Chooses to Expand at Newark’s DTP

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QPS chooses to make $16.6M investment and add 135 new jobs in Delaware Technology Park

DPP’s Becky Harrington, left, and Noah Olson, right, with Pedro Gonzalez and Ben Hsu of QPS following the CDF meeting.

30-year-old clinical research organization’s headquarters expanding to third building, increasing workforce by 2027

April 28, 2025

WILMINGTON, Del. – A globally leading clinical research organization (CRO) has chosen to grow its Newark, Delaware, headquarters with a $16.6 million laboratory and office expansion in Delaware Technology Park, where the company already is the largest tenant.

QPS Holdings, LLC – a 30-year-old CRO specializing in bioanalysis and preclinical and clinical services – is renowned for its work supporting large pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in their research programs and drug-development efforts. In addition to its headquarters in Newark, it operates U.S. locations in Florida and Missouri; European sites in Austria and The Netherlands; Asian facilities in China, India and Taiwan; and a site in Australia.

The company has experienced significant growth in recent years, particularly in its Newark-based translational medicine division. It now requires larger research and development space as its growth is expected to accelerate even further.

QPS currently occupies all of 3 Innovation Way and 90% of 1 Innovation Way in Delaware Technology Park. The company plans to lease an additional 55,515 square feet of space – including more than 15,000 square feet of lab space – in a new building at 6 Innovation Way. The company currently has 336 full-time employees in Delaware and plans to add 135 new full-time positions here by the end of 2027.

QPS will expand into a newly constructed building at 6 Innovation Way in Delaware Technology Park.

QPS is a founding member of the Delaware Bioscience Association and has actively participated in numerous programs and activities within the statewide biotech and pharmaceutical community, particularly those in education and technology innovation. These include collaborating with the University of Delaware to recruit new graduates and establish internship programs.

Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) has worked with QPS officials over the last year to explore locations and possibilities for the company’s growth. Today, DPP supported QPS’s request to the state Council for Development Finance for a Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $1.1 million and a Jobs Performance Grant of $162,000 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grant monies is dependent on the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved QPS’s request.

“This expansion project in Delaware Technology Park, Newark, Delaware, is strategically important to QPS’s businesses,” said Ben Hsu, Chief Administrative Officer of QPS Holdings, LLC. “It will significantly expand QPS’s capacity to serve our clients in both Lab Services and Clinical Services globally.”

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Synnovation Chooses to Expand in Delaware

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Homegrown precision cancer treatment firm chooses Delaware for workforce expansion

Becky Harrington of Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP), Noah Olson of DPP, Paul Trower of Synnovation Therapeutics, Wenqing Yao of Synnovation Therapeutics, state Senator Nicole Poore of the Council on Development Finance (CDF) and Erica Crell of DPP following the January 27 meeting of the CDF.

Synnovation Therapeutics will add more than 40 new jobs at its current site in Wilmington-area Innovation Space

January 29, 2025

A small Delaware-founded business in the precision oncology sector has chosen to grow in Delaware with plans to more than double its current workforce.

Synnovation Therapeutics plans to create more than 40 new jobs to support its work to transform cancer treatment through the discovery and development of targeted small-molecule therapies. Since its 2021 founding by one of Incyte’s founding scientists, the company has operated at The Innovation Space just outside the City of Wilmington and steadily increased the size of its workforce.

The company aims to expand its team to 70-plus skilled professionals by creating 44 full-time jobs in Delaware through 2026. Positions will include chemists and other scientists along with operations, management and administrative personnel, each of whom will earn $100,000 or more annually.

Since its launch, Synnovation has rapidly advanced its portfolio of targeted oncology molecules. As a result, the company has positioned itself as a leader in innovative, patient-focused precision medicine that addresses significant unmet needs and improves patient outcomes.

Synnovation’s work also has enhanced Delaware’s reputation as a leader in life sciences innovation. The company’s precision oncology focus also aligns with the U.S. Economic Development Administration Regional Technology and Innovation Hub designation of the Delaware-including Philadelphia region as a center for excellence in precision medicine.

“New Castle County has long been a hub of innovation and success in the pharmaceutical industry,” said New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry. “We are thrilled to support a thriving and dynamic ecosystem of large, medium and small businesses throughout the community.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership has engaged with Synnovation to discuss the company’s growth and talent acquisition plans since 2022. On Monday, DPP supported the company’s request to the state Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $438,000 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grant monies is dependent on the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and recommended Synnovation’s request.

“We look forward to our continued growth in Delaware and sincerely appreciate the state’s support of the innovation that drives our pursuit of improving outcomes for cancer patients,” said Synnovation CEO and Founder Wenqing Yao. “Delaware’s strong commitment to building a robust biotechnology ecosystem in the greater Wilmington area was a key factor in our decision to expand here.”

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About Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Delaware Prosperity Partnership is the nonprofit public/private organization that leads Delaware’s statewide economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent. Collaborating with partners throughout the state since its creation in 2017, DPP has supported 76 location and expansion projects that account for more than $2 billion in projected capital investment and more than 10,000 new and retained jobs.

About Synnovation Therapeutics

Synnovation is dedicated to the discovery and development of best-in-class therapeutics that can improve the lives of patients. Leveraging deep expertise in biology and a world-class medicinal chemistry team, the company is building a diverse pipeline of novel small-molecule targeted therapies. Synnovation’s mission is to efficiently advance these agents into clinical trials with the goal of transforming care through patient-focused precision medicine.

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Incyte Project Lauded with Impact Award

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Economic development publication selects DPP-supported project for national honor

Significance of Incyte headquarters project in Wilmington cited by Business Facilities Deal of the Year Impact Award

January 9, 2025

A leading publication for corporate site selectors and economic development professionals has chosen a Delaware Prosperity Partnership-supported project as a winner in its 2024 Deal of the Year competition.

Business Facilities magazine is recognizing DPP and its partners for work on Incyte’s plan to retain and expand operations in Wilmington, Delaware, with a Deal of the Year Impact Award in the Corporate Headquarters Category. After a two-year search, the Delaware-founded global biopharmaceutical company announced in May that it would purchase two vacant buildings in downtown Wilmington and renovate them into a new corporate headquarters that will bring more than 300 relocated out-of-state jobs and up to 500 new, future jobs to the city’s business district.

DPP began working with the company – assisted by the Office of the Governor, the Delaware Division of Small Business, the Delaware Economic Development Authority, the City of Wilmington Office of the Mayor and other partners – in the summer of 2023. Together, they reached a collaborative solution that would meet Incyte’s two-year timeline and keep the company’s future growth in Delaware.

Incyte is investing more than $189 million in the acquisition and renovation of the Bracebridge I and Bracebridge III buildings, which comprise more than 500,000 square feet, along with renovations at its existing Alapocas campus just outside the Wilmington city limits. The project, which Business Facilities called a “transformative investment in Wilmington,” will allow Incyte to almost double both its workforce and its physical footprint in Delaware. Additional benefits include significantly reducing the city’s office vacancy rate, growing the city-based workforce and increasing weekday foot traffic for downtown businesses. More information about the project is available on the DPP website.

“The acquisition of the two buildings in Downtown Wilmington provided the perfect opportunity for us to expand our presence while reinforcing our commitment to Delaware,” said Hervé Hoppenot, Incyte president and chief executive officer. “We believe that this new expansion will provide capacity for growth in the future and contribute to both our success and that of the downtown Wilmington community.”

Founded in Delaware following the sale of DuPont Pharmaceuticals to Bristol Myers Squibb in 2002 and growing steadily over the last 22 years, Incyte is a local success story with a global footprint. The NASDAQ-traded company has a robust portfolio of treatments across hematology/oncology and inflammation and autoimmunity. In addition to its global headquarters in Delaware, the company maintains its European headquarters in Switzerland along with commercial operations and other offices across Europe and in Japan, China and Canada. Incyte currently employs more than 2,500 people across North America, Europe and Asia, with approximately 1,000 of them based in Delaware.

Business Facilities has highlighted economic development and site selection news from around the world for more than 50 years. The magazine added Impact Awards that highlight outstanding projects in specific industries to its Deal of the Year Awards program in 2021, and DPP received one of those inaugural honors in the Biosciences Category. DPP’s current accolade and the rest of the 2024 Deal of the Year Awards are featured in the January/February 2025 issue of Business Facilities.

“Delaware has been known for homegrown innovation since DuPont was founded here in 1802, through Incyte’s founding here in 2002 and continuing today, and Wilmington is well-known as the homebase for many global corporations,” said DPP President and CEO Kurt Foreman. “DPP is proud that Business Facilities recognizes the significance of Incyte’s decision to expand here and that we helped bring about plans that will benefit Delaware’s economy and business community, provide local job opportunities and enable Incyte to continue growing its work to find innovative solutions for patients with critical unmet medical needs.”

The original May 2024 announcement of the Incyte project is at: https://www.choosedelaware.com/press-releases/incyte-grows-in-downtown-wilmington-de/.

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Advancing Precision and Predictive Medicine: Delaware’s Role in Two EDA Designated Tech Hubs

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Delaware Innovative Environment Helps Businesses Thrive

Delaware’s strategic location and robust life sciences ecosystem play a pivotal role in two major tech hubs designated in 2023: the PROPEL Tech Hub in Philadelphia for precision medicine and the Baltimore Tech Hub for predictive medicine. Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs (tech hubs), as designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), signal a strong endorsement of a region’s plan to become a global leader in a critical technology ecosystem over the next decade. A key member of the Philadelphia PROPEL Tech Hub and adjacent to the Baltimore Tech Hub, Delaware features an innovative life sciences ecosystem as well as a fundamental commitment to building partnerships between industry, academia, and government. 

Delaware’s Involvement in the PROPEL Tech Hub 

The PROPEL Tech Hub, anchored in Philadelphia and organized by the Benjamin Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania, aims to accelerate the development and implementation of precision medicine solutions by leveraging robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), data processing, and other cutting-edge technologies. Delaware emerges as a key player in this initiative through the active involvement of leading tech entrepreneurs, incubators, and advocates, including the Delaware Innovation Space, the Tech Council of Delaware, the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), Zipcode Wilmington, and more. 

Central components of the tech hub led wholly or in part by Delaware companies and institutions include workforce development, biomanufacturing, and entrepreneurship. These efforts highlight the strength of Delaware’s life sciences and biotech ecosystem. The Tech Council of Delaware, in partnership with Philadelphia Works, will continue initiatives in workforce development, aiming to expand regional biotech training programs to reach a diverse, skilled workforce. NIIMBL and the University of Delaware will spearhead the biomanufacturing component of the PROPEL Tech Hub, focusing on increasing the capacity of training programs, advancing technologies, and improving speed-to-market in the sector. For entrepreneurship, the Delaware Innovation Space and the Ben Franklin Technology Partners will accelerate the commercialization of new technologies and expand founder, corporate, and venture networks. 

Delaware’s Role in the Baltimore Tech Hub 

The Baltimore Tech Hub focuses on combining biotechnology with AI and ML to create predictive medicine solutions, aiming to transform healthcare by accelerating the commercialization of precision healthcare technologies. While Delaware is not officially a partner in the Baltimore Tech Hub, its proximity to Baltimore and wealth of innovation resources can support the hub’s entrepreneurship and commercialization efforts. Delaware offers access to capital, lab space, and mentorship programs, providing startups and entrepreneurs with valuable opportunities to develop and test innovative products. Additionally, Delaware’s highly skilled life sciences workforce offers a significant advantage for companies and institutions in the Baltimore Tech Hub, positioning them for success from the start. 

Leading the Way as a New U.S. Tech Hub

Delaware’s distinct contributions in the PROPEL Tech Hub in Philadelphia and its proximity to exciting developments in the Baltimore Tech Hubs underscores the state’s substantial biotechnology and life sciences ecosystem. By leveraging its strengths in workforce development, biomanufacturing, and entrepreneurship, Delaware not only enhances regional collaborations but also positions itself as a critical player in the future of healthcare innovation. This integrated approach promises to deliver groundbreaking solutions that improve health outcomes and drive economic growth, benefiting the entire region and beyond. 

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AirJoule Locating at 2 Sites in Delaware

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New Venture Concentrating on Advanced Dehumidification and Atmospheric Water Harvesting Chooses Delaware for Location

Bryan Mack (Delaware Prosperity Partnership), Jonathan Tracy (AirJoule), Matthew Grandbois (AirJoule), Noah Olson (Delaware Prosperity Partnership) and Yvonne Deadwyler (New Castle County Chamber of Commerce) following the Council on Finance Development meeting.

AirJoule, created by GE Vernova and Montana Technologies, opening sites in Newark and Wilmington

July 23, 2024

WILMINGTON, Del. – AirJoule LLC (“AirJoule” or the “Company”), a 50-50 joint venture between GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) and Montana Technologies Corp. (Nasdaq: AIRJ) that focuses on economical atmospheric water harvesting, has chosen to locate in Delaware.

AirJoule is leasing a 30,000 square-foot site on Shea Way in the Newark area’s Delaware Industrial Park for its main office and manufacturing facilities. It is also leasing 500 square feet at The Innovation Space in Wilmington’s DuPont Experimental Station for research and development activities.

The Company projects an investment of up to $15.3 million to prepare the Newark site for its operations. It also anticipates hiring up to 60 employees for professional, skilled and semi-skilled technical positions with salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $100,000 during the next few years.

“This is exciting news for Delaware. AirJoule’s decision to bring administrative, manufacturing and research operations to the First State creates a variety of job opportunities for Delawareans,” said Governor John Carney. “I want to thank the Delaware Prosperity Partnership for its continued work to make sure Delaware has a vibrant workforce and a strong economy.”

AirJoule uses an environmentally friendly, sorbent-based process with minimal emissions to produce efficient and sustainable air dehumidification and harvest pure distilled water from air. Designed to reduce energy consumption and generate material cost efficiencies, the AirJoule system eliminates the need for refrigerants, uses little energy and works in both humid and arid environments.

AirJoule is a 50-50 joint venture between GE Vernova and Montana Technologies. GE Vernova is a publicly traded global leader in electrification, decarbonization and energy solutions, with more than 80,000 employees across 100 countries, that generates approximately 30% of the world’s electricity and serves many of the world’s leading utilities and large industrial electricity users. Montana Technologies is a publicly traded corporation that developed the AirJoule system based on a concept developed by researchers at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

AirJoule’s location in Delaware will further strengthen the state’s advanced chemical and materials science industries while contributing to global decarbonization initiatives.

“Congratulations to AirJoule on the location of their main office and manufacturing center in Newark, along with their cutting-edge R&D site in Wilmington,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “Their commitment to pioneering atmospheric water harvesting through innovation and collaboration is truly inspiring, and we wish them a future filled with sustainable solutions and impactful advancements.”

Following a referral from the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, DPP collaborated with the Company, the State of Delaware, and other partners to help AirJoule select its sites in Delaware. DPP supported AirJoule’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $540,000 and a Capital Expenditure Grant of up to $460,650 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grant monies is dependent on the Company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved AirJoule’s request for up to $1,000,650 in total funding.

According to Company officials, AirJoule selected Delaware over another potential location primarily due to the state’s robust talent pool of chemical engineers and its business affordability.

“We are thrilled to be establishing our main office and manufacturing facility in the vibrant state of Delaware,” said AirJoule CEO Bryan Barton, who previously worked at other companies in Delaware. “Delaware’s dynamic business environment and talented workforce make it the ideal location to locate our operations.”

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About Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Created in 2017, Delaware Prosperity Partnership is the nonprofit public/private organization that leads Delaware’s statewide economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent.

About AirJoule LLC

Created as a 50-50 joint venture between GE Vernova and Montana Technologies in March 2024, AirJoule offers transformational technology that enables the atmosphere to become an around-the-clock renewable energy and water resource. It is the exclusive commercialization entity resulting from technologies developed both at GE Vernova and Montana Technologies. Furthermore, it is one of the first business transactions from GE Vernova’s Ventures and Incubation group, which brings leading energy transition innovations to customers by collaborating with startups.

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The Blue Economy in Delaware Opens Doors for Opportunities

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June 24, 2024

The coastal regions of Delaware represent significant drivers of economic growth in maritime industries, including blue tech and tourism. As the lowest-lying elevation state in the country, Delaware has unparalleled access to a variety of water bodies as well as the ability to address key issues around climate change and coastal resilience to open up doors for the blue economy in Delaware. From the estuaries and salt marshes of the Delaware River and Bay to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the Blue Economy in Delaware continues to innovate and expand.

Blue Tech Innovation

The Blue Economy can refer to multiple ideas, including economic activity related to the ocean or marine-driven projects focused on sustainability and resilience. In Delaware, key advancements in the Blue Economy revolve around blue tech like ocean robotics, offshore wind, and aquaculture. A major component supporting innovation in these fields stems from Project Align, Build, Leverage, and Expand (Project ABLE), a workforce development initiative at the University of Delaware (UD) in support of advancing the Blue Economy.

While Delaware’s unique geographic and oceanographic characteristics provide the foundation for advancements in blue tech, it’s the collaborative commitment between academia, industry, and government that provides the framework to support advancements in blue tech. For example, University of Delaware’s (UD) operates a fleet of research vessels that facilitate research not only for faculty, students, and scientists, but also government agencies and private industry across the country. Additionally, UD’s Robotic Discovery Laboratories at the campus in Lewes support the advancement of underwater robotics with seven robots housed in the labs.

Aquaculture and offshore wind also make up a significant portion of Delaware’s blue economy. Delaware Sea Grant, another UD initiative, works in numerous inland bays to enhance shellfish aquaculture, supporting local oyster farmers and cultivating a sustainable food source as well as improving water quality due to the oysters natural filtration ability. In terms of offshore wind, UD is again on the frontlines, partnering with a Delaware Technical Community College to create an offshore wind training initiative to prepare students with the prerequisite safety skills to enter the industry. Delaware sits near multiple offshore wind projects from New Jersey to Virginia that are under development, and the state is also within driving distance of three ports integral to the assembly of offshore wind turbines.

Tourism and the Culinary Coast

The innovations and advancements in blue tech are not the only thing cooking on Delaware’s coast and supporting economic growth. In Sussex County, locals and tourists alike can indulge in the Culinary Coast: “Life tastes better here”. The Culinary Coast refers to a region encompassing all southern Delaware, from the pastoral landscapes of Greenwood to the lively boardwalk and beaches in Rehoboth. Reflecting its agricultural roots, the region features exceptional restaurants with world-class chefs, such as past James Beard-nominated restaurants Heirloom and One Coastal, that focus on locally-grown, farm-to-table produce and seafood. Not only does the reputation of the Culinary Coast reflect its economic impact, but it also exemplifies the quality of life in Delaware.

In addition to the fantastic food, the coastal areas of Delaware continue to draw thousands of people each year to its stunning beaches. The pristine sands and clear waters of Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Cape Henlopen not only provide a picturesque escape for tourists but also serve as significant economic drivers for the region. These beaches are hubs of activity, offering a blend of family-friendly attractions, vibrant boardwalks, and a plethora of recreational activities that boost local businesses. Not just a seasonal beach town, a growing number of residents stay year-round down the shore, supporting a wide range of enterprises from hospitality to retail, and spurring investment in infrastructure and real estate. The thriving beach economy fosters job creation, contributes to the state’s revenue through tourism taxes, and enhances Delaware’s appeal as a prime destination for both relaxation and business opportunities.

Maritime Economy Grows Opportunities

In conclusion, Delaware’s coastal regions are not just picturesque vacation spots but pivotal economic engines driving growth and innovation. From the cutting-edge developments in blue tech and sustainable aquaculture to the bustling tourism and culinary delights of the Culinary Coast, the state leverages its unique geographic and oceanographic advantages to foster a robust Blue Economy. Collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and government play a crucial role in supporting these advancements, ensuring Delaware remains at the forefront of maritime innovation and resilience. As Delaware continues to attract visitors with its stunning beaches and exceptional food, the economic benefits extend well beyond tourism, creating a dynamic and thriving coastal economy that supports local businesses, generates jobs, and enhances the overall quality of life in the state.

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Startup302 Recognizes 15 Ventures

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Fourth Startup302 Pitch Competition Awards Grants, Prizes to 15 Ventures with Underrepresented Founders

Funding, connections and other resources provided to winning tech-enabled startups led by members of underfunded groups

May 28, 2024

WILMINGTON, Del. – Fifteen tech-enabled startups with at least one team member from an underfunded demographic are sharing $170,000 in nondilutive, nonrestricted grant monies from Delaware’s fourth Startup302 competition, which was coordinated by Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) and partners from throughout Delaware and beyond.

Companies competed in five categories and represented multiple industries in the live pitching round, which took place May 16 at Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington, Delaware. All three finalists in each category were awarded as follows:

Delaware Impact

  • 1st: Futures First Gaming (Wilmington, Delaware) – $20,000 plus a one-year membership to World Trade Center Delaware and a marketing consultation with Aloysius, Butler & Clark
  • 2nd: The LeGrand Company (Hockessin, Delaware) – $10,000 plus a one-year membership to World Trade Center Delaware
  • 3rd: Tri-State 3D Tech & Design Firm (Wilmington, Delaware) – $5,000 plus a one-year membership to World Trade Center Delaware

Early Stage

  • 1st: Inclusion Unpacked (New York, New York) – $9,500 plus a marketing consultation with Aloysius, Butler & Clark
  • 2nd: HouseCall VR (Wilmington, Delaware) – $6,500 plus a one-year membership to World Trade Center Delaware
  • 3rd: Kazi Konekt (Atlanta, Georgia) – $4,000

Environmental Impact

Environmental Impact

  • 1st: Dunya Analytics (Wilmington, Delaware) – $20,000 plus a one-year membership to World Trade Center Delaware and a marketing consultation with Aloysius, Butler & Clark
  • 2nd: Baleena (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) – $10,000
  • 3rd: Sundial Foods (Albany, California) – $5,000

FinTech

FinTech

  • 1st: Lipaworld (New York, New York) – $20,000 plus a marketing consultation with Aloysius, Butler & Clark
  • 2nd: Sharely (Fort Myers, Florida) – $10,000
  • 3rd: Instarails (Alpharetta, Georgia) – $5,000

Life Sciences

Life Sciences

  • 1st: Swan NeuroTech (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) – $20,000 plus a marketing consultation with Aloysius, Butler & Clark
  • 2nd: BioLattice (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) – $10,000
  • 3rd: Graftable (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) – $5,000

Finalists with University of Delaware-affiliated founders also were considered for the Blue Hen Prize, which was sponsored by the University of Delaware’s Horn Entrepreneurship program:

  • 1st: Dunya Analytics (Wilmington, Delaware) – $7,500
  • 2nd: The LeGrand Company (Hockessin, Delaware) – $2,500

In addition to the finals-day activities, competitors benefited from participation in educational networking events with potential advisees and funders. These included a welcome reception on May 15 and a breakfast with investors on May 17.

“We’re so grateful for the ongoing support from sponsors and community members for this exciting competition, and, as usual, we were extremely impressed by the quality of the startups who made it to the finals,” said DPP Director of Innovation Noah Olson. “Startup 302’s mission to support founders from underrepresented backgrounds is such an important one, and this year’s finalists not only further enhance the wellspring of innovation developing in Delaware but offer technologies and solutions that truly will make the world a better place.”

Startup302 launched in 2020 and is coordinated by DPP and partners from the local, regional and national innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems with an aim to foster diverse perspectives, promote inclusive and equitable consideration and attract diverse communities of founders to the region. Competing companies must be technology-based or tech-enabled with high-growth potential and at least one founding team member from an underrepresented group: women; people of color, including African Americans, Latin Americans and Native Americans; and members of the LGBTQ+ community – all of whose ventures are underinvested in relative to their demographic’s percentage of overall United States population. Including this year, Startup302 has awarded $813,000 in funding to 52 ventures since the first finals took place in 2021.

There is no charge for companies to enter. This year’s competition launched in December and attracted more than 100 applicants from throughout Delaware and across the United States as well as Mexico and two countries in Africa. Two preliminary rounds and a semi-final round, all conducted remotely, determined which ventures would compete in the final in-person round.

Finals day began with Michelle Harris, Delaware District director, Small Business Administration, giving the morning keynote address on how SBA assistance for small businesses helps boost the U.S. economy. Erika Lucas, founder of StitchCrew, gave the afternoon keynote “The Majority Economy: Economics of Why We Need to Invest in Diverse Founders.” Other speakers included Don Mell, executive director and site leader for the Delaware Market of J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., who discussed Chase’s new program to help with environmental impact, and Molly Giordano, executive director of Delaware Art Museum, who welcomed participants to the venue and invited them to view the exhibition “There is a Woman in Every Color.”

The educational panel discussion “Preparing for Funding” was moderated by Troy C. Farmer, owner of EVA Enterprises and manager of the Delaware Small Business Development Center’s Community Navigator Program. Panelists were Christine Parrish of Ardent Technology Solutions; RoseAnn B. Rosenthal of the First Fund; Marcie Reilly of The Innovation Space; and Blessy Thomas of Innovative Capital Growth Fund.

Judges for the finals included Regina Barry of Ashland; Jonathan Burbaum, Entrepreneur in Residence, The Innovation Space; Dora Cheatham of First State Hydrogen; Cynthia Conway of Oakwise Marketing; Daniel Freeman of Horn Entrepreneurship; Christine Galib of Venture University Venture Partners; Juliana Green of FMC Ventures; Elyce Hall of the Small Business Development Center; Martin Hunt of Swanlaab USA Ventures; Anastasia Jackson of the Delaware Division of Small Business; Nicholas Moriello of Highmark; Dwayne Parker of Highmark; Janet Reed of Potter Anderson; Luz A. Sellers of the Women’s Business Center at True Access Capital; Billy Taki of ResilienceVC; Amy Walls of Discover Bank; Troy Wilford of Horn Entrepreneurship; and Laura Wisler of the Delaware Division of Small Business.

Judges for the preliminaries and semi-finals included Nathaniel Brese of DuPont; Desa Burton of ZipCode Wilmington; Leopoldo Carbajal of DuPont; Cora Castle of OmniPotential Energy; Ryan Hamilton of Ashland; Ellyn Herbert of the Small Business Administration; Lisa Hoffman of FMC; Garry Johnson III of First Founders; Katie Lakofsky of the Delaware BioScience Association; Jeff Meth of DuPont; Michael Mills of DuPont; Pedro Moore, Fintech Incubator/True Access Capital mentor; Liz Nutting of Discover Bank; Dwayne Parker of Highmark; Mike Rinkunas of Flying Pig Ventures; Maggie Schano of Highmark; Lori Sefton of the University of Maryland; Jeff Snellberg of Pennsylvania Angel Network; Lauren Swain of the Delaware Division of Small Business; Xavier Thomas of DuPont; Joe Zilcosky of the Delaware Division of Small Business; Deb Travers of The Innovation Space; and Matthias Weber of Mighty Capital.

Pitch sessions were moderated by steering committee members Alysse Bortolotto of the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce; Troy Farmer of EVA Enterprises; Cathy Holloway of the Emerging Enterprise Center; Ayanna Khan of the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce; and Marcie Reilly of The Innovation Space. Other steering committee members included Salaika Adams of the Women’s Business Center at True Access Capital; Daniel Anzueto of StartOut; Sara Crawford of Sara Crawford, Consultant; Emiliano Espinosa of the Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center; Sarah Mailloux of the Small Business Development Center; Darren Stephenson of Bronze Valley Gener8tor; Linda Walck of Horn Entrepreneurship; and Troy Wilford of Horn Entrepreneurship.

Sponsors included the Delaware Division of Small Business (Innovator Level); Discover Bank (Business+ Level); Chase (Supporter+ Level); DuPont, FMC, Highmark Delaware and the University of Delaware Horn Entrepreneurship Program (Supporter Level); Ashland, Bronze Valley VentureLab, Delaware Small Business Development Center Community Navigator, The Innovation Space, M&T Bank and Potter Anderson (Basic Level); and Aloysius Butler & Clark , Delaware Art Museum, Delaware Limo, Delaware Small Business Development Center, Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront, StartOut, True Access Capital Women’s Business Center and World Trade Center Delaware (In-Kind Level).

“DPP and its partners are excited to showcase these amazing companies and to help give them exposure, connections and a monetary boost to keep them moving forward on their entrepreneurial journey,” said DPP Innovation Manager Erica Crell. “We thank our sponsors and all of those who help bring this program to life and allow it to continue successfully impacting underrepresented members of the startup community.”

Descriptions of each competing company and biographies for the speakers and other participants are available in the Startup302 program booklet.

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Incyte Grows in Downtown Wilmington, DE

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Incyte Chooses to Grow in Delaware with Investment in New Downtown Wilmington Site

Global biopharmaceutical company will relocate more than 300 Pennsylvania jobs with space for more than 500 new, future positions

May 22, 2024

WILMINGTON, Del. – Incyte, a Delaware-founded global biopharmaceutical company with a robust portfolio of treatments across oncology and inflammation and autoimmunity, has chosen downtown Wilmington, Delaware, for an expansion.

Incyte today announced it has purchased the Bracebridge I and Bracebridge III buildings at King and French streets in downtown Wilmington. The structures were built in the mid-1990s for MBNA and used by the bank until its 2006 merger with Bank of America, which eventually left both sites empty. Incyte will renovate the buildings, whose 517,307 square feet will almost double the company’s Delaware footprint, starting with Bracebridge I. The new space will allow Incyte to continue building its Delaware employee base by bringing in more than 300 employees currently working in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, and provide space to grow and add more than 500 new positions across the two buildings in the future.

“Incyte’s decision to move their headquarters to downtown Wilmington is not only a big deal for the city – it’s a big deal for our state,” said Governor John Carney. “Incyte is a Delaware success story. Incyte grew out of its space at the DuPont Experimental Station and moved hundreds of employees into a renovated headquarters at Augustine Cut Off. Not only does this announcement mean more great jobs in our state – but it means that there is more opportunity for Incyte to keep doing good in our community and across the world. Incyte’s research makes a huge difference in peoples’ lives. We couldn’t be prouder to call them a Delaware-grown company and we’re excited about their next chapter. I want to thank Incyte’s leadership for their commitment to Delaware.”

Incyte was founded in Delaware in 2002 and has grown steadily over the last 22 years. The company has its European headquarters in Switzerland and maintains commercial operations and offices in other European locales as well as in Asia and Canada. Since 2014, Incyte’s global headquarters has been a former Wanamaker’s department store site just outside the Wilmington city limits in Alapocas. That location, which has been expanded to include three buildings, currently houses the company’s corporate and research and development teams.

Expanding its offices to downtown Wilmington will create numerous benefits for Incyte – vacated office space at the Alapocas campus will be converted into much-needed lab space and will accommodate the company’s projected future growth. The City of Wilmington will also benefit from the resulting reduction in office vacancy and the new-to-Wilmington jobs, which will be skilled, technical and managerial positions with annual salaries ranging from over $90,000 to over $200,000.

Following the May 20 Council for Development Finance meeting, DPP’s Noah Olson, Becky Harrington and Kurt Foreman were joined by Andrew Harton and Regina Mitchell of the Delaware Division of Small Business; Sean Park and James Williams of the City of Wilmington Office of Economic Development; and Catalina Loveman, Kevin Davis and Tom Tray of Incyte.

“I am extremely pleased to welcome Incyte to Wilmington, a city historically known as the home of corporate innovation, creativity and development,” said Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki. “Incyte is a company with motivated leadership that is addressing complex health needs throughout the world. And now, that important work will be conducted from an expanded company location in our city, and we couldn’t be more excited. In addition to enhancing the Wilmington business community, Incyte will provide a wonderful boost to our local economy. I offer thanks and appreciation from our entire city to Chief Executive Officer Hervé Hoppenot and the Incyte team and Governor John Carney and the state team for working with the city to make this happen.”

“Delaware has been our home for more than 20 years, and we are looking forward to expanding our operations in Wilmington and continuing to grow our company here,” said Incyte Chief Executive Officer Hervé Hoppenot. “We are grateful to the continued support of the state, the city and others, including DPP, who have supported our company and fostered innovation and growth in our region.”

DPP worked with Incyte – collaborating with the State of Delaware, the City of Wilmington and other partners – to explore Delaware sites for expansion. DPP also supported the company’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $9,177,075 and a Capital Expenditure Grant of up to $5,670,000 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grants is dependent upon the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved Incyte’s request for up to $14,787,075 million in total funding.

“Incyte has been an innovative pillar of the Delaware business community since it was founded here in 2002, and Delaware Prosperity Partnership is pleased to support the company’s expansion into downtown Wilmington,” said Rod Ward, co-chair of DPP’s Board of Directors. “New jobs and capital investment of this project’s magnitude will provide a tremendous boost for the city and create opportunities that will benefit many Delaware families along with the community at large.”

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DPP contact: Susan Coulby, Senior Manager, Communications, 302-983-5710 (cell), scoulby@choosedelaware.com

State of Delaware contact: Emily Hershman, Director of Communications, Office of Governor Carney, 302-943-0097 (cell), Emily.Hershman@delaware.gov

City of Wilmington contact: John Rago, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mayor’s Office, 302-420-7928, jrago@WilmingtonDE.gov

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PSI Will Expand in Newark, Delaware

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Phase Sensitive Innovations Chooses Delaware for State-of-the-Art Lab, Manufacturing and R&D Expansion

DPP’s Erica Crell, Dr. Dennis Prather of PSI, DPP’s Noah Olson and Dr. Ahmed Sharkway of PSI following the April 22 CDF meeting.

Growth of veteran-owned, Newark-based company supports production of semiconductor components and other advanced technologies for DOD contracts and private-sector clients

April 24, 2024

WILMINGTON, Del. – Phase Sensitive Innovations – a veteran-owned, University of Delaware spinoff that specializes in radio-frequency components, devices and systems – has chosen to expand operations in its hometown of Newark, Delaware, to support its continued growth within the domestic defense and global semiconductor industries.

PSI will occupy an approximately 12,000-square-foot site along with its current 20,000-square-feet facility, both of which are located in Sandy Brae Industrial Park in Newark. Along with the physical expansion, PSI plans to expand staff from its current roster of 80 – all but three of whom are engineers – to more than 100 by the end of 2024 and add 30 to 40 more jobs in subsequent years

All of the new jobs will be highly skilled technical positions that provide a high degree of on-the-job training. PSI plans to continue recruiting locally from the University of Delaware and Delaware Technical Community College to fill these roles.

“It’s rewarding to see a Delaware-born company expand in its hometown, adding highly skilled jobs to our workforce and increasing manufacturing and lab space in Newark,” said Governor John Carney. “I’m pleased by Phase Sensitive Innovations’ work to recruit employees from our institutions of higher education. Those relationships and support from the Delaware Prosperity Partnership create a vibrant workforce and strengthen our economy in the First State.”

“I am thrilled Dr. Prather is going to continue expanding in Delaware,” said U.S. Senator Chris Coons. “Phase Sensitive Innovations is a remarkable innovative company that manufactures the next generation of technology which translates radio signals into optical signals in no small part because of their patent portfolio and great employees. Dr. Prather and his team of innovators have taken an incredible idea and turned it into a technology that is now contributing to the vibrancy of the Newark economy, the security of the United States and our global competitiveness. From my first meeting with Dennis in the basement of Evans Hall at UD, to my recent visit where I saw his facility in Newark bursting at the seams, PSI is one of the better examples of how strong IP, a great team of people and initial help from SBIRs and STTRs can help research move from the early development to rapidly scaling.”

PSI’s new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility will include more than 8,000 square feet of lab space and will focus on thin-film lithium niobate wafers and devices. This technology enables next-generation communications and radio frequency systems, and PSI is believed to be the only domestic supplier positioned to manufacture these items domestically. The expansion also will free up space in the original building that will be used to expand research and development operations.

PSI has received $110 million in ongoing Department of Defense contracts – extending across Army, Navy, Air Force and Office of the Undersecretary of Defense programs as well as related work with the National Air and Space Administration and the Department of Energy – and other transactional agreements since its founding in 2007. The company expects to book more than $20 million in additional contracts over the next year.

PSI also works directly with prime contractors and other commercial partners to manufacture state-of-the-industry photonic components. The company recently signed a transition agreement to manufacture and supply original equipment manufacturer components to a global leader in photonic components and aims to grow further in the commercial sector with advanced technologies for wireless communications, broadband, smart devices and other applications.

“Congratulations to Dennis Prather and the entire PSI team on the expansion of their facility in Newark,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “It’s critical to Delaware’s job market to retain successful homegrown businesses and to ensure success by creating more high-paying jobs right here in our community.”

DPP has consulted with PSI for several years and worked with the company since mid-2023 to explore growth opportunities. DPP supported PSI’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $139,800 and a Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $566,090 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grants is dependent upon the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved PSI’s request for up to $705,890 in total funding.

“Delaware is so well-placed – with a prime location in the Mid-Atlantic region – and it’s an untapped resource when it comes to technical talent,” said PSI President Dennis Prather, who is also a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Delaware and a veteran of the U.S. Naval Reserve and who founded PSI with fellow faculty member Christopher Schuetz. “We are very grateful to the State of Delaware for supporting the expansion of our manufacturing facility, which will enable PSI to become a major provider of a key technology to the defense and commercial sectors for years to come.”

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About Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Created in 2017, Delaware Prosperity Partnership (choosedelaware.com) is the nonprofit public/private organization that leads Delaware’s statewide economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent. To learn more about manufacturing and research and development in Delaware click here.

About Phase Sensitive Innovations

Phase Sensitive Innovations (PSI) is a small, high-technology company specializing in radio-frequency (RF) photonic devices, components and systems, with a particular focus on the millimeter wave (mmW) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. PSI produces high-quality and high-performance RF photonic devices, components and systems with applications that include mmW imaging and wireless communications systems such as 5G/B5G cellular, communications, radar and vision enhancement markets.

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FFI Ionix Chooses to Expand in Delaware

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Fortescue Subsidiary Chooses Delaware for Expansion that will Bring New Hydrogen Economy Jobs to Kent County

New FFI Ionix site in Dover is first Central Delaware location benefiting from state Graduated Lab Space Grant funding

February 26, 2024

WILMINGTON, Del. – FFI Ionix Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortescue, a global green technology, energy and metals company, has chosen Dover, Delaware, to base its operations to support global decarbonization and establishment of the hydrogen economy.

FFI Ionix, which focuses on hydrogen technologies, will relocate from its approximately 15,000-square-foot site in Harrington to 60 Starlifter Avenue within the city limits of Dover. More than 22,000 square feet of the new facility’s almost 57,000 square feet will be lab space.

The physical expansion at the new location also builds capacity for future job expansion, with the potential for new professional and semi-skilled positions, including engineers, lab technicians, chemists, quality control personnel and production and warehouse associates.

“FFI Ionix’s decision to stay and grow in our state is great news for Delaware and our leadership in the hydrogen economy,” said Governor John Carney. “We recently announced investments in downtown Dover, and this expansion will bring even more activity to our state’s capital. This is what the Graduated Lab Space Grants and Strategic Fund are for: keeping and growing innovative companies here in the First State.”

FFI Ionix is part of Fortescue, a company that ranks 414th on the Forbes Global 2000 list, but its origins were founded in Delaware as Xergy. Xergy won more than $10 million in research and development funding and patented more than 100 of its membrane and device innovations before being acquired by Fortescue and transformed into FFI Ionix in 2021.

FFI Ionix is a leader in next-generation electrolysis technology, such as anion exchange membrane (AEM), and is a commercial supplier of membranes for water electrolysis, electrochemical compression, water transmission and fuel cells. The company’s advanced ion-exchange membranes enable more efficient and cost-effective electrolysis, a crucial process for producing green hydrogen from water, and represents continued leadership in membrane research, development and production that benefits customers around the world.

Its focus on innovation in the hydrogen economy aligns with green hydrogen production goals set by the recently designated and federally funded Mid-Atlantic Hydrogen Hub (MACH2), in which Delaware companies will play key roles.

Over the last two years, Delaware Prosperity Partnership – assisted by Kent Economic Partnership and the City of Dover – helped FFI Ionix explore potential Delaware sites while the company also considered out-of-state options. DPP supported FFI Ionix’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $1,604,960; a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $70,400; and a Jobs Retention Grant of up to $42,500 from the Delaware Strategic Fund.

Distribution of these grants is dependent upon the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved FFI Ionix’s request for up to $1,717,860 in total funding. This marks the first time that a Graduated Lab Space Grant has been awarded for a site in Kent County (Central Delaware) since the program was piloted in 2021.

“This is very exciting for Dover and the greater Dover community,” said Dover Mayor Robin R. Christiansen. “Developing here reassures more jobs and more opportunities for our younger generations, in an industry with the potential to grow, all while decreasing our carbon footprint.”

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About Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Created in 2017, Delaware Prosperity Partnership (choosedelaware.com) is the nonprofit public/private organization that leads Delaware’s statewide economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent.

About FFI Ionix

FFI Ionix Inc. is a technology development company focused on global technology leadership and commercialization of hydrogen technologies, including ion-exchange membranes for water electrolysis, electrochemical compression, water transmission and fuel cells. The United States-based company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortescue, a global green technology, energy and metals company recognized for its culture, innovation and industry-leading development of infrastructure, mining assets and green energy initiatives.

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