Delaware Small Business Resources

1Check and Reserve Your Name

Search the Secretary of State or Corporations Division database to confirm the name is distinguishable. Many states offer optional name reservations (60–120 days).

If you operate across states, compare naming rules with Alabama and Connecticut for multi-state consistency.

2Appoint a Registered Agent

Choose an individual or professional service with a physical in-state address to accept legal documents during business hours.

3File Formation Documents

Submit Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (Corporation) through the state portal. Foreign entities need a certificate of authority before operating.

See fully built guides like North Dakota and Tennessee for sequencing across multiple states.

4Create Internal Governance

Draft an operating agreement (LLC) or bylaws (corporation) covering ownership, management, voting, and distributions. Banks often request these documents for account opening.

5Obtain an EIN

Apply for a free Employer Identification Number via the IRS EIN Assistant. Required for payroll and most business bank accounts.

6Register for State Tax Accounts

Set up sales tax (if applicable), employer withholding, and unemployment insurance accounts with revenue and workforce agencies. File on the assigned monthly, quarterly, or annual schedule.

Use this sequence along with examples in California and Alabama to align multi-state compliance.

7Secure Licenses & Local Approvals

Check statewide professional licenses and city/county business licenses. Confirm zoning, signage, and health/safety rules before operating in a physical location or from home.

8Open Business Banking

Use your approved formation documents, EIN confirmation, and operating agreement/bylaws to open dedicated business accounts and keep finances separate.

9Maintain Compliance

• File annual or biennial reports with the state on your anniversary month.
• Renew professional licenses and local permits before expiration.
• Keep sales tax and payroll filings up to date; store confirmations.

• Use the state licensing portal or professional licensing agency for credentialed trades (healthcare, contractors, financial services, cosmetology).
• Confirm alcohol, tobacco, transportation, and environmental permits where applicable.
• Search municipal and county resources for business licenses or tax certificates.

• Most cities/counties require a business license or registration before opening.
• Brick-and-mortar locations often need zoning clearance plus building or fire inspections.
• Home-based businesses may need a home occupation permit and must follow parking/signage limits.

• Construction: Confirm contractor licensing, bonding, and permits in every jurisdiction served.
• Food & Beverage: Local health permits and potential alcohol licensing; maintain food safety training where required.
• E-commerce & Retail: Register for sales tax; review marketplace facilitator rules if selling on large platforms.

• State economic development and SSBCI programs may offer loan guarantees, credit support, or tax incentives.
• SBA 7(a) and 504 loans are available through approved lenders; connect with local SBA offices.
• Workforce training or job creation credits can reduce hiring costs; verify current eligibility and timelines.

Use detailed examples in Alabama, California, and Connecticut to compare incentive structures.

• City and county revolving loan funds, especially in redevelopment or opportunity areas.
• University, accelerator, or industry-led seed funds for technology, manufacturing, and life sciences.
• Grants or rebates for energy efficiency, sustainability, or broadband and rural development projects.

• Sales and use tax registration if selling taxable goods or services; collect and remit at the combined state/local rate.
• Employer payroll taxes for withholding and unemployment insurance; file quarterly reports.
• Annual or biennial business entity reports and franchise/corporate income tax filings where applicable.

• Entity reports: due annually or every two years in the anniversary month (varies by state and entity type).
• Sales tax: monthly, quarterly, or annual depending on liability.
• Payroll: quarterly wage reports and deposits based on frequency assigned by the state.

Technology & Innovation

Tap into incubators, accelerators, and research universities for mentorship, pilot programs, and early-stage capital.

Manufacturing & Logistics

Look for workforce training grants, export assistance, and foreign trade zone benefits to support production and distribution.

Food, Agriculture, and Retail

Coordinate with local health departments for permits, and explore USDA or state grants for processing, packaging, and rural development.

• Regional chambers and industry associations host procurement roundtables, job fairs, and training sessions.
• Startup accelerators and pitch events connect founders with investors and corporate innovation teams.
• Export and trade workshops via SBDC, SBA, and local trade development centers.