Lieutenant governor meets with small business leaders across the state

To identify new opportunities for cross-sector collaboration to strengthen Delaware’s economy and communities at large, Lt. Gov. Kyle Evans Gay sat down with nearly 100 small business owners across all three counties in a week’s time.

“Delaware's small businesses serve communities across our state, and their commitment to invest in the First State should not go unnoticed,” said Gay. “Through these roundtables I learned more about how the state can better support our small business owners. Across counties and sectors, there is much to celebrate, but certain barriers to success demonstrate that there is still much to be done. We will build from these conversations – connecting partners, expanding resources and creating solutions to enhance the small business experience and ultimately drive Delaware forward.”

In partnership with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce, Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce and New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, the roundtable conversations covered top-of-mind issues for small business owners such as accessing funding opportunities, workforce recruitment and retention, regulatory barriers, and childcare and education needs across the state.  
 
“Relationships are the Delaware Way. Every time we take the time to sit with our neighbors to discuss work and life challenges, whether over coffee, in a boardroom, at the beach or in the capital, we are able to create meaningful solutions,” said Lauren Weaver, Bethany-Fenwick chamber executive director. “Like a car that cannot operate without a driver and engine, Delaware cannot thrive if government leaders and small business owners do not collaborate with each other. We are grateful for the opportunity to sit down with Lt. Gov. Gay and look forward to more conversations as we build toward progress together.”
 
Each discussion expanded beyond specific geographic and sector issues, focusing on statewide efforts to tackle large-scale policy challenges in education, healthcare, public safety and other policy areas. Participants emphasized the importance of fostering thriving communities to best support their goals to further invest in the First State.  

Gay also took part in intimate conversations with members of the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce and La Plaza Delaware to further identify comprehensive solutions to account for the unique experiences of diverse small business owners throughout the state. 

In these spaces, Gay affirmed her commitment in leveraging her office initiatives and partnerships to uplift the successes and tackle the challenges facing Delaware’s vast small business community.