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Stand By Me Minority Small Business Program 2024-02-27T19:49:11+00:00

We help minority business owners improve the way they do business so they can be a force for good in Delaware for years to come.

In Partnership With

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN DELAWARE

Build a Business That Inspires

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy. The Stand By Me Minority Small Business Program helps minority entrepreneurs improve the way they do business so that they can be a positive force in the community for years to come.

Learn from Experts

Work with an experienced business coach who gives new perspectives and accountability to help you achieve your goals.

Strengthen Your Business

Create processes and systems that help you wow customers, empower employees, and grow your bottom line.

Inspire. Influence. Drive Change.

Be a light in the community by providing good paying jobs and inspiring other people of color to become entrepreneurs.

19%
OF DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESSES ARE OWNED BY ETHNIC MINORITIES, EVEN THOUGH NEARLY 40% OF THE STATE’S POPULATION IS MADE UP OF RACIAL MINORITIES.

Owning a business is hard. Even the most seasoned leaders face challenges that can’t be tackled alone. But, while challenges impact every business, Delaware’s minority-owned and operated small businesses experience their own set of unique challenges. This statistic illustrates the reality of today, but it shouldn’t represent the reality of tomorrow.

Source: Delaware Small Business Economic Profile (link)

THE FUTURE IS NOW FOR

Delaware’s Minority Small Businesses

At Barclays and United Way of Delaware, we understand the important role small businesses play in our state. We believe local businesses should reflect our diverse communities – in ownership, employment, and ideas.

We created the Stand By Me – Minority Small Business Program to help minority business owners improve their operations and strengthen their financial performance, so that they can influence Delaware for years to come.

“Many thanks to Donna, Adam, Steve, the United Way and Barclays for believing and investing in our business and our vision!”
Khary Dewitt
PRESIDENT / OWNER

“This program has been such a great learning experience for our business as a whole. We can’t thank your organization enough for the opportunity and continued support we have from our coach “Ray” (Clarence Ray Parker).”

Cicely Hoey
Owner

“The time we are investing in the Minority Small Business program has been so valuable, and our coach, Steve Johnson, is phenomenal. We are very grateful to receive this kind of support and mentoring.”

Gary Carter
PRINCIPAL / CEO

A CLOSER LOOK

What Do Leaders Get?

Entrepreneurs accepted into the Stand By Me Minority Small Business Program receive no-cost coaching and support services to help them achieve their business goals.

Coaching

Leaders work with an experienced business coach, who mentors them for the duration of the program. Coaches offer financial guidance, new perspectives, creative insights, and proven processes to help them achieve their goals.

Training & Certifications

Coaches help participants qualify for minority business certifications, which opens doors to special training, access to grants and government contracts, and potential business partnerships.

Networking

Build partnerships with minority business leaders from across Delaware. MSB entrepreneurs work in dozens of industries and represent communities throughout New Castle, Kent, and Sussex Counties.

People speaking at a networking meeting.

Monetary Incentives

Special monetary incentives are available to entrepreneurs who meet or exceed program goals. In the past, Barclays and United Way of Delaware have given high achieving participants grants aimed to help grow business revenue.