Tag: Science and Technology

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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Compact Membrane Systems Chooses Del.

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Compact Membrane Systems* Chooses New Castle, Delaware, for $3.1M Expansion to Help Meet Market Demands

Expanding with 15,080 square feet of lab, other space will allow company to add 38 new full-time jobs, tripling current staff by 2026

WILMINGTON, Del.  – Compact Membrane Systems Inc. (CMS), a 30-year-old Delaware company whose advanced membrane systems address the challenge of decarbonizing heavy industry, has chosen New Castle, Delaware, for a $3.1 million facility and workforce expansion that will help address massive market demand.

CMS formerly operated completely out of a location on Water Street in Newport. The company recently moved much of its operations to a temporary site on Reads Way in New Castle near where construction on its new facility is ongoing. The expansion includes building 10,864 square feet of research and development and manufacturing-focused lab spaces along with more than 4,216 square feet of additional new space. The company also plans to add at least 38 new full-time employees to its current staff of 19 over the next three years.

“We’re grateful that Compact Membrane Systems will build on its 30-year history in our state,” said Governor John Carney. “CMS has an important mission to decarbonize heavy industry. Their decision to grow in Delaware will help make our environment more sustainable and add jobs to our state.”

Founded in Wilmington, Delaware, in 1993 by former DuPont scientist Stuart Nemser and now led by his daughter, CMS delivers technology solutions that capture and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, avert global warming and transform the industry into a long-term sustainable enterprise. With a massive shortage of membrane fiber needed to meet industry demands, CMS is expanding to help fill the growing needs of the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) market, which has tremendous growth potential in the fight against climate change.

CMS has been shifting from a small, research-based company utilizing federal grants for R&D projects to further its business objectives to a rapidly growing commercial entity with a double bottom line – marrying commercial success with social responsibility – by delivering innovative new products while also capturing and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As the company has evolved, including raising $16.5 million in a Series A venture capital round in 2023, CMS has investigated where best to continue its growth.

The company considered moving to locations closer to investors and potential customers, including Houston, Texas, and areas further West. However, CMS’s First State roots, history of hiring local talent and commitment to community involvement and sector leadership here helped drive its decision to continue to expand its engineering, manufacturing and sales footprint in Delaware.

“It’s vitally important we keep legacy companies like CMS in our communities growing and thriving,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “We have the talent right here in our state, and this expansion presents opportunities for our workforce to stay right here at home.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership supported CMS’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $760,480 and a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $115,000 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 CMS’s request.

“CMS has grown up as a Delaware company and, through this state support, is excited to cement our future in Delaware,” said Erica Nemser, CMS’s CEO, who also chairs the Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance Board. “We love the resources and opportunity Delaware has to offer, from excellent scientific and technical talent to the commitment to manufacturing advanced technology to address climate emissions.”

* Since the publication of this release, Compact Membrane Systems has rebranded as Ardent to reflect the company’s next chapter as an innovative, high-growth company ardently committed to accelerating decarbonization and transforming the global industrial and energy landscape.

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Delaware Hosts Hydrogen Hub Conference

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Carney, Carper, Coons, Blunt Rochester Host Energy Department at Hydrogen Hub Conference

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney, U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (all D-Del.) hosted U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Deputy Secretary David Turk at the Clean Hydrogen for the Mid-Atlantic Conference at the Chase Center on the Riverfront to discuss the economic and environmental benefits of clean hydrogen to Delaware with more than 300 stakeholders from around the region. In October, the DOE chose the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen (MACH2) proposal, a public-private partnership between Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and southern New Jersey, as one of seven regional clean hydrogen hubs. This designation came with a $750 million federal grant that was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Topics covered during the half-day event included how the hub would positively impact regional economies, public health, and the environment. Guests and panelists throughout the event included Bloom Energy’s Rick Buettel, Chesapeake Utilities’ Shane Breakie, First State Hydrogen’s Andrew Cottone, PBF Energy’s Matt Lucey, DART’s Michael McNeal, University of Delaware Center for Clean Hydrogen’s Yushan Yan, State Senator Stephanie Hansen (D), Cheyney University of Pennsylvania’s Pamela Keye, State Representative Larry Lambert (D), Steamfitters Local 420’s Jim Snell, and Delaware Workforce Development Board’s Joanna Staib.

MACH2 will advance President Biden’s goal of a 100% clean electrical grid by 2035 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, strengthen our nation’s energy security, and create an estimated 20,000 good-paying clean energy jobs, including union jobs. MACH2 will produce, distribute, and use clean hydrogen to power our vehicles, airplanes, industries, and more. The proposal was chosen largely due to the highly trained, unionized workforce in Delaware and the surrounding area, as well as the region’s strong manufacturing, chemical, and bioscience presence and existing infrastructure capable of transporting and storing hydrogen.

Mach2 logo

“Hydrogen hubs present a win-win-win for our climate, our communities and union workforce, and for the economy,” said David Turk, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Energy. “Clean hydrogen is the Swiss Army Knife of clean energy technologies. It can decarbonize some of our hardest-to-abate sectors, like heavy industry and transportation, and can provide long-duration energy storage. With this investment in the MACH2 Hub, DOE is eager to help build this indispensable network of hydrogen producers, consumers, and connective infrastructure in the region, while creating an estimated 20,000 jobs.”

“To be one of seven regional hydrogen hubs chosen by the U.S. Department of Energy – out of 79 that originally started the process – is a really big deal,” said Governor John Carney. “This designation will bring $750 million for Delaware and our partners in the region to build a clean energy industry that will create thousands of good union jobs. And Delaware communities are a significant part of this plan. The point of cleaner energy is to make things cleaner and better for people – especially those who live in disadvantaged communities. There will be an opportunity at each stage for the Delawareans to weigh in and shape these projects, and we encourage the public to participate.”

“Today’s conference brought together leaders from different levels of government, industry, labor, and academia to discuss how we are working together to grow the clean hydrogen energy sector in Delaware,” said Senator Tom Carper, Chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Clean hydrogen has a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping us meet our nation’s climate goals, while also creating good-paying jobs. Thanks to our region’s first-class labor workforce, existing infrastructure, and research and development capabilities, the future of the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub is bright.”

“As the nation’s lowest-lying state, Delaware faces particularly acute challenges from climate change-related natural disasters, and so a transition to energy sources like clean hydrogen is crucial for our state,” said Senator Chris Coons, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus. “To do that, we can’t leave behind the workers and the infrastructure and the systems that we’ve built. MACH2 is a critical opportunity to transition the skills of Delaware workers, upgrade the facilities of our local refineries and industrial pipelines and manufacturing facilities, and innovate, innovate, innovate. We have an opportunity here to show that we can transform, and that we can compete, and if we do that, we won’t just save our world and our climate – we will save our communities, as well.”

Clean Hydrogen for the Mid-Atlantic Conference logo with speakers and time.

“The big takeaway from today’s conference is that we all have a part to play in turning the vision of MACH2 into action – from elected officials and universities to businesses and environmental justice advocates – as we invest in clean hydrogen production and create-good-paying jobs in an equitable, just, and sustainable way,” said Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester, member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “Delaware has the ideal infrastructure, workforce, and positioning for the MACH2 framework, and I am eager to see the First State take its place at the center of our clean energy future.”

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DE Helps Region Earn Tech Hub Status

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Delaware Part of Greater Philadelphia Region Precision Medicine Tech Hub Designated by Biden-Harris Administration

Image by macrovector on Freepik

Area is one of 31 selected from nearly 400 applicants, is identified as ‘primed for technological innovation and job creation’ under President’s Investing in America agenda

WASHINGTON, DC — The Biden-Harris administration, through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), today announced the designation of 31 Tech Hubs in regions across the country, including the Greater Philadelphia Region Precision Medicine Tech hub encompassing Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania

This is the first phase of the new Tech Hubs program, which is an economic development initiative designed to drive regional innovation and job creation by strengthening a region’s capacity to manufacture, commercialize and deploy technology that will advance American competitiveness. The program invests directly in burgeoning, high-potential U.S. regions and aims to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers.

The Greater Philadelphia Region Precision Medicine Tech Hub, led by the Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern PA, aims to become a global leader in end-to-end precision medicine. This Tech Hub will leverage the region’s density of life sciences assets and research and development expertise to weave together disparate technology applications: biotechnology, medical technology, genomics, synthetic biology supported by artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and more. Together, these tech-enabled efforts will deliver new ways to diagnose, prevent and treat disease, increasing evidence-based technology applications that improve morbidity and mortality and decrease health disparities.

Tech Hubs was authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, a key part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, which he signed into law in August 2022. Winners are located across 32 states and Puerto Rico and represent a cross-section of urban and rural regions. Designation is an endorsement of the region’s plans to supercharge their respective technological industries to create jobs, strengthen U.S. competitiveness and protect national security. The Tech Hubs focus on industries ranging from autonomous systems, quantum computing, biotechnology, precision medicine, clean energy advancement, semiconductor manufacturing and more, and they highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration is investing in innovation and economic growth in every region of the United States.

The Phase 1 winners were selected from nearly 400 applications from regional consortia that include industry, academia, state and local governments, economic development organizations, and labor and workforce partners. As part of the Tech Hubs competition, each consortium outlined plans for strengthening its region’s capacity to manufacture, commercialize and deploy critical technologies.

These designated Tech Hubs may now apply to receive between $40 million and $70 million each for implementation funding, totaling nearly $500 million.

Read the full Tech Hubs announcement release here.

Read more about the Tech Hubs program here.

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RiKarbon Chooses to Grow in Delaware

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Homegrown environmental solutions firm RiKarbon chooses to continue growing in Newark, Delaware

Expansion of early-stage business focusing on carbon capture and utilization includes quadrupling lab space and creating 12 new full-time Delaware jobs

WILMINGTON, Del. (October 23, 2023) – RiKarbon Inc., an early-stage company specializing in developing innovative technologies for carbon capture and utilization, has chosen to continue growing in its hometown of Newark, Delaware, with an expansion from its Delaware Technology Park incubator space to nearby Delaware Industrial Park.

RiKarbon was founded in 2018 with support from a federal Small Business Innovation Research Grant from the Department of Energy and a mission to develop and commercialize sustainable proprietary technologies that capture and repurpose carbon emissions. The company has grown steadily since then, winning a 2019 Tech Connect Innovation Award, receiving several Delaware Technology Innovation Program Grants and outgrowing its 600 square feet of laboratory space in the startup incubator of Delaware Technology Park.

To maintain the momentum of its growth so far, RiKarbon will renovate and fit out 2,540 square feet of new chemical research and development lab space in a former electronic device manufacturing facility on Dawson Drive in Delaware Industrial Park. The company also will add 12 full-time positions to its current roster of six full-time employees and two part-time employees.

“We’re pleased that RiKarbon Inc. – a recognized leader in carbon capture – has chosen to expand in Delaware,” said Governor John Carney. “The company that started in a Delaware Technology Park incubator space will quadruple its square footage and add full-time jobs to continue to make Delaware a leader in the environmental space.”

The larger facility and staff will allow RiKarbon to continue its commercial scaleup of 100% bio-based oils for emollients to formulate personal care products, bio-poly-alpha-olefin base oils for performance lubricants, products for upcycled plastics manufacturing and other cost-competitive offerings for domestic and international markets. A recently announced partnership with BASF – the world’s largest chemical producer – includes bringing one of its emollient products to market by 2024. The company also has received letters of intent from global customers to deliver products and is now raising investment funding to do so.

“Congratulations to Delaware’s own RiKarbon, born right here in the First State, on their continued growth in the field of carbon capture,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “It’s with great pride that we can say this company was incubated right here in Newark and has chosen to continue to expand where the talent lies, right here in Delaware.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership supported RiKarbon’s request to the Council on Development Finance for a Graduated Lab Space Grant of up to $34,000 and a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $26,000 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 RiKarbon’s request.

“We are recreating similar ingredients that we use every day in our shampoo, conditioner, facial products or automotive engines, but making them in a socially responsible way from organic wastes that are causing environmental challenges globally,” said Basudeb Saha, president and CEO, RiKarbon. “It is very satisfying that we are able to deliver green and upcycled products to our customers to promote health and environmental efficacy while tackling climate challenges.”

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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 RiKarbon

RiKarbon (rikarbon.com) develops technologies for cost-competitive renewable products that use non-conventional and typically unused carbon feedstocks to serve the domestic and international specialty and performance chemicals market.

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Evernorth Will Grow Accredo In Delaware

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Evernorth Health Services to Expand Operations in Delaware with New 200,000-Square-Foot Specialty Pharmacy and Distribution Facility

WILMINGTON, Del. –  Evernorth Health Services, The Cigna Group’s health services business, has chosen Newark, Delaware, as the location of a new approximately 200,000-square-foot specialty pharmacy and distribution facility. Within the facility, Accredo, Evernorth’s specialty pharmacy, will dispense lifesaving medications to patients across the Northeast. Additionally, Evernorth intends for its specialty pharmaceutical distributor, CuraScript SD, to operate from the facility alongside Accredo and distribute specialty medications to health care providers who treat rare and complex conditions.

The Newark, Delaware, facility will expand and replace Accredo’s existing location in New Castle, Delaware, which it has operated since 2007. The facility will be staffed by nearly 90 existing Delaware employees consisting of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, warehouse associates, operations staff and more. Evernorth anticipates more than doubling the number of Delaware employees at the Newark facility over the next several years. These employees are dedicated to supporting patients diagnosed with some of the most rare and complex conditions known today, as well as providers who help treat these patients.

“Delaware is a health care hub for the Mid-Atlantic region. That’s one of the reasons Evernorth chose Delaware to grow their existing specialty pharmacy services and fulfillment facility,” said Governor John Carney. “We are pleased Evernorth plans to make a significant investment in the First State to expand their operations, which will enable the company to retain and add jobs over the next several years.”

“Congratulations to Accredo on their expansion in New Castle County,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “Increasing job opportunities here in the first county in the First State is important to continue to make our state a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership supported Evernorth’s request to Delaware’s Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Retention Grant, a Jobs Performance Grant, a Capital Expenditure Grant and a matching Training Grant.

“This new facility will help us meet the growing demand and need for specialty medications, which have risen by 280% over the past two decades,” said Matt Perlberg, President, Pharmacy, Evernorth Health Services. “Evernorth is a leader in specialty pharmacy, dispensing millions of medications to patients and providers every year. As more complex medications come to market in the years ahead, our expanding location in Delaware will enable us to more efficiently and effectively distribute these lifesaving medications to individuals throughout the country, particularly in the Northeast.”

“Delaware has been home to one of our Accredo specialty pharmacy facilities for many years, and we look forward to deepening and expanding our ties in the community as we develop our new location,” said Perlberg.

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 Evernorth Health Services

Evernorth Health Services creates pharmacy, care and benefits solutions to improve health and increase vitality. We relentlessly innovate to make the prediction, prevention and treatment of illness and disease more accessible to millions of people. Evernorth capabilities are powered by our businesses, including Express Scripts, Express Scripts® Pharmacy, Accredo, CuraScript SD, eviCore and MDLIVE, along with holistic Evernorth platforms and solutions that move people and organizations forward. All Evernorth solutions are serviced and provided by or through operating affiliates of Evernorth Health, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Cigna Group (NYSE: CI), or third-party partners. Learn more at evernorth.com.

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