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Wilmington, DE

Our next M&T Bank Small Business Accelerator Program is being held in Wilmington, DE in partnership with Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce. The program will begin May 6th, 2026, and run through June 24th, 2026. 

Don’t miss out on applying!
Registration is open till April 19th, 2026.
Applications are first come, first served.

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Program Highlights

The M&T Bank Small Business Accelerator Program is an intensive weeks-long program designed to develop a diverse set of businesses. The Lab promotes business and financial inclusion through empowerment, providing owners with access to information, tools, resources, and connections they need to grow and thrive. Participants are presented with tools and opportunities to increase their visibility, accelerate their business, and achieve success.

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Creating a Business Plan

Learn what it takes to create an effective business plan through discussion on setting goals, knowing your industry, what finances you have in place, and much more!

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All About Credit

Curious about credit and how it can affect your business? As part of M&T Bank Small Business Accelerator Program, we will dive into the importance of credit, accessing capital and how you package your credit application.

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Marketing & Branding

Learn how to make your business stand-out among the competition through an in-depth discussion on branding and marketing so you can be prepared to get the word out on your diverse business. 

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Pitch Tips

You have everything that you need to scale and grow your business, but your business needs funding. As part of the series, we will provide you tips and tricks when presenting to potential investors. Learn how to present with ease and how to make your business plan shine.

Accelerator Program Overview

This program celebrates and empowers locally owned small businesses through education and spirited competition. For this edition, we're partnering with the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce. This 8-week program will be held at:


Elwyn Building
321 E 11th St (3rd Floor),
Wilmington, DE 19801

Register Now

Program Eligibility

Open to existing small business owners who meet the following criteria:

  • Business located in Wilmington, DE & surrounding towns
  • Annual revenue of $50,000 - $500,000
  • Business in operation between 2-5 years
  • Principal owner must be 18 years or older
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Schedule

  • Registration: March 16 to April 19, 2026
  • Applications will be decisioned on or around April 21, 2026
  • Classes run every Wednesday from 6-8 pm ET
    • Beginning: May 6, 2026
    • Ending: June 24, 2026
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Curriculum

  • Business Planning 
  • Credit Fundamentals
  • Marketing & Branding
  • Networking & Community Resources
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Live Pitch Competition

  • Prizes:
    • 1st place - $5,000
    • 2nd place - $3,000
    • 3rd place - $2,000

Total Prize Amount: $10,000

FAQS

You must be a resident of the city where the lab is being held. Please refer to the specific location terms and conditions.

Yes, the principal owner needs to be a permanent legal resident of Wilmington, DE (and surrounding towns).  See Terms and Conditions.

To qualify, the principal owner must be 18 years or older, a permanent legal of the greater Wilmington area, be in business between 2-5 years. See Terms and Conditions.

To register, please review the Terms and Conditions. If eligible, you can enter here.