WELCOME TO DELAWARE
Delaware, the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, has long been a hub for both business and quality of life. Its strategic Mid-Atlantic location, pro-business climate, modern infrastructure, and skilled workforce makes it an attractive destination for employers to start a business, relocate, or expand. Known widely as the "Incorporation Capital of the World," Delaware is home to more than two-thirds of the Fortune 500 due to its advanced and flexible formation statute, world-renowned Court of Chancery, and efficient and accessible government. The First State is also rich in experiences. From historic sites to beautiful beaches, tax-free shopping, and a vibrant culinary scene, Delaware offers something for everyone.
MEET DELAWARE'S 76TH GOVERNOR
Governor Matt Meyer is a former public school math teacher and small business owner who served as New Castle County Executive from 2017 through January 2025. As the leader of Delaware’s largest local government, Matt proved that government can still work for the people–delivering real results for real people and making real progress for Delaware’s working families. Governor Meyer will bring that same result-driven leadership across our state by creating an effective government that reflects our values and priorities.
Growing up in Delaware, Matt attended schools in the Brandywine School District, followed by Wilmington Friends School, and then studied Computer Science & Political Science at Brown University. He then moved to Nairobi, Kenya, where he learned Swahili and created Ecosandals, a recycled footwear company that sold environmentally friendly footwear to customers in 17 countries on five continents. Matt subsequently spent 12 months in Mosul, Iraq, as a diplomat embedded with the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. |
MEET OUR FEDERAL DELEGATION
U.S. SENATOR CHRIS COONS | Website >
U.S. SENATOR LISA BLUNT ROCHESTER | Website >
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE SARAH MCBRIDE | Website >
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VISITING THE FIRST STATE
From the rolling hills of Delaware's "Chateau Country" in the Brandywine Valley to the pristine beaches of southern Delaware, and everywhere in between, Delaware has what you are looking for. Here are some resources to get you started:
VisitDelaware.com | LiveLoveDelaware.com | DEStateParks.com
VisitDelaware.com | LiveLoveDelaware.com | DEStateParks.com
NEW CASTLE COUNTY
Discover the Brandywine Valley, where grand estates transport you to the French countryside and Wilmington’s vibrant dining scene serves up flavors from around the world. Stroll the charming, colonial streets of New Castle and Odessa, reminiscent of storybook English villages. And just minutes apart, explore six breathtaking gardens—spanning over 3,000 acres—that proudly shine as part of America’s Garden Capital. VisitWilmingtonDE.com >
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KENT COUNTY
Just a quick drive from major metropolitan hubs, Central Delaware is a destination full of unexpected delights. Wander the historic streets of Dover—our state’s capital—where history and culture come alive. Feel the rush at the world-famous NASCAR track, and don’t miss the excitement of the annual Delaware State Fair, a summer tradition that brings the community together with food, music, and fun. VisitCentralDelaware.com >
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SUSSEX COUNTY
Sussex County offers the best of coastal living, from vibrant beach resorts to charming seaside and riverside towns. With championship golf courses and a celebrated Culinary Coast of acclaimed chefs and restaurants, the region is perfect for relaxation and indulgence. Add in tax-free shopping at boutiques, art and antique galleries, farmers markets, and outlet centers, and Sussex delivers something special for every traveler. VisitSouthernDelaware.com >
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START, RELOCATE, OR EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS
How to start a business in Delaware | Delaware One Stop >
Form your new business entity | Delaware Division of Corporations >
Start and scale your business | Delaware Small Business Development Center >
Resources and funding to grow your business | Delaware Division of Small Business >
Location assistance, site selection, and funding opportunities | Delaware Prosperity Partnership >
Grow your business globally | Export Delaware >
Form your new business entity | Delaware Division of Corporations >
Start and scale your business | Delaware Small Business Development Center >
Resources and funding to grow your business | Delaware Division of Small Business >
Location assistance, site selection, and funding opportunities | Delaware Prosperity Partnership >
Grow your business globally | Export Delaware >
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MOVING TO DELAWAREDelaware offers a uniquely appealing lifestyle that combines affordability, convenience, and variety. With no sales tax and a comparatively low cost of living, residents enjoy greater value in everyday life. The state’s strategic Mid-Atlantic location places major metropolitan hubs within easy reach—just 40 minutes from Philadelphia, about an hour from Baltimore, and less than two hours from Washington, D.C. and New York City—while still providing the comfort and charm of smaller-town living. From vibrant beach communities to historic neighborhoods and cultural destinations, Delaware delivers a diverse range of high-quality options for work, leisure, and family life.
Guide to getting settled in Delaware | State of Delaware > Realtor and relocation information for Northern Delaware | Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau > Cost of Living Calculator | Live Love Delaware > |
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FIRST STATE FACTS
The First State | Delaware is known by this nickname due to the fact that on December 7, 1787, it became the first of the 13 original states to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
State Capital | Dover
3 Counties | New Castle (northernmost), Kent (central), and Sussex (southernmost)
Colors | Colonial buff and blue
State Song | “Our Delaware”
Motto | "Liberty and Independence"
Nicknames | First State; Diamond State; Blue Hen State; Small Wonder; Home of Tax-Free Shopping; Peach State; Corporate Capital; Chemical Capital
Delawareans | The first known inhabitants of Delaware were two tribes of Native Americans: the Lenni Lenape and the Nanticoke.
Shopping | Delaware is one of five states with no sales tax.
Size | Delaware is the second smallest state in geographic size, with a total area of 1,982 square miles and at its narrowest point, only 9 miles wide.
President | Delaware is home to one the nation's presidents, Joe Biden. Former President Biden represented Delaware for 36 years in the U.S. Senate before becoming the 47th Vice President of the United States in 2009. He was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on January 20, 2021.
State Capital | Dover
3 Counties | New Castle (northernmost), Kent (central), and Sussex (southernmost)
Colors | Colonial buff and blue
State Song | “Our Delaware”
Motto | "Liberty and Independence"
Nicknames | First State; Diamond State; Blue Hen State; Small Wonder; Home of Tax-Free Shopping; Peach State; Corporate Capital; Chemical Capital
Delawareans | The first known inhabitants of Delaware were two tribes of Native Americans: the Lenni Lenape and the Nanticoke.
Shopping | Delaware is one of five states with no sales tax.
Size | Delaware is the second smallest state in geographic size, with a total area of 1,982 square miles and at its narrowest point, only 9 miles wide.
President | Delaware is home to one the nation's presidents, Joe Biden. Former President Biden represented Delaware for 36 years in the U.S. Senate before becoming the 47th Vice President of the United States in 2009. He was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States on January 20, 2021.