Scoping Professional Services for EDGE Grant Program

The Delaware Department of State's Division of Small Business is seeking professional scoping services for the Encouraging Development, Growth, and Expansion (EDGE) Grant Program through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) with contract number STA25102-EDGE_SCOPE. The procurement aims to secure a vendor capable of providing comprehensive support services for EDGE program finalists, including detailed business assessments, service provider matchmaking, and comprehensive impact reporting. Proposing organizations must demonstrate extensive experience in conducting small business evaluations, particularly with early-stage companies and underserved communities. The RFP includes rigorous evaluation criteria weighted across four key areas: demonstrated scoping services experience (30 points), capacity to deliver wraparound support services (30 points), administrative and compliance reporting capabilities (20 points), and diversity and inclusion elements (20 points). Critical proposal submission deadlines include an October 16, 2025 proposal due date, with anticipated award notification on October 23, 2025. The contract term is structured for one year with potential for two additional one-year extensions, allowing for sustained program support.

The procurement appears open to qualified organizations without specific set-aside designations, though vendors must provide comprehensive documentation including business licenses and insurance proof. Since the EDGE program's launch in 2019, it has awarded $5.6 million to 100 Delaware small businesses across various industries, indicating a robust existing infrastructure and program history. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the procurement suggests a focus on organizations with robust capabilities in providing technical assistance, creating tailored action plans, and generating comprehensive reporting. Proposing organizations will need to showcase their ability to support underrepresented founders and provide wraparound services that align with the Division of Small Business's strategic objectives. The RFP emphasizes a holistic approach to supporting small businesses, with particular attention to organizations that can demonstrate measurable impact and comprehensive support mechanisms for early-stage companies.