The Division will provide up to $200,000 in matching funds to its FY25 arts organization grantees in conjunction with the event

 

Statewide, Del. (February 19, 2025) – The Delaware Division of the Arts is proud to support Delaware’s vibrant arts sector by participating in Do More 24 Delaware, the state’s largest day of giving, on March 6-7, 2025. As part of this initiative, the Division will provide up to $200,000 in matching funds to its FY2025 arts organization grantees, encouraging individual philanthropy and maximizing the impact of every donation made through the DoMore24Delaware.org platform.

For the fifth consecutive year, the Division’s “stretch pool” will reward grantees based on the dollars raised and the number of unique donations received during the 24-hour fundraising period, which begins at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, and concludes at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 7. Do More 24 Delaware is organized by United Way of Delaware and Spur Impact Association, driving community-wide support for nonprofit organizations across the state.

The Power of Individual Giving

Jessica Ball, Director of the Delaware Division of the Arts, emphasizes the role of individual philanthropy in sustaining the arts: “Every dollar given by an individual donor is a powerful investment in Delaware’s creative economy. These gifts not only fuel artistic innovation and accessibility but also help unlock additional resources through our matching fund initiative. By participating in Do More 24 Delaware, donors directly contribute to the cultural vitality of our state, ensuring that the arts continue to inspire, educate, and bring communities together.”

Charlie Vincent, Executive Director of Spur Impact, echoes this sentiment: “The arts play a crucial role in shaping our communities, and individual donors are the backbone of this support. The Delaware Division of the Arts’ continued investment in Do More 24 Delaware amplifies the generosity of our community, stretching every contribution further to sustain and grow Delaware’s creative sector. We are excited to see how Delawareans come together once again to champion the arts and other essential nonprofit causes.”

Why Individual Philanthropy Matters

In 2024, Do More 24 Delaware helped raise over $2.3 million from more than 20,000 unique donors for over 500 Delaware nonprofits. The Division’s matching funds allow every individual donation—no matter the size—to have a greater impact, reinforcing the idea that philanthropy is not just for major donors, but for anyone who wants to contribute to the arts.

To find and support participating Delaware arts organizations or explore the full list of 500+ nonprofits taking part in Do More 24 Delaware, visit the Find a Cause to Support page at DoMore24Delaware.org.

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About the Delaware Division of the Arts

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is dedicated to cultivating and supporting the arts to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. For more information, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.

About Do More 24 Delaware

Founded by United Way of Delaware in 2016, Do More 24 Delaware is a one-day statewide fundraising event in which nonprofits compete in a friendly, 24-hour campaign to raise essential funds. In 2019, Spur Impact joined the effort, expanding Delaware’s largest giving day. Nonprofits use creative outreach strategies to engage supporters, while additional cash incentives from corporate and foundation donors help drive further impact.

About United Way of Delaware

Founded in 1946, United Way of Delaware (UWDE) advances community well-being by focusing on key impact areas: Grade Level Reading, College and Career Success, and Financial Empowerment. UWDE leads a long-term strategy to eliminate the root causes of pressing social challenges in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties, as well as Salem County, New Jersey. Learn more at www.uwde.org, follow @UnitedWayDE on Twitter, or visit UnitedWayofDelaware on Facebook.

About Spur Impact Association

Spur Impact Association is a Delaware-based nonprofit that develops and connects emerging leaders with nonprofits, businesses, and opportunities that drive personal, professional, and philanthropic growth. Spur Impact hosts #MILLSUMMIT, one of the fastest-growing young professional hybrid conferences, and manages DEGives.org, a free online donation platform supporting Delaware nonprofits. Learn more at SpurImpact.org.

DOVER, DE – Delaware’s adult-use marijuana market is advancing in accordance with legislative mandates, following essential updates and a rigorous licensing process.

In 2023, Delaware enacted legislation legalizing an adult-use recreational marijuana market and outlining a structured system for cultivators, manufacturers, retailers, and testing laboratories, with a strong emphasis on social equity applicants.

The law created the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) to oversee the program and develop an extensive regulatory framework. Proposed regulations were issued in May 2024, and finalized in September 2024 after two rounds of public commentary. These regulations outline the licensing and operational requirements and are published under the 5001 Rules of the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner.

Recognizing the legal challenges faced by other states, the General Assembly enacted additional measures in 2024. In July 2024, House Bill 334 expanded program requirements and House Bill 408 established a pathway for existing medical marijuana establishments to transition into the adult-use market. These entities were permitted to apply for a conversion license at substantial cost—$200,000 for cultivation and $100,000 for manufacturing or retail—generating $4 million in critical funding for social equity applicant start-up grants. These conversion licenses are not yet active. Social equity grant applications will be accessible in March 2025, with detailed application procedures mailed directly to eligible applicants.

The OMC has also worked closely with state agencies to ensure a seamless implementation in Delaware. Collaborating with the Department of Technology and Information (DTI), an online application platform was developed. Concurrently, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) procured a seed-to-sale tracking system, and the Division of Revenue (DOR) established a Retail Sales Tax framework. These efforts ensure transparency, regulatory compliance, and the orderly administration of the licensing process.

OMC officials have also actively engaged with communities statewide, participating in meetings in Fenwick Island, Seaford, Lewes, Milford, Dover, Georgetown, Newark, Wyoming, Camden, and multiple county and municipal councils to advocate for local support of the legal market. Additionally, OMC has engaged with the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, Lewes Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Delaware League of Local Governments to provide resources and outreach to those opening their business within the industry.

To further promote equity and compliance, OMC has conducted four social equity workshops—one in each county and one in Wilmington—alongside four Division of Revenue tax workshops in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties.

A total of 1,271 applications were received for 125 licenses available across 11 categories. Following an initial review for minimum standards, 1,256 applications proceeded to the lottery phase. The first lottery was conducted on October 24, 2024, with a subsequent lottery held on December 19, 2024, due to overwhelming demand for retail licenses (529 applications for just 15 retail permits).

Selected applicants were required to submit extensive documentation for a comprehensive financial and background investigation, including:

• Income tax transcripts;
• Authorization for the release of financial and background information from all financial institutions;
• Disclosure of long-term debt obligations;
• Details of financial institution relationships over the past 10 years;
• Disclosure of any bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings within the past 10 years;
• Business history, including current and former operations over the past 10 years;
• Civil litigation history, including all settled or closed legal actions within the past three years;
• Any history of license denials, suspensions, or revocations in Delaware or other jurisdictions within the past 10 years.

After the final lottery, selected applicants had until February 10, 2025, to submit all required documentation and attestations to complete the mandatory background check.

Of the selected applicants, 44 licenses are awarded to women. Based on self-reported data, the racial/ethnic breakdown of license recipients is as follows: 19 to Asians, 35 to Black or African Americans, 6 to Hispanics, and 7 listed their race as “other.”

The newly established Marijuana Enforcement Unit within the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement (DATE) is currently conducting background investigations on applicants meeting all requirements. These investigations include detailed financial, tax, civil, and criminal background reviews for any individual holding a 10% or greater ownership stake in a marijuana establishment. In accordance with Delaware law, all licensees must undergo fingerprinting for both state and federal background checks. The OMC’s application for fingerprinting authorization is pending final approval from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Upon successful completion of the background review, selected applicants will be issued conditional licenses and granted an 18-month period to become fully operational.

OMC’s first Commissioner, Robert Coupe, provided extensive updates about the licensing process at every opportunity, including during Delaware Marijuana Control Act Oversight Committee meetings. Commission meetings and links to the minutes are available on the public meeting calendar.

The OMC remains committed to implementing a well-regulated, compliant, and equitable adult-use marijuana market in Delaware. Further updates will be provided as the market launch progresses.

 

After receiving our first accumulating snow in nearly two years, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s “Name That Plow” contest!

The creative and fun names submitted by elementary school students across Delaware are a testament to their imagination and appreciation for the dedicated work of DelDOT’s snowplow operators and technicians.

The 2025 winners are:
Sussex County: Blizzard Wizard by John M. Clayton Elementary
Kent County: Plowana by Fairview Elementary
New Castle County: Ctrl Salt Delete by Jennie Smith Elementary

This marks the fourth year of the “Name That Plow” contest, which invites K-5 students to participate in celebrating DelDOT’s hard-working snow removal crews. Their efforts ensure safer roads for everyone during winter storms.

The Delaware Department of Transportation Secretary Shanté Hastings shared her excitement, saying: “We love seeing the creativity of Delaware’s young minds in this contest! Our snowplows and employees have been busy this January with back-to-back storms, and these clever names are a great way to honor their hard work and dedication to keeping our roads clear and safe.”

DelDOT has more than 400 pieces of snow removal equipment statewide and is responsible for treating and plowing almost 14,000 lane miles of roadway. Visit the DelDOT Snow FAQ webpage for details. DelDOT also offers its snowplow tracker during winter storm events on deldot.gov and the DelDOT mobile app.

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, State of Delaware offices in New Castle County will open at 10 a.m. Non-essential employees who live or work in New Castle County should report to work by 10 a.m. Essential employees designated for severe weather are to report as scheduled. State of Delaware offices in Kent and Sussex Counties will operate on their regular schedule.

Twenty-one Delaware Artists Receive Funding In Recognition of Artist Excellence

 

Statewide, Del. (January 28, 2025) – The Delaware Division of the Arts is proud to recognize 21 exceptional Delaware artists as the 2025 Individual Artist Fellows, awarding a total of $158,000 to support their creative pursuits. This year’s application cycle saw an unprecedented 191 applications from musicians, writers, and folk, media, and visual artists across the state. A panel of out-of-state arts professionals rigorously reviewed work samples, evaluating creativity and artistic excellence. The 2025 Fellows represent a diverse range of artistic disciplines and communities, hailing from Bear, Clayton, Dagsboro, Lewes, Milton, Newark, New Castle, Rehoboth Beach, Smyrna, and Wilmington. Fellowships were awarded in three categories: Master (1), Established (11), and Emerging (9), with an additional 13 runners-up recognized for their talent.

Awards are given in three categories: $12,000 for the Masters Award, $8,000 for the Established Professional Award, and $5,000 for the Emerging Professional Award. Fellows are required to offer at least one exhibit or performance during the upcoming year, providing an opportunity for the public to experience their work.

“Individual Artist Fellowship grants recognize Delaware artists for their outstanding work and commitment to artistic excellence. Our commitment to Delaware’s individual artists is at the heart of our work, and this year we’re thrilled to expand our support by increasing the funding pool for the Individual Artist Fellowships by 15%,” says Jessica Ball, Director of the Delaware Division of the Arts. “In response to the unprecedented number of applications, we are introducing a cohort of runners-up who will each receive an honorarium to recognize even more talented artists for their exceptional work and dedication to their craft.”

“Providing unrestricted funding to artists through the Individual Artist Fellowships allows them the flexibility to invest in their craft, explore new ideas, and focus on their work without financial constraints. These grants not only support individual growth but also enrich communities and contribute to the local economy by fostering a thriving cultural ecosystem,” says Program Officer Roxanne Stanulis.

The Masters Fellowship is open to rotating artistic disciplines each year. For 2025, Masters Fellowship applications were accepted in Literary Arts and Media Arts from artists who had previously received an Established Professional Fellowship. In addition to exemplifying high artistic quality, Masters Fellowship applicants must demonstrate their involvement and commitment to the arts in Delaware and beyond.

Viet Dinh is the DDOA 2025 Master Fellow in the field of Literature: Fiction. Dinh was born in Vietnam and grew up in Colorado. He attended Johns Hopkins University and the University of Houston and currently teaches at the University of Delaware. He has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Delaware Division of the Arts, as well as an O. Henry Prize. His stories have appeared in Zoetrope: All-Story, Witness, Fence, Five Points, Chicago Review, the Threepenny Review, and the Greensboro Review, and his debut novel, “After Disasters,” was released in 2016.

Listed below are the Delaware Division of the Arts 2025 Individual Artist Fellows:

Masters Fellow

Viet Dinh, Literature: Fiction, Newark

 

Established Fellows

Judy Catterton, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Rehoboth Beach

Geraldo Gonzalez, Visual Arts: Works on Paper, Wilmington

Ananya Goswami, Dance: Choreography, Bear

Makeda Hampton, Music: Solo Recital, New Castle

Linda Susan Jackson, Literature: Poetry, Smyrna

Dennis Lawson, Literature: Fiction, Newark

Nadjah Nicole, Music: Contemporary Performance, Wilmington

Damon Pla, Visual Arts: Painting, Dagsboro

Rob Sample, Visual Arts: Painting, Clayton

Adam Vidiksis, Music: Composition, Wilmington

Shannon Woodloe, Visual Arts: Photography, Wilmington

 

Emerging Fellows

Paula Brown, Visual Arts Painting, Wilmington

Renita Coursey, Folk Art: Visual Arts, Wilmington

Irene Fick, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Lewes

Don James, Visual Arts: Photography, Milton

Tim Lynch, Literature: Poetry, Wilmington

Maximillian Remmler, Media Arts: Video/Film, Newark

August Ryan, Literature: Fiction, Wilmington

Shana Starks aka “Blue Tulip”, Music: Contemporary Performance, Wilmington

Benjamin Wagner, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Wilmington

 

Runners Up

Mary Jane Arden, Visual Arts: Works on Paper, Wilmington

Jamie Brown, Literature: Poetry, Milton

Kimberly Burnett, Literature: Fiction, Rehoboth Beach

Gale Cornelia Flynn, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Hockessin

Alexander Hill, Literature: Poetry, Middletown

L. Jackola, Literature: Fiction. Middletown

Blazo Kovacevic, Visual Arts: Interdisciplinary, Newark

Jennifer Lang, Music: Solo Recital, Wilmington

Judith Loeber, Visual Arts: Painting, Millsboro

Chris Morrow, Folk Art: Music, Lewes

Kiandra Parks, Media Arts: Video/Film, Wilmington

Christina Peters, Visual Arts: Photography, Newark

Aki Torii, Visual Arts: Sculpture, Wilmington

 

To contact an individual artist, please email or call: Roxanne Stanulis, Program Officer, Artist Programs and Services, Roxanne.Stanulis@delaware.gov or 302-577-8283.

The next deadline for 2026 Individual Artist Fellowship applications will be Thursday, August 1, 2025 by 11:59 p.m.

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About the Delaware Division of the Arts
The Delaware Division of the Arts is an agency of the State of Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Funding for Division programs is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.

About Mid Atlantic Arts
Mid Atlantic Arts supports artists, presenters, and organizations through unique programming, grant support, partnerships, and information sharing. Created in 1979, Mid Atlantic Arts is aligned with the region’s state arts councils and the National Endowment for the Arts. We combine state and federal funding with private support from corporations, foundations, and individuals to nurture diverse artistic expression while connecting people to meaningful arts experiences within our region and beyond. To learn more about Mid Atlantic Arts visit https://www.midatlanticarts.org/.

Contact: Andrew Truscott, Program Officer, Marketing and Communications

302-577-8280, andrew.truscott@delaware.gov