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On February 1, 2026, Delaware Governor John Smith signed into law a series of bills aimed at supporting small businesses in the state. The new legislation, collectively known as the Small Business Support Act, includes measures to provide financial assistance, streamline regulations, and foster innovation within the small business sector.One of the key components of the Small Business Support Act is the establishment of a fund to provide grants and low-interest loans to small businesses struggling to recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund will be administered by the Delaware Economic Development Office and is expected to provide much-needed relief to small businesses facing financial hardships.In addition to financial assistance, the Small Business Support Act also includes provisions to streamline regulatory processes for small businesses. This includes the introduction of a small business ombudsman within the Department of Small Business and the creation of a task force to review and eliminate unnecessary regulations that may be hindering small business growth.Governor Smith emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses as the backbone of Delaware's economy. He stated, "Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and it is crucial that we provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed. The Small Business Support Act represents our commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment in Delaware."The Small Business Support Act has received widespread support from small business owners and industry groups across the state. Mary Johnson, owner of a small retail shop in Wilmington, praised the new legislation, stating, "This is exactly the help we've been waiting for. The grants and loans will make a huge difference for businesses like mine that have been struggling to stay afloat. I'm grateful to Governor Smith and the state legislators for recognizing the importance of supporting small businesses."Overall, the implementation of the Small Business Support Act marks a significant step forward in Delaware's efforts to bolster its small business community and promote economic growth. The state government will continue to monitor the impact of the new legislation and make adjustments as needed to ensure its success in supporting small businesses across the state.