b'OPPORTUNITY LIVES HEREIndustry-University-Student PartnershipsRecommendation 4.2: Expand or Enhance Workforce and Entrepreneurship Options through Delaware Technical Community College and Delaware State University Campuses in the DistrictAction: Expand the workforce development credentialing options at Delaware Technical Community College (Del Tech) and Delaware State University to support growing tech sectors and expand entrepreneurial space.Rationale: Known for its strong legal and financial sectors, the Wilmington area is home to a wide variety of industries, including a growing tech sector. HighSpeedInternet.com ranked Delaware as the #1 state in terms of internet speeds in 2022. Delaware is therefore able to support businesses with strong internet connectivity needs. Del Techs Wilmington campus and Delaware State are located a short walk from one another, creating a natural ecosystem to enhance workforce and entrepreneurial support.Del Techs workforce development programs have a strong presence in the area. Its continuing education programs can facilitate career changes, including higher paying jobs in the tech sector. Delaware States riverfront location will be an incubation hub for minority- and women-owned small businesses, promoting workforce development and a clear path to success for its students. Its location on the riverfront can support further development on the riverfront and provide a central location to house incubator space.Impact: Additional credential programs will help current residents find new careers including in the tech sector and can help recruit related companies to locate or expand in the area.Components Timeline1.Regularly bring together higher education institutions, large employers, and industry leaders to discuss labor needs and credentialing channels. 2.Work with university partners to develop certificates that support fintech and geospatial technology-related jobs. 3.Create incubator space to support entrepreneurial activity.Local ExampleDelaware State University RiverfrontWilmington, DelawareDelaware State University Riverfront is a $4.7M facility donated by Capital One to the University in 2021. The site will headquarter the Universitys School of Graduate, Adult, and Extended Studies, a new partnership with the Teen Warehouse for its workforce development center, and an incubation hub for micro and small businesses with a particular focus on minority- and women-owned companies. Delaware Three Rivers Area Economic Development Master Plan 145'