For over a decade, Reinventing Delaware—a Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation (PDFF) initiative—has been a catalyst for innovation, turning bold ideas into transformative ventures. Through a structured entrepreneurial incubator process, the program empowers innovators to develop solutions that drive economic growth and strengthen Delaware’s future. Last November, PDFF gathered some of the state’s brightest minds for the 10th Anniversary Reinventing Delaware Dinner, which celebrated ten years of forward-thinking initiatives.
From more than 100 submissions, five semi-finalists were selected to advance to the next round, and after months of refining their concepts, two finalists have emerged. Their dedication goes beyond economic growth, focusing on long-term development and sustainability for Delaware. Now, as they prepare to bring their ideas to life, these innovators are poised to make a lasting impact on the state’s future.
Meet the 2025 Finalists
Wilminvest – Community Development Corporation, Championed by Joel Amin and Bryce Fender
Joel Amin and Bryce Fender, co-founders of Wilminvest and two-time semi-finalists of the PDFF Reinventing Delaware Process, bring a unique blend of expertise to tackling Delaware’s jobs, blight, and housing crises. Joel’s experience in entrepreneurship, technology innovation, real estate financing, and construction project management allows Wilminvest to renovate homes at a fraction of the market price. Bryce, a social entrepreneur, uses his leadership, design thinking, and local market knowledge to expand Wilminvest’s housing portfolio and develop innovative housing models. He also leads logistics and operations, driving the company’s success in securing a major Amazon employment contract.
Wilminvest is a social enterprise focused on transforming vacant properties into affordable housing for those in need. By partnering with investors, housing agencies, and community organizations, Wilminvest creates sustainable, impactful solutions, integrating wraparound services to ensure long-term stability for tenants. Through their work, Bryce and Joel have developed a community development strategy that addresses both housing and employment insecurity, helping low-income Delawareans thrive.
Delaware Health Equity Coalition Inc, Championed by Dr. Cydney Teal
The Delaware Health Equity Coalition Inc. (DHEC) is a non-profit healthcare organization founded by three physicians with over 80 years of combined experience. Created to address healthcare access and equity in underserved communities, DHEC provides high-quality, culturally sensitive care. Their integrated approach combines medical, behavioral, and social care to ensure patients receive comprehensive, patient-centered support. Through health screenings, vaccinations, and educational programs, DHEC works to improve immediate health needs while promoting long-term wellness for individuals and families.
Next Steps: Finalist Announcement
After collaborating with our Idea Development team at Social Contract, our review committee—including PDFF staff, board members Thère du Pont and Jacqueline Flowers, Helena Rodriguez from the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, and Scott Malfitano from the Delaware Workforce Development Board—will select an award recipient. This recipient will receive a $15,000 grant to implement their idea, driving economic growth, creating jobs, and making Delaware an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.
Join Our Mission in 2025
We are currently seeking additional supporters and sponsors for the next phase of the program. By underwriting development services or donating, you can help foster innovation and drive economic growth in Delaware. Check out the opportunities using this link.
For more details on getting involved with Reinventing Delaware, contact Lynn Roberts at [email protected]. You can also visit our donation page to support the idea development process. Your tax-deductible contribution helps invest strategic, practical resources to position these ideas for success, ultimately creating jobs and improving our community.