Venture Capital Seed Fund Program Management

The State of Delaware Department of State, through the Division of Small Business, is soliciting proposals for the Venture Capital Seed Fund Program Management under the U.S. Treasury State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The program intends to utilize approximately 30 million dollars to build resident venture capital capacity, increase deal flow for targeted state industries, and expand capital access for women, founders of color, and rural-based businesses. The primary performance goal is to achieve at least a 10:1 ratio of private capital leveraged over a 10-year period. Eligible vendors must meet the SEC definition of a venture fund and comply with SSBCI Capital Program Policy Guidelines, including conflict-of-interest standards and Treasury civil rights requirements. Proposals are due by December 2, 2026, and will be evaluated based on team qualifications and experience (40 percent), investment strategy and fund management (30 percent), compliance and reporting capabilities (20 percent), and outreach to SEDI-owned businesses (10 percent). Award decisions are based on the most advantageous proposal rather than the lowest bid. Selected vendors must adhere to strict regulatory requirements, including IRS Publication 1075 for Federal Tax Information (FTI) compliance, non-discrimination laws under Delaware Code, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contract administration includes 30-day payment terms, a requirement for a Supplier ID, and the potential for IRS inspections of facilities with 24-hour notice.