Executive Order 21, signed by Governor Matt Meyer, continues to cut red tape for small business owners. Under Executive 5 of the order, the state launched the Small Business Joint Inspection Pilot, a single, coordinated pathway for new businesses to complete the applications and pre-opening inspections required to open their doors.
“Opening a small business takes courage and hard work,” Meyer said. “Navigating state government should not add to the challenge. This pilot means fewer websites, fewer delays and one clear path from an idea to an ‘open for business’ sign.”
The Office of Small Business Access (OSBA), which was also established by the order, led by Director Anastasia Jackson, is leading the pilot in partnership with participating agencies. Section 5 directs the agencies to publish a standard list of the most common new small-footprint businesses, a plain-English checklist of state requirements for each business type.
When a new business registers through Delaware One Stop, they are introduced to OSBA’s coordination services. At that time, they can choose whether or not to participate. Those who opt in register through ServiceNow, which tells them exactly what permits, licenses and applications their business needs and links them directly to each one. Behind the scenes, ServiceNow alerts the liaison at each participating agency the moment a new business enters the pipeline, so agencies can plan ahead and coordinate their reviews. OSBA works with those liaisons to identify requirements and speed up approvals.
In addition to the services offered by OSBA, new business owners are able to book meetings with agency liaisons and connect with local government officials to get questions answered or resolve permitting issues. When it is time for inspections, OSBA works with agencies and owners to line up visits, cutting scheduling conflicts and unnecessary delays. Applicants may also receive local planning, zoning and business licensing contacts based on their business address.
Agencies participating in the pilot program include Delaware Department of Transportation; Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control; Delaware State Fire Marshal; Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health; and the Office of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner.
Only new business owners who have not yet opened and need to complete applications with participating state agencies are eligible. Participants must create an account, and not all businesses require every application. Applications must be submitted by an authorized individual and are subject to agency review before inspections are scheduled.
For more information, email OSBA.
