The Hidden Workforce

Issue 12.15

April 24, 2026

THIS WEEK IN DOVER

If you operate a business in Delaware, two new bills could directly impact your costs, compliance obligations, and day-to-day operations. House Bill 400 and House Bill 380 stand to affect businesses of all sizes, from startups to large multi-entity organizations.

The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce is actively monitoring both bills. Read more >

EPISODE 31 | A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE

FEATURING MARK HUTTON

Delaware has no shortage of ideas when it comes to strengthening our economy, but turning those ideas into real solutions can be a challenge. At a time when the state stands at a crossroads, the biggest risk isn’t a lack of vision—it’s the status quo. In this episode, Kelly sits down with Mark Hutton, head of Business Banking and Delaware regional president of M&T Bank and a founding trustee of the Delaware State Chamber Foundation. They explore why the Foundation was created, the role it plays as a convener, how it’s working to move from conversation to action, and a bonus chocolate chip cookie tasting!

Listen to the episode on your favorite streaming platform >

Check out past episodes of the Delaware Deep Dive podcast >

LEARN MORE: Please contact Kerri Welcher, Director of the Delaware State Chamber Foundation, at kwelcher@dscc.com to learn more about the Foundation.

ACTIVATING THE HIDDEN WORKFORCE

APRIL IS SECOND CHANCE HIRING MONTH

Delaware has too many open jobs without the workers to fill them. Wilmington has too many residents who are unemployed, under-employed, and seeking stable jobs that pay livable wages. Jac Rivers struggles with that paradox every day as a vice president program officer on JPMorganChase’s Global Philanthropy team. JPMorganChase has made second-chance programs, focused on providing resources and support for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. These programs are sorely needed as one in three Americans has a criminal record. Read more >

SECOND CHANCES, STRONGER TEAMS

When employers talk about workforce challenges, the restaurant and hospitality industry is often at the center of the conversation. As one of Delaware’s largest private-sector employers, restaurants offer accessible entry points to employment, flexible schedules, and opportunities for advancement.

They are also uniquely positioned to lead on second-chance hiring, providing meaningful employment to individuals who may face barriers to reentering the workforce. Read more >

SMART STRATEGIES

Finding reliable, motivated talent in a competitive labor market is not a challenge unique to Delaware employers.

At Goodwill of Delaware & Delaware County, we see that challenge as an opportunity, one met by pairing inclusive hiring with structured support, modern technology, and clear pathways to long-term success.

Through our Work A Day Earn A Pay program... individuals with justice system involvement gain immediate paid work experience while rebuilding confidence, skills, and momentum. Read more >

IDEAS DRIVING IMPACT

NAVIGATING DELAWARE PATHWAYS SUMMIT | APRIL 28

At our Navigating Delaware Pathways summit next week, bold ideas and proven strategies will be showcased in fast-paced lightning round presentations. Leaders from Maryland, New York, Delaware, and nationwide will each have five minutes to share innovative approaches to education and workforce development, highlighting the challenge they addressed, the solution they implemented, and the results achieved. Register >

PHOTOS OF THE WEEK

On Tuesday night, the Delaware Young Professionals Network hosted a "Delaware Decides: Policy That Impacts You" panel and reception at The Biggs Museum with state legislators (left). DSCC's Kelly Basile celebrated her graduation from Leadership Delaware, Inc.'s Alumni Accelerator program (right).

ADVERTISE WITH THE STATE CHAMBER

Promote your events, news & initiatives to Delaware's business community through us! Learn more >

Check out past episodes of the Delaware Deep Dive podcast >

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