As the 2025 Reinventing Delaware process continues, anticipation builds for the announcement of this year’s winner, which will take place at a special press event on June 2nd.
In the meantime, we’re excited to spotlight the standout ideas advancing to the final round of competition. This year’s finalists have invested substantial time and effort into refining their concepts, thoroughly researching and analyzing each aspect to develop robust and viable models. Their dedication reflects a deep commitment to crafting innovative solutions that drive economic growth and promote long-term development and sustainability for Delaware. Each finalist is focused on implementing strategies that will leave a lasting impact and help shape a prosperous future for our state.
This week’s featured finalist is Delaware Health Equity Coalition (DHEC) Inc., led by Dr. Cydney Teal. In the following interview, Dr. Teal shares more about her concept:
How would you describe your idea in a 30-second pitch?
DHEC is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing community health education and culturally appropriate healthcare in a way that restores trust, empowers, and engages patients within a psychologically safe environment. At the core of our mission is our medical practice, a patient-centered medical home supported by our four pillars of excellence: community education, healthcare policy and advocacy, clinical research, and workforce development. These pillars guide our work as physicians as we strive to transform the healthcare trajectory of the individuals and communities we serve.
What inspired you to pursue this idea, and how did you come up with it?
As co-founders, we initially united during the COVID pandemic to educate Delaware communities about the importance of vaccination. Through these patient sessions, we recognized the need to bridge the gap between medical providers and patients by creating an environment that fosters trust and allows individuals to feel seen and heard. This sense of trustworthiness has diminished over time in healthcare. By establishing trusted partnerships, particularly in healthcare, we can dismantle barriers to care and ensure that patients genuinely have access to the healthcare they need.
In what ways will your idea benefit Delaware?
The primary focus of DHEC is to establish a comprehensive and cohesive multi-generational healthcare approach. This approach aims to mitigate chronic diseases, enhance overall health outcomes, and ultimately alter the health trajectory of entire communities across Delaware. DHEC plans to forge partnerships with community organizations to identify and eliminate social determinants of health (SDOH) that hinder patients from reaching optimal wellness. Additionally, DHEC will create a platform to train the next generation of healthcare workers effectively.
What difference will your idea make in the community or the world?
As healthcare providers, we serve as both messengers of truth and agents of change, working to alleviate healthcare barriers, mental health challenges, and health-related social needs. Our goal is to enhance the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of the communities we serve. Through our research efforts, we act as subject matter experts, informing policymakers on legislation that impacts our communities and advising public health policymakers.
DHEC is committed to providing a collaborative learning environment that nurtures future physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Additionally, we will partner with other industries to drive economic success within the community.
How are you planning to achieve your idea’s purpose?
Through collaborative funding as a non-profit organization, DHEC aims to develop a self-sufficient revenue stream over the next five years while continuing to expand our practices throughout the state of Delaware. This will be accomplished by engaging insurance payors in alternative payment models where we are compensated for clinical quality outcomes rather than in the traditional fee-for-service model.
Will you or someone other than yourself champion this idea should it continue to move forward, and why? If applicable, who else is on your team?
As CEO of DHEC, I will continue to champion our cause, working along with our co-founders, Dr. Scantlebury, Dr. Coker, and Felicia Stallings.
What advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur?
Do your best to stick with the business plan; do not get distracted by the bright, shiny objects that come your way. And have fun.
Next Steps: Winner Announcement on June 2, 2025
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 and work.
The winner of the 2025 Reinventing Delaware competition will be announced on June 2nd at a special press event at the DuPont Country Club. Secure your tickets today and join us in celebrating this landmark moment.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Sponsorship opportunities are available to support the development of each finalist, as well as the upcoming dinner this November. Stay tuned for the date!
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 making a donation, you can play a crucial role in fostering innovation and driving economic growth in Delaware.
For more details on getting involved with the Reinventing Delaware initiative as a sponsor, contact Lynn Roberts at [email protected]. You can also visit our donation page to support the idea development program. Your contribution helps invest strategic, practical resources to position businesses for success, ultimately creating jobs and improving our community.