Reinventing Delaware, a Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation initiative, has announced four finalists for its 2026 program, recognizing projects aimed at strengthening the state’s workforce, education systems, and technology sector.
Now in its 11th year, the program has become a catalyst for innovation—helping early-stage ideas evolve into scalable ventures through a structured entrepreneurial incubator.
Meet the 2026 finalists
Apprenticeship Degree, championed by Paul Herdman and Luke Rhine
The Apprenticeship Degree combines paid on-the-job training with college coursework, allowing students to earn a salary while completing both an apprenticeship and a bachelor’s degree. While the model is well established in the United Kingdom, it remains relatively new in the United States.
Delaware Sensory Museum, championed by India Williams
The Delaware Sensory Museum proposes an inclusive learning space for children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing differences, featuring calming environments and interactive exhibits designed to support sensory regulation and hands-on learning.
Beyond the physical space, the project seeks to address workforce gaps by helping train paraprofessionals and behavior-support staff in schools and therapeutic settings. The initiative also connects caregivers to coaching, community and resources, with a long-term goal of positioning Delaware as a leader in sensory-friendly spaces and neurodiversity-informed design.
TriState 3D ScanUp, championed by Keith Roper
TriState 3D ScanUp prepares workers for high-tech careers using drones, LiDAR scanners and 3D modeling tools. These reality-capture technologies help banks, insurers, developers and municipalities create accurate digital replicas of buildings and infrastructure to inform planning and investment decisions, while preparing workers for in-demand careers
Sindri Materials Advanced Manufacturing Hub, championed by Dr. Christopher DiMarco and Brian Checchio
Sindri Materials is focused on addressing one of the key challenges in advanced technology: producing next-generation materials with purity and consistency required for commercial use. The team has developed a process capable of manufacturing 100% pure graphene, a breakthrough with potential applications in electronics, sensors, batteries and other emerging technologies.
The long-term vision includes establishing an Advanced Materials Innovation Lab in Delaware to provide shared infrastructure for scientists and startups. The hub would support research, commercialization and collaboration while anchoring a high-wage innovation ecosystem in the state.
What’s Next?
Over the next five months, the finalists will receive in-kind capacity building support through a robust process designed to refine and scale their concepts. PDFF has partnered with Social Contract and North Star Strategies to support this next phase.
A dedicated review committee composed of PDFF staff, board members, and key stakeholders, including Ted Lauzen, Partner at Grey Fox Wealth and Yvonne Deadwyler, Title of New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, will determine the standout idea of 2026, which will be announced this June.
For more information about Reinventing Delaware and how to get involved, contact Lynn Roberts at [email protected]. Sponsorship opportunities are available and help underwrite the services outlined above, while also providing meaningful visibility and opportunities to engage with a statewide network of business and civic leaders.