Newark’s Shop Take 15 shows how business coaching and grant support can help entrepreneurs expand

DOVER, Del. — Applications are now being accepted for the Business on Main Street Accelerator, an eight-week program designed to help Delaware entrepreneurs strengthen their operations, pursue funding and prepare for growth.

The program’s potential impact can be seen in Shop Take 15, a Newark self-care business led by founder and CEO Asia Coleman.

Coleman began working with the Delaware Division of Small Business while Shop Take 15 was primarily an online business. Through the Main Street program, she received help structuring the company, developing marketing ideas and updating its business plan.

The improved plan helped Coleman position the business to pursue funding and qualify for grant support. That grant had a tangible impact: Shop Take 15 grew from a virtual business into one with a physical Newark location.

Coleman also expanded the company’s product offerings and began providing courses. She said the business continues to grow.

Shop Take 15 sells handmade self-care products, including body butters, scrubs, soaps, oils and home fragrances. Its mission encourages people to devote at least 15 minutes each day to their mental and physical well-being.

Coleman’s experience provides a practical example of how technical assistance and access to funding can translate into measurable growth for a small business.

The Business on Main Street Accelerator is a joint initiative of the Delaware Division of Small Business and Launcher. It includes six virtual sessions and two in-person sessions in Dover.

Participants receive assistance with preparing a comprehensive business plan, examining their companies’ financial health, developing compelling pitch decks and using modern marketing strategies. Individualized coaching is also included.

“The feedback that I’ve gotten on the program, which began June 9, 2025, is incredibly positive,” said Anastasia Jackson, coordinator for Delaware on Main Street. “Participants are telling me that the financial reviews and personalized coaching are invaluable to them as business owners.”

The accelerator has graduated 37 small-business owners since it began last year.

Applications for the next class will be accepted through Aug. 31.

To Go Box

• What: Business on Main Street Accelerator
• Program: Eight weeks, including six virtual sessions and two in-person sessions in Dover
• Who: Delaware small-business owners and entrepreneurs seeking assistance with planning, finances, marketing, funding and growth
• Application deadline: Aug. 31, 2026
• Apply: bit.ly/4wY0Hx8
• Shop Take 15: shoptake15.com
• Questions: Contact Anastasia Jackson at [email protected] or Launcher at [email protected].

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