OCTOBER 2026 | DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Leading with Impact: Lissette Cabrera-Galloza Named 2026 Rising Leader
Shaping the Future of Small Business Support
Recognizing standout SBDC staff across the nation, the ASBDC Rising Leaders program empowers professionals to expand their leadership capacity, build strategic networks, and lead with purpose. Joining the 2026 cohort, Lissette will be recognized for shaping the future of the SBDC network and have a chance to highlight her work supporting small businesses across Delaware. We are thrilled to celebrate Lissette Cabrera-Galloza as Delaware’s Rising Leader!
About Lissette Cabrera-Galloza
Since joining the Delaware SBDC team in 2020, Lissette has become a well-known advocate for local small businesses. Drawing on 15+ years of banking experience as a former WSFS Bank AVP and Branch Manager, she equips entrepreneurs with the strategic financial tools they need. Her strong work ethic and resilience allow her to help clients secure grants and funding with remarkable success.
As a Senior Business Advisor, she is passionate about bridging cultural and linguistic gaps to facilitate meaningful connections and deliver exceptional client service.
Formerly recognised as the 2023 Delaware State Star, Lissette remains a passionate mentor for entrepreneurs looking to build lasting success. Whether guiding a business through a major transition or helping them secure space, Lissette’s approach combines honest advice with deep empathy. Her bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish also enables Lissette to effectively engage with businesses across the state and navigate globalized business environments with ease.
Continuing The Momentum
The Delaware SBDC Leadership Team, Mike Bowman (State Director) and Ariel Gruswitz (Associate State Director) reflect on Lissette’s commitment since stepping into her role as a Senior Business Advisor, stating:
“Lissette’s leadership across multiple Delaware SBDC initiatives makes her the perfect candidate for recognition under the Rising Leader award. Outside of her fantastic advising work, Lissette has contributed to continuous improvement and strategic accomplishment for our team in many ways. Beyond assisting 11 entrepreneurs with starting a business and helping clients secure over $4.5 Million in capital in the last year, she is an active and trusted member of entrepreneurial communities in Sussex County and across the state. Stepping into the role of ‘Senior Business Advisor’ this year, Lissette has worked to develop and improve our internal training and resources for the entire advising staff, helping us to continue the momentum she has set out for our team.”
Turning Goals Into Reality
On her nomination for the Rising Leader cohort, Lissette reflected on her passion for working with Delaware’s entrepreneurs:
“Serving Delaware’s small business community is incredibly rewarding. I have the privilege of working alongside entrepreneurs as they navigate challenges, pursue opportunities, and turn their goals into reality. Receiving the 2026 Rising Leader Award is truly an honor and reinforces my commitment to serving our businesses and communities with purpose.”
– Lissette Cabera-Galloza
We can’t wait to see how Lissette will use these new leadership insights to continue driving success for Delaware small businesses. Her recognition as a Rising Leader is a true testament to her unwavering dedication and genuine heart for helping others thrive.
Congratulations, Lissette!
