9/2/2025 | DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Celebrating OUR 2025 RISING LEADER: ApRYL KING
America's SBDC Recognizing Leaders at SBDCs Across the Nation
Every year, America’s SBDC recognises individuals who are growing their impact, improving SBDC programming, and contributing to the success of clients as Rising Leaders. This year, we are proud to celebrate Apryl King for her exceptional leadership and passionate work ethic!
The Delaware SBDC is excited to highlight Apryl for making a lasting impact within the Delaware community and for being presented as a strong candidate across a national network of leaders. The Rising Leadership Certification presented through America’s SBDC is a chance for selected participants to deepen their leadership presence, strengthen connections within their network, and approach new opportunities with intention. This invitation-only program allows leaders to engage in a full day of interactive sessions designed to spark connection and support the development of strategic leadership.
About Apryl King
As a dedicated, problem-solving, and adaptable professional, Apryl is always helping entrepreneurs shape their business plan or explore international trade opportunities as a Business Advisor through the Delaware SBDC. Since 2017, Apryl has dedicated her career to facilitating international business growth, with a particular focus on the food, beverage, and agricultural sectors. Apryl’s expertise makes her an ideal advisor for businesses looking to expand their horizons globally – she provides comprehensive support, guiding companies through market research, preparing for export marketing grant funding, facilitating trade show participation, and fostering crucial business connections through strategic matchmaking. Recently, Apryl has worked to coordinate or support events like the Global Business Summit, our “Successful Exporter” conference, and the Small Business Grants and Loans Fair, a high-impact event hosted biannually by Delaware SBDC and Delaware Business Times.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Business Administration from the University of Southern Maine and a Master’s of Science in International Business from the University of Delaware, Apryl possesses a wealth of knowledge within the political and business landscapes. Apryl also serves as an adjunct professor for upper-level business management. Her proactive approach as a Business Advisor has earned her Maine’s International Trade Center, Future Global Leader award in 2019, and recognition as NASBITES’s Certified Global Business Professional.
Rising to the Occasion
Sarah Mailloux, Former Associate State Director of the Delaware SBDC, reflected on Apryl’s performance since stepping into her role as a Business Advisor, stating:
“Apryl’s leadership in multiple key initiatives over the past year made her an obvious choice for the Rising Leadership recognition. This award is given to one individual at each of the 63 SBDCs across the country and is meant for high-potential individuals to enhance their leadership skills through a year-long cohort and development program.
Apryl worked with two international business research interns this year, spearheading a new way to work with UD students. She also led our Grants & Loans Fair programming and taught our Small Business Management course which integrated SBDC clients into projects with UD students. Apryl juggled these tasks, along with her advising, and we are so grateful for her efforts!”
On her nomination for the Rising Leader award, Apryl shared:
“As a Business Advisor, seeing entrepreneurs reach breakthrough moments is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Each client is building something with purpose, and supporting their journey is a privilege. Being nominated for America’s SBDC Rising Leadership Certification is an honor, and I look forward to growing alongside this exceptional group and bringing even greater value to our clients and communities.”
We are incredibly excited to see how Apryl will continue to leverage her enhanced leadership skills and passionate approach to contribute to future successes. Her achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished through dedication and a genuine desire to excel. Congratulations Apryl!
