SEPTEMBER 2026 | DELAWARE SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Troy Farmer is Delaware SBDC’s 2026 State Star
Recognizing Commitment and Impact Within The Delaware Small Business Community
Every year, America’s SBDC shines a spotlight on individuals who go above and beyond to help small businesses thrive. We are thrilled to announce Troy Farmer has been awarded as Delaware’s State Star 2026! Her tireless support for Delaware’s small business community makes this recognition truly special.
About Troy Farmer
With 35+ years of expertise in program design, learning and development, entrepreneurship, and organizational coaching, Troy has led multiple initiatives within innovation, artificial intelligence, education, workforce development, and much more. Joining the SBDC team initially during the Community Navigator Pilot Program, Troy most recently served as our Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Program Manager before expanding her counsel as a Delaware SBDC Advisor, dedicating her time to assisting small business entrepreneurs with creating, launching, and facilitating growth across the state.
Troy’s educational background spans both business and human development, holding a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Widener University and a dual Bachelor’s in Business and Marketing from Delaware State University. She is certified through ICF as Master Coach (MCC), Professional Coach (CPC), Laser Coach (CLAC), and Group Coach (CGC). Her impressive track record includes directing Delaware State University’s Entrepreneur and Innovation Maker Space, collaborating with the U.S. Embassy in Uganda on innovation and entrepreneurship programs, and instructing for both NSF I-Corps and Browning the Green Space’s Clean Energy Business Cohort. Troy is also Founder and CEO of ‘Empowerment that Values All’ (EVA Enterprises) LLC.
Having successfully led the DSBDC’s Navigator Program for two and a half years, Troy’s leadership in several statewide initiatives, including her time as SBDC’s SSBCI Program Manager, has helped to bridge the gap to capital for local businesses. In her current position as a Business Advisor, Troy is expanding her impact to assist businesses directly: increasing performance, leveraging growth, and solving complex problems.
Deeply committed to fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and community, Troy recently joined the SBDC’s iDEa Lab cohort program as a co-facilitator and consistently participates in community-focused volunteer service.
Taking The Lead
Mike Bowman, State Director of the Delaware SBDC, reflected on Troy’s impact on both our small business ecosystem and our SBDC clients, stating:
“We are so glad to have Troy on the SBDC team. Her dedication to small business success across our state is complemented by her sharp strategic mindset and deep, real-world entrepreneurial experience. While Troy has served in many roles across our organization, her collaborative vision and dynamic leadership skills have helped our team to grow, adapt, and ensure impact – no matter the program.”
Additionally, Ariel Gruswitz, Associate State Director of the Delaware SBDC, calls attention to her champion work ethic:
“Beyond her eye for strategic growth and development, Troy is a champion for any small business that comes in ready to reach for the stars. As a partner, cheerleader, and mentor, she is always there to help our SBDC clients to grow and succeed. We’re thankful for Troy’s hard work and dedication to both small businesses and our team here at the SBDC, and as such, are celebrating her with the prestigious State Star 2026 Award through America’s Small Business Development Centers!”
Troy conveys deep gratitude for the opportunity to support local entrepreneurs across Delaware and that receiving the 2025 ASBDC Delaware State Star recognition is “deeply meaningful.”
Compassion In Action
“Every day, I have the privilege of partnering with Delaware businesses as they navigate challenges, pursue opportunities, and build businesses that create lasting community impact. I am equally grateful to work alongside the dedicated Delaware SBDC team, whose collective expertise, collaboration, and commitment strengthen our ability to serve entrepreneurs throughout the state.”
– Troy Farmer
Highlighting the passion behind her work, Troy expresses:
“This recognition reflects the trust shared among our clients, colleagues, and community partners. I look forward to continuing this work with compassion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to helping small businesses thrive.”
We are thrilled to recognize Troy for her tireless efforts in championing Delaware’s small businesses through strategic growth and for creating valuable partnerships. The DSBDC team is excited to see her continue to lead, innovate, and transform businesses across our state.
Congratulations, Troy, on this incredible achievement!
