Delaware State University proudly inaugurates its latest venture aimed at revitalizing downtown Dover and supporting small businesses with the opening of the Center for Urban Revitalization and Entrepreneurship Building. In collaboration with NeighborGood Partner, an organization dedicated to affordable housing and community development, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on the corner of W. Division and New Streets.
The CURE Building stands as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and existing small business owners, particularly those from minority and underserved backgrounds. Designed as a business incubator, the facility aims to provide essential resources, education, and support systems that contribute to entrepreneurial success. As highlighted during the dedication, the CURE initiative encompasses various factors critical to entrepreneurship, including financial literacy, mental health, social networks, and family structure.
Dr. Michael Casson, dean of DSU‘s College of Business, emphasized the transformative potential of the CURE Building. “The CURE will integrate business incubation, co-working space, and community development into a cohesive support system for entrepreneurs, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures growth and innovation in our community,” Dr. Casson said.
Turning CURE Into Reality
The birth of the CURE Building was rooted in a blight removal effort led by NGP. The initiative sought to eliminate a house linked to criminal activity, alongside a rental property and a neighboring commercial site. While NGP and Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity worked on acquiring these properties, Dr. Casson proposed the idea of establishing a community-based shared workspace for local entrepreneurs.
“This building is a true collaboration and a great holistic approach to community development, providing homes, economic development, and energizing residents,” said Karen Speakman, the executive director of NGP.
The funding for CURE Building was a collective effort between Central Delaware Habitat, the Welfare Foundation, the Delaware State Housing Authority, and numerous banks. U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester also backed up the progress with congressional funding.
The second floor of the CURE Building will be dedicated to DSU’s training programs, focusing on community entrepreneur development. The first floor will serve as the operational hub for NGP’s affordable housing and community development initiatives.
