Georgetown, DE – David Root is retiring after being responsible for the operations of the southern Delaware office of the SBDC since 2017. He has been with the SBDC for 6 years and has strong experience and knowledge in economic development, especially throughout Kent and Sussex Counties. David has devoted his time to serving businesses in varied industries such as food and accommodation, health care, professional services, retail, and construction.

Before joining Delaware SBDC, David worked for the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) as the State’s Workforce Development Representative and as Business Development Leader for DEDO in Sussex County. Prior to his State employment, David was Director, Professional Skills and Management Training at Harrisburg Area Community College. He had a similar role at a Fortune 500 company AMP Incorporated (now Tyco Electronics) and owned his own business working as a middleman by repackaging items for retail outlets. Altogether, he has 30+ years of business experience and holds an MSW from Salisbury University and an M.Ed. from Temple University.

During his time at the Delaware SBDC, David has worked with over 300 clients. He has helped 30 businesses start and infused over $10 million in capital formation into the Delaware economy. In his role as Center Director for Southern Delaware, he has built relationships with multiple local chambers and resource partners. David spearheaded multiple agri-business initiatives and was a strong advocate for serving women-owned and Hispanic-owned businesses.

Davids’s clients at Brimming Horn Meadery, recent winners of the SBA’s Rural Business of the Year, noted:

Sarah Mailloux, Associate State Director of the Delaware SBDC notes:

“David has been a wonderful part of the Delaware SBDC team. His attention to building a team culture, passion for his clients and his community, and proactive problem-solving nature have made him a great leader in the state of Delaware. It has been a joy to work alongside him.”

– Sarah Mailloux, Delaware SBDC Associate State Director

Congratulations, David – on an impressive career in economic development and business management. We wish you all the best in your retirement, and we look forward to your continued service as a part-time Advisor!