Delaware's chemistry industry has more than a 200-year history and is a vital part of the economy. This cluster employs over 16,000 and represents the leading export category for the state. Businesses involved in chemistry, advanced materials and scientific instrumentation dominate the industry and include such companies as Air Liquide, BASF, DuPont, Fujifilms, GE Energy, Hercules, Honeywell, Invista, Polymer Technologies, Rohm and Haas, and W.L. Gore.

With shared goals and experiences, Delaware's chemistry companies are part of the Chemistry and Advanced Materials Alliance. The Alliance enables companies to share best practices, increase networking opportunities, identify shared resources, lobby with a single voice; and promote new product and business commercialization.

Chemistry companies and related industries enjoy a distinct advantage by doing business in Delaware:

Leveraging the state's small size to expedite strategic decision-making and capitalize on opportunities with accessibility of government officials

Availability of a skilled labor pool with strong work ethic (entry level to Ph.D.)

Resources available that know the business of chemistry

World-class academic institutions with programs to support the industry

#1 in industry research and development
(2007 State New Economy Index)

Proximity to customers and raw materials

Access to interstate highways, rail, airports and deepwater ports

The business of chemistry is a well-established and vibrant industry in Delaware, a state that provides a cohesive touchstone for businesses to assess and capitalize on opportunities. More broadly, the cluster also embraces raw material suppliers, support service providers, educational, research and trade organizations, and business services.

Businesses looking to build or extend their presence in this dynamic market will find that Delaware offers a first-rate business climate in which to thrive.