As Delaware transitions into a new phase of leadership, the Governor Meyer Administration has laid out their comprehensive transition plan to ensure an effective and strategic approach to governance. Many of the Administration’s priorities align closely with the public policy priorities set forth by DANA, The Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement, reinforcing the essential role of nonprofits in shaping the state’s economic and social landscape. 

Strengthening Government-Nonprofit Collaboration 

One of DANA’s primary policy goals is the establishment of a Nonprofit Ombudsperson within the Governor’s Office to serve as a centralized liaison between the nonprofit sector and the state. The Meyer administration’s focus on improving public-private partnerships and streamlining government processes aligns directly with this need. A dedicated point of contact in the administration would not only enhance efficiency but also improve accountability in addressing nonprofit concerns. 

Modernizing State Contracts for Nonprofits 

DANA has long advocated Statewide Contract Process Reform, aiming to standardize contract negotiations, indirect cost rates, and payment processes to reduce bureaucratic barriers. Governor Meyer’s transition plan emphasizes government modernization and operational efficiency, which could provide the momentum needed to advance these reforms. 

Key overlaps include: 

• Standardizing indirect cost rates to align with federal standards 

• Implementing electronic contract execution and streamlined reporting. 

• Ensuring timely payment schedules with penalties for delays 

Additionally, DANA’s push for contract reform—which includes making state payments to contracted service providers more transparent—can be bolstered by the administration’s commitment to financial accountability and budgetary transparency. 

By pushing for these reforms, both DANA and the Meyer Administration can create a more efficient, transparent, and supportive environment for nonprofit service providers. 

Investing in the Nonprofit Workforce 

DANA’s advocacy for equitable investment in the nonprofit workforce is another area where the Governor’s transition plan aligns with nonprofit sector needs. The plan highlights the importance of workforce development, and DANA’s policy priorities seek to ensure that nonprofit employees have equal access to resources such as: 

• Access to state-negotiated health care rates 

• A permanent state investment in the DANA Nonprofit Accelerator Program to scale small but critical nonprofits. 

• Collaborations to expand early childhood programs, benefiting both nonprofit employees and the communities they serve. 

By recognizing nonprofits as an integral part of the state’s economic and employment framework, the Meyer Administration can further support policies that enable these organizations to thrive. 

Increasing Nonprofit Representation in Decision-Making 

A crucial component of DANA’s public policy agenda is ensuring greater nonprofit representation on state boards and commissions. The transition plan’s emphasis on inclusive governance and stakeholder engagement presents an opportunity to advocate for nonprofit leaders to take on advisory roles in shaping public policy. 

Looking Ahead: A Shared Commitment to Delaware’s Future 

With clear intersections between Governor Meyer’s transition priorities and DANA’s public policy objectives, 2025 presents a pivotal moment for collaboration. By working together, state leaders and the nonprofit sector can drive forward policies that strengthen communities, improve governance, and build a more inclusive and equitable Delaware. 

DANA remains committed to ensuring that nonprofits have a seat at the table and that their invaluable contributions to the state’s economy and social well-being are fully recognized. We look forward to engaging with the new administration to turn these aligned priorities into actionable policies. 

Stay Engaged 

Follow DANA for updates on our advocacy efforts through our newsletter and social media channels, or for additional ways to get involved in shaping Delaware’s nonprofit policy landscape participate in one of our coming events such as Community of Practice for Public Policy or Sub-sector Advocacy Events.  

Learn more about Governor Meyer Transition Report here.