Colleen C. Davis
State Treasurer

A$PIRE529

Delaware Aspire529 is a pilot program for youth experiencing or aging out of the foster care system to help them pay for expenses related to college or vocational training. The annual awards of $529 are available to 20 qualified applicants on a first-come, first-served basis.

Aspire529 was created by the Office of State Treasurer Colleen Davis and approved by the Delaware Plans Management Board. Aspire529 aims to help foster youth overcome financial barriers that may prevent them from seeking higher education. An award may be used towards accompanying costs associated with obtaining a degree such as books and school supplies, materials required for skills training, transportation costs, and childcare.

Youth who meet the eligibility requirements may submit one application per academic year.

The application period for Aspire529 closed July 8, 2024.

Questions? Send email to Treasury_Aspire529@delaware.gov

Eligibility Requirements for ASPIRE529

Program Limits for ASPIRE529

Award Conditions for ASPIRE529

Learn more about ASPIRE529 on this episode of “CASA Delaware Live!” with Deputy Treasurer Jordan Seemans

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Financial Literacy Education

Recipients will acquire the knowledge and skills to build responsible financial behavior by learn basic savings and budgeting skills. The Office of the State Treasurer partnered with $tand By Me, a state-funded partnership between Delaware Health and Social Services and United Way, to provide a practical financial literacy course to complement the award. Each recipient will participate in two free, one-on-one financial coaching sessions from trained, skilled professionals. Additionally, recipients will learn how to open a bank account if they do not already have one and learn the necessary skills to manage their personal finances.