Delaware Governor Jack Markell has announced the launch of the Delaware Blockchain Initiative – a suite of programs that aims to encourage expanded use and development of distributed ledger and smart contract technologies by Delaware-incorporated businesses.

Governor Markell said that Delaware has for long been the “jurisdiction of choice” for the most innovative companies in the world and with this initiative, the state wants to ensure that this remains the case for the growing blockchain technology sector.

“By creating the opportunity for a broad range of corporations – from Fortune 500 companies to startups – to take advantage of distributed ledger and smart contract applications, we are laying the groundwork for a more modern, secure and transparent business environment for years to come”, he said.

The State of Delaware is working closely with Symbiont, a pioneer in the use of smart contracts on blockchain technology, to develop the technical aspects of the Initiative. 

"It is our mission at Symbiont to work with market-leading institutions and we are delighted to work with The State of Delaware," said Mark Smith, CEO of Symbiont. "Given its leadership position in incorporation services, it's an ideal proving ground for smart contracts."

The legal infrastructure of the initiative is being developed by Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, the leading blockchain technology legal team. The state intends to work closely with its technology and legal ambassadors to ensure smooth implementation of this new suite of programs.

"We are honored to be chosen as Delaware's legal ambassadors to the blockchain industry," said Marco Santori, leader of Pillsbury's Blockchain Technology focus team. "The Delaware Blockchain initiative presents a tremendous opportunity for our attorneys to apply their deep experience in distributed ledgers to do true social and economic good."

Governor Markell will disclose the details of this initiative at the opening keynote presentation at the Consensus 2016 conference to be held next month in New York City.