BBlack OwnedMaine
About Us

A statewide connector for Maine's entrepreneur ecosystem.

Black Owned Maine (BOM) is a nonprofit based in Portland, Maine, working at the intersection of entrepreneurship, culture, and economic justice.

Our Story

Born from barriers, built for belonging.

Founded in 2020, BOM emerged in response to longstanding barriers facing Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

Since then, the organization has evolved into a statewide connector, storyteller, and ecosystem builder that supports entrepreneurs through advising, storytelling, innovation, and community partnerships.

Today, BOM serves as both a platform and a catalyst — amplifying entrepreneur stories, fostering meaningful connections, and helping shape a more inclusive and resilient economy across Maine.

Our Vision

A Maine where every entrepreneur has equitable access to opportunity, visibility, and support — rooted in belonging, resilience, and cultural pride.

“BOM connects entrepreneurs, communities, stories, and opportunities across Maine.”

Our Evolution

From 2020 to today

2020

Founded

BOM emerged in response to longstanding barriers facing Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

Since

Statewide Connector

The organization evolved into a statewide connector, storyteller, and ecosystem builder.

Today

Platform & Catalyst

BOM amplifies entrepreneur stories, fosters connections, and helps shape a more inclusive, resilient economy.

Our Values

Five values guide everything

01

Belonging

Everyone deserves a place where they feel they belong.

02

Cultural Identity

Culture is a source of strength, pride, and connection.

03

Economic Justice

Opportunity should be equitable and within reach.

04

Community Trust

We build relationships rooted in honesty and care.

05

Equity Through Action

We turn values into tangible, lasting change.

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