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.
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.
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.”
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.
Five values guide everything
Belonging
Everyone deserves a place where they feel they belong.
Cultural Identity
Culture is a source of strength, pride, and connection.
Economic Justice
Opportunity should be equitable and within reach.
Community Trust
We build relationships rooted in honesty and care.
Equity Through Action
We turn values into tangible, lasting change.
Rooted in Portland, reaching every corner of Maine.
"Statewide" isn't just a word in our mission, it's where our entrepreneurs actually are.
61.1%
Cumberland County
17.6%
Androscoggin County
14.1%
Kennebec, Lincoln, Hancock, Penobscot & more
Community voices, not just our own.
Without BOM's support it would have been impossible to secure a $10,000 CDBG. I am so grateful.
Sasha Lamour · I Get Active, LLC
Keep going. It'll continue to grow as we spread the word.
Dimitri King · Community Member