Guide · Maine
Black-Owned Businesses in Maine: A 2026 Guide & Directory
Maine's Black community — rooted in long-standing African American families and a fast-growing African diaspora — is building some of the state's most exciting restaurants, brands, and professional firms. This guide is a starting point for residents and visitors who want to discover, support, and partner with them.
Why support Black-owned businesses in Maine
Maine is one of the whitest states in the U.S., yet it's also home to one of the fastest-growing African diaspora populations in New England — anchored by communities in Portland, Lewiston, South Portland, and Auburn. Supporting Black-owned businesses here strengthens local economies, broadens cultural offerings, and helps newer entrepreneurs build lasting roots.
Categories at a glance
Restaurants & Food
From West African jollof to Caribbean comfort food, Maine's Black-owned kitchens are reshaping the state's dining scene.
- Portland: African and Afro-Caribbean dining, food trucks, and bakeries.
- Lewiston: Home to a thriving Somali and East African food community.
- South Portland: Specialty grocers and halal markets serving the diaspora.
Retail & Fashion
Designers, boutiques, and beauty brands rooted in African heritage and made for the diaspora.
- Portland: Independent fashion houses and natural hair-care studios.
- Auburn: African textile importers and tailoring.
Professional Services
Black-owned firms in law, accounting, real estate, marketing, and consulting serving Maine clients statewide.
- Portland: Consulting, legal, and financial-services practices.
- Bangor: Healthcare, translation, and community advocacy services.
Arts, Media & Creatives
Photographers, musicians, filmmakers, and event producers documenting and celebrating the diaspora.
- Portland: Studios, galleries, and event-production companies.
- Statewide: Touring artists, DJs, and cultural educators.
Where to find them
Anda Konnect maintains a free, community-driven directory of diaspora-owned businesses across Maine and beyond. Browse by category, city, or specialty, and reach out to owners directly.
How to support beyond a single purchase
- Leave a thoughtful review on Google, Yelp, or social.
- Refer a friend, colleague, or family member.
- Hire them for corporate catering, events, or services.
- Attend Anda Konnect cultural events to meet owners in person.
- Follow and share their work on Instagram and TikTok.
Are we missing a business?
This guide grows with the community. If you own — or love — a Black-owned business in Maine that should be featured, let us know and we'll add it to the directory.