The Lewiston-based organization provides advocacy and support for Black business owners across the state. Membership is also open to companies and individuals whom Brister refers to as “race-conscious” business leaders.
Joshua Brister, owner of the Lewiston-Auburn Maples women’s semi-professional basketball team, founded the Maine Black Chamber of Commerce in 2023.
The Lewiston-based organization provides advocacy and support for Black business owners across the state. Membership is also open to companies and individuals whom Brister refers to as “race-conscious” business leaders.
“I wanted to create a place where our voices matter,” he says of the group, which has close to 50 members across all 16 Maine counties. Members include MEMIC, the Portland-based workers’ compensation insurer, and companies in several sectors according to Brister, who leads a staff of four.
In 2024, Brister aims to surpass 100 members and host monthly “Bring it to Brunch” events, the first of which took place last September featuring Peter F. Hurst Jr., president and CEO of the Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council.
Similar in format to the Portland Regional Chamber’s “Eggs and Issues” series, Brister’s version will feature speakers and networking with a slightly later start, at around 10 a.m.
“It gives everybody a better chance of attending the event, and most people can use it as a lunch break,” says Brister. With the gatherings, he aims to create a forum where attendees can come together “for a joyful morning of networking.”
The Navy veteran established the Maine Black Chamber of Commerce as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit to allow the group to engage in advocacy and influence policy in the state Legislature and communities statewide.
“We are extremely excited to work with state and local elected officials and other chambers of commerce throughout the state to help shape policy,” he notes.
Another priority this year: “We hope to help our members understand the funding options available to them and help them to sustain their business through an increase in domestic sales.”
