In a state facing an aging population and persistent workforce shortages, immigrants are playing an increasingly important role in Maine’s economic growth. Through entrepreneurship, innovation, commerce, and services, they contribute not only to their own integration but also to the prosperity of the state as a whole.
According to Jean Rutonesha, CEO of Standard Care LLC, a Maine-based healthcare company, immigrants make up only about 4% of Maine’s population but contribute more than $1.5 billion to the state’s gross domestic product each year.
That contribution was at the heart of an entrepreneurial event held May 30, 2026, at the DoubleTree Hotel in South Portland under the theme, “From Idea to Income: Build, Fund, and Grow Your Business.” The gathering brought together entrepreneurs, financial experts, economic development professionals, and community members eager to learn about the resources available to start and grow businesses in the United States.
Beyond discussions about financing and business growth, speakers highlighted the critical role entrepreneurship plays in immigrant integration and community development.
For many newcomers, settling in the United States comes with significant challenges, including understanding the economic system, accessing resources, building professional networks, and finding financing opportunities. Yet many arrive with valuable skills, innovative ideas, and a strong determination to succeed.
According to organizers, the event was designed to help participants better understand the American business environment while connecting them with professionals and entrepreneurs who have already navigated the path to business ownership.
The event was organized by Eddy Tumba, a Congolese entrepreneur and founder of COBEX (Congo Business Exchange).
“We need more sponsors to continue organizing events like this because they require significant resources,” Tumba said. “With greater financial support, we could create even larger and more impactful events.”
Despite financial and logistical challenges, Tumba remains optimistic about the growing entrepreneurial spirit within immigrant communities. “Some people are already showing real interest in entrepreneurship,” he said. “We are only at the beginning, but we encourage everyone to come, listen, learn, and get involved. We believe that in the future more people will participate, and the impact will be even greater.”
Among the speakers was Christina Ramsdell Albee, owner of Maine Street Business Consulting LLC, who shared insights from more than 15 years of experience in banking and entrepreneurship.
According to Albee, many aspiring entrepreneurs have talent and motivation but need information about the steps to turn their ideas into successful businesses. “Many people want to start a business but don’t know where to begin, how to identify their customers, or how to access the resources they need,” she said. “No one should try to build a business alone.”
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She emphasized the importance of seeking guidance from business advisors and taking advantage of the many resources available throughout Maine. “Having the right support helps entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes, save time, and make better decisions,” Albee said.
Her message resonated particularly with immigrant participants, many of whom must navigate a business environment that differs greatly from that of their countries of origin.
One of the most compelling stories shared during the event came from Danny Mulenda, a technology entrepreneur originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
After studying computer science and gaining experience in technology and data analytics, Mulenda worked for major American companies, including Centene, CHS, AT&T, and Microsoft. Today, he leads several entrepreneurial ventures, including RIBRID, a company whose name stands for “Redefining Ideas by Building Real Innovation and Development.” The company focuses on transforming ideas into practical solutions. He also leads Congo Tech Connect, an initiative that seeks to build bridges between African communities, the diaspora, and the technology sector. The organization develops educational programs, conferences, and events focused on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Mulenda spoke about his immigrant journey, including challenges related to language, cultural adaptation, and integrating into a new environment.
During his presentation, he stressed the importance of taking action. “Many people have ideas, but few take action,” Mulenda said. “Everything starts with an idea, but success lies in execution. If you don’t act, someone else will bring your idea to life.”
Mulenda is currently organizing a major technology event scheduled for this summer in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The event will include an innovation competition, with winners receiving an opportunity to travel to Silicon Valley to meet investors and potential partners. According to Mulenda, such initiatives demonstrate that immigrant communities can play a vital role in innovation and economic development.
Another entrepreneur who captured the audience’s attention was Abdurahman Jibril, a Ghanaian-born entrepreneur and founder of Zecado, a company specializing in fragrance creation.
Jibril discussed the challenges he faced while building his business, particularly in developing fragrance formulations. According to Jibril, creating a perfume requires extreme precision because even small variations in ingredients can dramatically alter the final product. He also faced challenges related to manufacturing and packaging.
Despite those obstacles, his passion never faded. “I’ve always had a creative spirit, and I wanted to build something that truly belonged to me,” Jibril said.
He recalled a turning point when he presented his products during a workshop exploring the relationship between fragrances and emotions. After the presentation, several attendees purchased his products.
“That experience gave me confidence in my business,” Jibril said.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, his advice is straightforward. “Invest even a small amount,” Jibril said. “Once you put money into your project, you become much more motivated to keep moving forward.”
Immigrant entrepreneurs bring unique strengths to the business world, according to Jibril.“Many are driven by family and the desire to build a better life,” he said. “They work hard and bring diverse perspectives that enrich the entrepreneurial landscape.”
Jibril believes one of the best ways to support immigrant entrepreneurs is to make them aware of the many resources and opportunities already available.
“I discovered several organizations that support immigrants and entrepreneurs,” he said. “We need more events like this to help both new Mainers and longtime residents.”
Among the participants was Jessica Ndombe Mavungo, owner of JN-Property Management and Ownership. Active in the real estate sector, Mavungo is pursuing studies in finance while preparing to launch a business in the healthcare field. For her, one of the greatest benefits of the event was the opportunity to connect with other professionals.
“I met very interesting people,” Mavungo said. She believes the gathering opened her eyes to new opportunities and helped her establish relationships that could prove valuable in future projects.
Throughout the day, participants emphasized the importance of networking, sharing experiences, and strengthening community connections.
Beyond practical advice on financing and business management, the event reminded many attendees that they are not alone in their entrepreneurial journeys. For immigrants, such gatherings provide access to critical information while also offering role models, confidence-building opportunities, and lasting partnerships.
At a time when many families are seeking greater economic stability, entrepreneurship is increasingly emerging as a pathway to integration, financial independence, and community development. The message from speakers was clear: when immigrants have access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities, they do more than build businesses. They help strengthen Maine’s economy and contribute to the prosperity of the entire state.
Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared in the early July 2026 print edition of Amjambo Africa.
