There has been a slew of recent local business closures from restaurants to retail. To help more of our favorite businesses make it to 2026, let’s commit to shift more of our spending locally in 2025. Especially RIGHT NOW. 

Winter in Maine is tough for locally owned, independent businesses. Sales are down, and costs are up. Even with busy summers and holiday sales, some don’t make it through to the next busy season. Yes, buying from large online retailers is easy, especially when it’s cold and dark outside. But understand, when you buy from national chains and franchises, little to none of your money stays in the community.

While it’s tempting to order everything from your couch, it guts the local economy and harms our community. Also admit it, it’s boring. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy all the local restaurants without the crowds, snuggle up at your local coffee shop, visit that cute shop you follow on Instagram, or connect with friends at local events. When you choose local, you keep local businesses in business.

So, Maine up, pull on your LL Bean boots and make 2025 the year you shift more of your spending locally.Need some help? We got you. 

Here’s your guide to prioritizing local over large corporations. And remember, your local businesses need your support all year round, especially this winter. 

1. Find Local Businesses

• Use community directories (like ours!) from buy local coalitions, neighborhood groups, arts organizations, tourism boards, and business associations. In addition to ours, we’ve linked many local Southern Maine resources below. 
• Visit local farmer’s markets, craft fairs, and art shows. 
• Ask for recommendations from friends and family.
• When you find a local business you love, ask them for their favorites too.

2. Assess Your Needs

• List products or services you use often, like groceries, dining, gifts, or home repairs.
• Match needs to local providers: farms and food coops, independent restaurants, small boutiques, local makers, a locally owned hardware store, etc.
• Keep a list of local businesses you like on your phone for future reference. 

3. Plan Your Purchases

• Budget for local spending. Yes, prices may be slightly higher, but it’s worth it.
• Make a list of local options versus chains, franchises, and national corporations for products and services you purchase often. 
• Buy seasonal items to save money and support sustainability.
  

4. Choose Local First

• Shop in-person or order online from local stores.
• Use independent service providers for home or personal needs.
• Join loyalty programs for discounts and local updates. 

5. Support and Advocate

• Leave reviews and share local businesses on social media.
• Recommend favorites to friends and family.
• Attend community events and donate to buy local campaigns.

6. Stay Committed

• Make local shopping a habit.
• Stay informed about small business challenges.
• Encourage others to buy local.

By following these steps, you’ll help build a vibrant local economy where everyone can choose local first. 

Buy Local Resources

Here are some websites that can help you find local businesses, events, restaurants, and activities in Greater Portland, Maine. Have some suggestions, send to info@portlandbuylocal.org. 

Note: these sites may include some listings for businesses and events that are not locally owned and independent.

Portland Buy Local Business Directory – Locally owned, independent businesses serving Greater Portland. Add yours right now for free!

Black Owned Maine – A directory of black owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Includes technical assistance and consulting services as well. 

Creative Portland – A free app to help you explore Portland area galleries, museums, performing arts, and other arts related places and experiences.

Portland Downtown - Includes a guidebook of downtown Portland businesses, walking tours, events, and parking locations. 

Portland Farmer’s Market – A large, year-round market for local produce, goods, and so much more. 

Portland Food Map – The definitive guide to Portland’s food scene including a list of current restaurants, breaking news, new openings, closures, and more.

Portland Old Port – A great place to find out local events, shops, restaurants and more. Don’t miss their Weekend Guide!

Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce – Business listings including many local businesses and events in the Portland region. 

Visit Portland – A resource for planning a trip or event in Portland, Maine. Includes event venues, tourist activities, hospitality and more. 

Outside Portland

Keep it Local Maine – Offers a print publication, social media, and podcast that features local businesses in the Greater Portland region. 

Scarborough Buy Local – A listing of local businesses in the town of Scarborough. 

Downtown Westbrook – A Main Street organization with a listing of events, a business directory, community calendar and more.