MANA UP SHOWCASE 2026
Meet & Celebrate Hawai'i's Rising Entrepreneurs
Get to know the people and stories behind your next local favorites. Explore exclusive products, shop limited-time offers and enter to win unforgettable getaways and gifts from across Hawaiʻi.
Growing a Stronger Hawai‘i
Mana Up helps Hawai‘i-based product companies grow and scale globally. Through our business accelerator, retail platforms like House of Mana Up, and powerful storytelling, we support local founders in building impactful businesses rooted in culture, community, and place.
116
Companies Supported by Mana Up Since 2018
100%
Headquartered in Hawai'i
$105M
Revenue Generated by Mana Up Alumni in 2024
As a result of Mana Up, we implemented new strategies and made many connections. As a management team, we're stronger and more professionally bound to think through our business goals and the words we choose to present.”
Our Journey
Championing Local Brands Since 2018
Explore the milestones that have shaped Mana Up and helped over 100 local companies grow.
Mana Up Launches
Founded in 2018 by Meli James and Brittany Heyd, Mana Up was created to support Hawai‘i-based entrepreneurs and grow local businesses globally. That same year, the first accelerator cohort launched—marking the beginning of a movement to elevate island-grown products to the world stage.
House of Mana Up Opens
In November 2019, Mana Up opened its first retail experience at Royal Hawaiian Center—creating a vibrant platform for local products to connect with both residents and visitors.
Global Reach Begins
In 2020, Mana Up pivoted digitally during the pandemic, launching its first Showcase Broadcast. The livestreamed event reached a global audience, spotlighting Hawai‘i-based brands on an international stage.
Sharing Aloha with Japan
In 2023, Mana Up launched its first Aloha Market in Japan—deepening Hawai‘i’s connection to one of its most important international markets. The initiative expands opportunities for local businesses while supporting year-round growth in retail, e-commerce, and media.
Taking Aloha Market on the Road
After a successful launch in Tokyo, Mana Up takes Hawai‘i on the road with Aloha Market pop-ups in major cities like New York City and Los Angeles—bringing the spirit of aloha to new audiences. These immersive events showcase Hawai‘i-based brands through shopping, food, and cultural experiences, drawing record crowds and introducing thousands to the creativity and innovation behind island-inspired products.
New Milestone Reached
Welcome Cohort 10
Mana Up reaches a major milestone in 2025 with its 10th cohort — growing its portfolio of local brands it has supported in Hawai‘i to 105 companies — and prepares for its biggest Showcase yet, highlighting a growing legacy of Hawai‘i-based entrepreneurship and innovation.
1,035
Number of Jobs Created by Mana Up Alumni
47%
Native-Hawaiian Owned businesses
201
Applicants for Cohort 10
75%
Manufacture products in Hawai’i
72%
Female founded & led businesses
65%
AAPI-owned businesses
CORPORATE & CLIENT GIFTING MADE EASY
Elevate Your Corporate Events With Meaningful Gifts from Hawai‘i
Learn MoreMeet Our Partners
Our partners help make big things happen—together, we’re scaling Hawai‘i’s brands to the world.
