Growing a Stronger Hawai‘i
Mana Up is an initiative to support Hawai‘i-based product companies with the potential to scale globally. Through our accelerator program, retail channels, and storytelling, we help founders turn their passion into thriving, impactful businesses rooted in culture, community, and place.
105
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 are implementing many new strategies and following up with many connections. As a management team, we are stronger and more professionally bound to think through our business goals and the words we choose to present them.”
New & Notable
From product launches to upcoming events, discover what’s new at Mana Up.
How Pono Potions Leads with Aloha & Authenticity
Celebrating Pride Month with local flavors and community connections.
Mana Up's Newest Milestone: Cohort 10
Introducing the next wave of Hawai‘i entrepreneurs.
Explore the New Duke Kahanamoku Collection
Explore how local makers honored Hawai‘i’s original waterman.
Aloha Market Sets New Records in Tokyo
Hawai‘i brands shine with Mana Up's return to Japan.
Mana Up helps Hawai‘i-based founders grow through a 6-month accelerator program focused on leadership development, scaling operations, and increasing revenue.
Each cohort joins a vibrant, collaborative network of fellow founders, alumni, and partners—fostering connection, collaboration, and shared growth.
From creative artists to the producers of locally harvested honey and ocean-friendly fashion, the Mana Up ‘ohana is filled with innovators who honor their culture, community, and the ‘āina.
Founders are paired with experts across finance, human resources, CPG, retail and tech, receiving hands-on guidance tailored to their stage of growth and business goals.
Entrepreneurs are featured in high-profile events like the annual Mana Up Showcase Broadcast and in-person Marketplace, offering media exposure and direct-to-consumer sales opportunities.
Graduating companies gain exposure through House of Mana Up stores, e-commerce, and global sales opportunities—including events like Aloha Market in Tokyo and Los Angeles.
Mana Up helps Hawai‘i-based founders grow through a 6-month accelerator program focused on leadership development, scaling operations, and increasing revenue.
Each cohort joins a vibrant, collaborative network of fellow founders, alumni, and partners—fostering connection, collaboration, and shared growth.
From creative artists to the producers of locally harvested honey and ocean-friendly fashion, the Mana Up ‘ohana is filled with innovators who honor their culture, community, and the ‘āina.
Founders are paired with experts across finance, human resources, CPG, retail and tech, receiving hands-on guidance tailored to their stage of growth and business goals.
Entrepreneurs are featured in high-profile events like the annual Mana Up Showcase Broadcast and in-person Marketplace, offering media exposure and direct-to-consumer sales opportunities.
Graduating companies gain exposure through House of Mana Up stores, e-commerce, and global sales opportunities—including events like Aloha Market in Tokyo and Los Angeles.
Mana Up has helped us open new doors with retailers and buyers that we could never get face to face meetings with. They've helped us see there is still huge market potential within Hawai’i through sales channels we never thought our product would be a good fit for. The program has also been a great place to connect and build lasting relationships with like-minded entrepreneurs in Hawai’i."
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
Meet Our Partners
Our partners help make big things happen—together, we’re scaling Hawai‘i’s brands to the world.
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.
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