Hawai‘i entrepreneurs looking to scale your business, take note: applications are now open for the Mana Up’s six-month business accelerator program.
Founded by Meli James and Brittany Heyd, Mana Up helps Hawai‘i companies expand within the state and globally through its accelerator and alumni program that offers workshops, mentorship and sales opportunities, resources and more. This will be Mana Up’s 11th cohort.
“Last year we received 200 applications, a record, and interest is already high again this year,” James told Aloha State Daily in an emailed response to questions. “That speaks to the strength and creativity of Hawai‘i’s entrepreneurial community. While demand continues to grow, we’re intentionally selective — we typically accept about 10 companies so we can provide the depth of support that truly helps founders scale.”
Since its inception, Mana Up has worked with more than 100 companies. Its alumni generated more than $105 million in revenue in 2024.
“We’re always looking for founders who are deeply rooted in Hawai‘i — people who understand that building a business here means honoring culture, community and place,” James says. “Strong applicants have a clear product, a compelling story, and the willingness to learn, adapt and scale with intention. We’re especially drawn to founders who are mission-driven and ready to do the hard work required to grow sustainably.”
You can find a list of criteria and more information here.
James says it’s “incredibly meaningful” for the accelerator to reach this point.
“When we started Mana Up, the goal was to create pathways for Hawai‘i-based companies to grow beyond our islands while staying true to who they are,” she says. “Reaching our 11th cohort shows that this model works — and that there’s still so much opportunity ahead for local founders. Reaching our 11th cohort is both humbling and energizing. It’s a reminder of how much talent exists here in Hawai‘i, and why it’s so important to keep building systems that support local entrepreneurs for the long term.”
Apply here by Feb. 6. If you’ve applied before, you can do so again.
A virtual information session also will be held from 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4. Sign up for that here.
(And ICYMI: See why some members of Cohort 10 wanted to participate in the accelerator program here).
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Stephanie Salmons can be reached at stephanie@alohastatedaily.com.
