About this programme
Mana Up is a 6-month accelerator for Hawaii-based product companies, built to help them scale operations, grow revenue, and develop as leaders. Meli James and Brittany Heyd founded the program in 2018.
Since 2018, Mana Up has supported 105 companies. Its alumni generated $105 million in revenue in 2024 and created 1,035 jobs; 47% of supported companies are Native-Hawaiian owned, 72% are female-founded or led, and 75% manufacture their products in Hawaii.
How it works
Founders get hands-on guidance tailored to their stage of growth, from experts in finance, human resources, CPG, retail, and technology.
Companies get market access through House of Mana Up's retail stores and e-commerce site, the annual Mana Up Showcase, and global sales events such as Aloha Market in Tokyo and Los Angeles.
Founders join a cohort community with fellow entrepreneurs, program alumni, and partners.
Cohort 11 has already been selected; Cohort 12 applications are open.
Who can apply
The company must be a Hawaii-based consumer product company.
How to apply
- Complete the Cohort 12 application through the online Google Form.
Frequently asked
How long is the Mana Up program?
Six months.
What kind of companies does Mana Up accept?
Hawaii-based consumer product companies.
What do companies get from the program?
Hands-on mentorship in finance, HR, CPG, and retail, plus market access through House of Mana Up's retail and e-commerce channels, the Mana Up Showcase, and events like Aloha Market in Tokyo and Los Angeles.
How do I apply?
Fill out the online application form for the current cohort.
More funding in Hawaii
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Get a $50,000 to $125,000 state loan for a Hawaii small business in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, or wholesaling.
Enterprise Zones (EZ) Partnership Program
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HI-CAP (Hawaiʻi Capital Access Program)
HTDC and Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority (HGIA), under the Dept. of Business, Economic Development & Tourism · Hawaii
Get state-backed loan collateral or direct capital for transformative Hawaii business projects, funded by the federal SSBCI program through 2030.
Hawaiʻi Small Business Innovation Research (HSBIR) Grants
Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) · Hawaii
Get up to $75,000 in state matching funds if you already hold a federal SBIR or STTR Phase I award and work in Hawaii.
Manufacturing Assistance Program (MAP)
Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) · Hawaii
Hawaii manufacturers get up to $100,000 reimbursed, 20% of qualified costs, to boost productivity and competitiveness.
Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.