Fellows mentioned in this story: Meli James
From Pacific Inno:
When Meli James and Brittany Heyd launched Mana Up in 2017, they had a vision to diversify Hawai‘i’s economy and expand job opportunities by helping local product companies scale globally.
Today, the organization is realizing that vision.
Mana Up’s product accelerator program is designed for consumer brand businesses that are based in Hawai‘i and have the potential to expand internationally. To date, 85 local companies have graduated from the program, with alumni businesses including well-known names such as Mohala Eyewear, keiki clothing company Coco Moon, and frozen treat brand Banan, just to name a few.
James recently told Pacific Business News that Mana Up companies brought in $72 million in revenue last year alone. Those companies represent 874 jobs, and they’re growing at a mean rate of 33% annually, she said.
Now, Mana Up is gearing up to host its next cohort, Cohort 9, which is comprised of 10 product businesses from throughout the state.
Continue reading at bizjournals.com.
Midweek — American Savings Bank planted three mānele trees, which are native to Hawai‘i, at ‘A‘ala Park. The company also collaborated with more than 75 volunteers from nine local companies to help with graffiti removal, trash pickup and mural beautification.