Fellows mentioned in this story: Meli James, Cohort VII

From Civil Beat:

As the Covid-19 crisis underscores Hawai‘i’s reliance on tourism, innovation executives say now is the time to push hard to develop other economic sectors.

...

On the ground floor of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, tucked in a prime retail space once occupied by Louis Vuitton, Meli James is showing that small Hawaii brands can compete with her neighbors, world-famous brands like Tiffany & Co. and Hermes.

James’ House of Mana Up sells consumer goods from companies that James’ incubator, Mana Up, has cultivated. They include candy bars from Manoa Chocolate, scarves by Lola Pilar Hawai‘i and bedding by Noho Home.

Continue reading at civilbeat.org.