We’re proud to introduce the ten incredible companies joining Cohort 10 of Mana Up, a Hawai‘i-based accelerator and economic development initiative that helps local product companies scale globally—while creating jobs, opportunities, and strengthening community across the islands.
What started as a humble gig in a nut-packing room has blossomed into one of Kaua‘i’s tastiest entrepreneurial success stories. Kauai Gourmet Nuts, founded by Billy Carter in 2017, is a locally rooted snack brand that’s redefining the macadamia nut—one small batch at a time.
Known for its artisan, island-inspired flavors like li hing mui, honey coconut and chili cacao, the company sources Hawaiian-grown macadamias—many from Kaua‘i’s north and south shores—and turns them into craveable, high-quality snacks. The result? A true taste of Hawai‘i, handcrafted and heartfelt.
A Journey Sparked by Family and Flavor
Billy’s path to entrepreneurship didn’t start in a boardroom—it began on the floor of a nut processing facility over a decade ago.
“When I first got to Kaua‘i, I was supposed to help a private chef, but that fell through,” Billy says. “I had less than $1,000 to my name. So I answered a help-wanted ad and started bagging nuts. That’s how it all began.”
Years later, after a short time away from the island for the birth of his son in Canada, Billy returned to Kaua‘i with a new sense of purpose. He blended his background in culinary arts, logistics, and business to create Kauai Gourmet Nuts, a brand that celebrates Hawai‘i’s ingredients and uplifts local agriculture.
“I wanted to build something that gave my family a better life—and supported the local farms and communities I care about,” he says.
Local Flavor, Global Vision
The brand quickly grew from two farmers markets a week to nearly daily events and wholesale accounts. Then came a turning point: a prime retail space offer from a property management company.
“To be approached like that was a huge vote of confidence,” Billy recalls. “It showed that the community valued what we were doing.”
Today, Kauai Gourmet Nuts operates two brick-and-mortar stores — in Kapa‘a and Kōloa—where customers can sample flavors and experience the aloha firsthand. “People don’t just remember the nuts,” Billy says. “They remember how we made them feel.”
Staying True to the Mission
Like many Hawai‘i-based businesses, Billy’s company has faced supply chain challenges. At one point, demand outpaced what Kaua‘i farms could provide, and the main farm he worked with was sold. Rather than compromise, he pivoted.
“I started sourcing macadamias from the Big Island to stay true to using Hawaiian-grown nuts—even though it meant higher costs,” he says. “I also introduced a mixed nut line with some mainland ingredients to support growth while staying committed to our values.”
Those decisions reflect a deep-rooted mission: to celebrate Hawaiian flavors, support local farms, and create a product that people can trust and enjoy.
“You simply can’t get Hawaiian macadamias anywhere but Hawai‘i. And beyond that, our process and flavors are one-of-a-kind.”
A Brand that Gives Back
For Billy, success isn’t just about profit—it’s about community impact. His management team is made up entirely of Kaua‘i locals, and he hires entry-level employees with a focus on training and mentorship.
“We’re not just selling snacks—we’re creating opportunities,” he says. “One of my goals is to take local kids on field trips to working macadamia farms so they can see how rewarding it is to work the land.”
As the business grows, so does his desire to give back—through school sponsorships, community partnerships, and cultural education.
What Makes It Uniquely Hawai‘i
“You simply can’t get Hawaiian macadamias anywhere but Hawai‘i,” Billy says. “And beyond that, our process and flavors are one-of-a-kind.”
Using German nut-glazing equipment and techniques inspired by the Bavarian candy nut tradition, Billy has created a signature product line that feels both gourmet and homegrown. Flavors range from sweet and nostalgic to bold and spicy—and each batch is made with care.
His personal favorite? Cacao Chip Macadamias. “They taste just like chocolate chip cookies,” he grins.
What’s Next for Kauai Gourmet Nuts?
Looking ahead, Billy envisions a future where Kauai Gourmet Nuts reaches even more customers across the islands—and beyond. He’s focused on growing the brand’s online presence, with a goal of making e-commerce 20% of total revenue through SEO, social media, and targeted online marketing.
He also plans to expand their retail footprint to O‘ahu, Maui, the Big Island, and add a third storefront on Kaua‘i, all while continuing to support local farmers markets on each island. On the wholesale front, he’s aiming to scale distribution into specialty stores, national retailers, and hotel amenity programs. And internationally, Billy sees strong potential in the Japanese omiyage market, where he hopes to introduce the brand through duty-free shops, custom gift packaging, and eventually, physical retail locations.
While the roadmap is ambitious, Billy’s vision remains grounded in the same values that started it all—celebrating local flavors, supporting Hawaiian agriculture, and building a business that reflects the spirit of aloha.
But no matter how far the brand goes, Billy says its heart will remain on Kaua‘i.
“My team keeps me grounded,” he says. “They treat the shops like their own. They’ve even sent me away before—just so I could take a break. That’s the kind of trust and pride we’ve built.”
His advice for others dreaming of starting a business in Hawai‘i?
“Have faith in yourself. Work harder than anyone else, and don’t be afraid to bet on your own vision. Every leap I’ve taken started with that.”
Explore Kauai Gourmet Nuts’ artisan snacks at kauaigourmetnuts.com
Follow on Instagram: @kauaigourmetnuts
