Small Business Saturday is more than a shopping day—it’s an opportunity to champion the creativity, innovation, and resilience of local entrepreneurs who bring their unique stories to life through their brands and products. At House of Mana Up, we’re proud to support a community of talented makers and small businesses that represent the very best of Hawai‘i.
From handcrafted goods to locally sourced treats, these entrepreneurs infuse every product with aloha, culture, and sustainability. Their businesses not only elevate the authenticity of Hawai‘i’s story but also create meaningful impacts on our local economy.
This Small Business Saturday, we invite you to discover the remarkable products and people who redefine what it means to shop local.
We've gathered the advice of local entrepreneurs that have graduated from Mana Up's accelerator program and are making their voices heard.
Align with people who think big and focus being the best you can be regionally in your own community.
What piece of advice would you give to a budding entrepreneur?
"A great quote from Reid Hoffman is 'starting a company is like jumping off a cliff and assembling a plane on the way down -- your willingness to jump is your most valuable asset as an entrepreneur," says Ben Lillibridge, founder of Malama Mushrooms, who has engaged with Foodland and Whole Foods since graduating from the Mana Up accelerator program. "Take risks, but don't get in over your head!"
"Be passionate about your product," says Jamie Lyons, founder of Hobbs Tea. "Relationships are everything, good vibes always!"
Jina Wye, founder of Okonokai, encourages entrepreneurs to forge their own path. "Be delusional. You're going to have one huge disappoinment for every 10 'wins'. Dont' let it get you down."
"Don't be afraid to jump right in. Do the work and make mistakes. Learn from it and keep going.
Make a plan, says Melia Goodenow, founder of Hawaiian Rainforest Naturals. "Write down what you really want to happen - not just how much money you want to make but your truth about why and what you are trying to create.
Mana up has certainly expanded my mind and what the possibilities are — my understanding of business and operating on a large scale."
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned since launching your business?
"My most valuable lesson is to continue to focus on my north star which I set early on in the business," says Brynn Foster, founder of
Voyaging Foods. "I will focus decisions based upon my 'why.' Life happens with distractions, detractors and instigators and setting my inner compass to my north star has gotten me through the most challenging times of my life. Align with people who think big and focus being the best you can be regionally in your own community. This is actually the advice I received from one of the largest North American food brands."
"The power of a strong network and how it can get you in front of the right people at the right time," says Janice Leilani LaFontaine, founder of Farm to Fudge Maui. "You've got to be resilient to make it as an entrepreneur!"
"Business is a sport," says Blaine Kusler, founder of UA Body Hawaii. "Don't get comfortable. Always be searching for ways that your brand can grow and differentiate itself in the marketplace. Identify your white space and how your brand will fill that space."
"Seek out mentors because you don't know what you don't know," advises NOHO Home founder Jalene Kanani, who has worked with Mana Up to introduce her brand to new markets, including Japan and New York City.
"Start before you’re ready," adds Ashley Johnson, founder of Mohala Eyewear. "Don’t overthink. Take as much action as you can each day. Ask yourself each day how are you driving sales. It never hurts to cold email someone and ask."
"Stay open to new ideas and be willing to learn from every experience, as the market, customer preferences, and technology are in constant flux.
To the budding entrepreneurs, my advice is to wholeheartedly believe in your vision and maintain a genuine passion for your work," says Alice Kim, founder of Hanalei Company. "This dedication not only fuels your journey but also inspires those around you, creating a positive ripple effect that can drive your business forward. I've learned that resilience is key; the entrepreneurial path is often filled with challenges and unexpected twists. Embracing adaptability is equally crucial.
The most valuable lesson I've learned since launching my business is the importance of a compelling brand narrative and effective networking. A strong brand story sets you apart and connects with your audience on an emotional level. Meanwhile, building genuine relationships and collaborating with others in your industry can open doors to new opportunities and drive growth. Combining a powerful brand identity with robust networking efforts has been crucial for success."
If you could tell your younger self something before you started your business, what would you say?
"Get ready for the journey of your life," says Karli Rose Wilson, founder of To Be Hawaii. "A blazing trail of self discovery and growth. Oh... and get a business coach right away. Don't give up. The struggles are real, but so are the rewards..personally and professionally."
"I would tell myself to not worry or stress so much," says Sarah Kawakami, co-founder of Alikaleo Park. "It's like parenthood, it's not a race, it's a marathon. Everything takes time and you have to just take one day at a time. You only live once! Starting your own business is so gutsy and brave. It's hard and challenging but at the same time, rewarding and feeds your soul!"
"Just keep going!" says Loren Shoop, founder of cassava chip maker 'Ulu Mana. "Yes there there are a million roadblocks but just keep attacking them. You will make it. Keep it simple and easy. You can try many things to see what works, but once you find what works, drop the clutter and focus on what is working."
"I would tell my younger self to keep holding the vision of what you want to bring to life. But also don’t be afraid to do the nitty gritty work that comes with a successful business venture.
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned since launching my business is that it is so important to lay the groundwork for your business to grow and thrive," says Alohi Keohuloa, founder of Pō Naturals. "If you have a vision, an idea or a mission, it’s good to use that 'why' to propel you forward when challenging times arise but don’t cut corners when it comes to your numbers. Make sure everything is accounted for! Create a solid foundation for your business so you and your team can ensure success even in hard times."
Since participating in Mana Up, I’ve expanded my product line to include an array of different body care products and I opened up my own Brick and Mortar store that will be celebrating our third anniversary this year!"
