Hawaii's startup scene is supported by a core group of accelerators. Blue Startups has made over 100 investments in tech companies, while Mana Up has backed over 70 local product businesses.

The ecosystem also includes state-backed programs and university-focused ventures. These organizations provide foundational support for new companies across the islands.

Below is our list of the best 5 accelerators and incubators in Hawaii.

Failory's Top 5 Picks

Blue Startups focuses on helping scalable technology companies, particularly in web and mobile, compete on a global scale. Recognized as a top 20 accelerator in the US, their program provides the network and guidance necessary for international growth.

Year Founded2012
FoundersChenoa Farnsworth, Maya Rogers, Henk Rogers
Nº of Investments120
Nº of Exits5
Program TypeOn-Site
Duration (Weeks)12
Mana Up Logo

2. Mana Up

Mana Up champions Hawaii's next generation of entrepreneurs through a 12-week accelerator program designed for consumer product companies. They provide the resources and network needed to help local businesses in sectors like food, beauty, and retail scale from the islands to a global stage.

Year Founded2017
FoundersBrittany Heyd, Meli James
Nº of Investments71
Nº of Exits
Program TypeOn-Site
Duration (Weeks)12

As a state agency, the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) champions economic diversification by providing local tech startups and manufacturers with critical resources and growth programs. They aim to build a resilient, tech-driven economy for the state through initiatives that offer grants, mentorship, and strategic support to foster innovation.

Year Founded1983
FoundersRobbie Melton
Nº of Investments5
Nº of Exits
XLR8UH Logo

4. XLR8UH

XLR8UH works to commercialize research and talent from the University of Hawai‘i system through education, mentorship, and investment. The program helps launch early-stage companies in sectors like healthcare and life sciences by providing critical mentorship and seed funding.

Year Founded2014
FoundersOmar S Sultan, Tarik Sultan
Nº of Investments25
Nº of Exits

The Omidyar Group operates as a diverse portfolio of companies and initiatives, all driven by the shared mission to create positive social change. They support ventures that aim to improve communities and the public sector, providing the resources and strategic guidance needed to address complex global challenges.

Year Founded
FoundersPam Omidyar
Nº of Investments2
Nº of Exits