Join us to explore how founders can sharpen business plans, structure funding rounds, and choose between venture capital and accelerators.
- 1-on-1 sessions with personalized insights
- Tailored to your business journey
- Pitches welcome for feedback only
- Resources and connections to support you
- Booking confirmation will be sent via email
- Takes place every first Tuesday
- Limited spots available (10-14)
- RSVP by Saturday, April 3
NOTE: This event is by appointment only. Participants will be contacted via email to confirm their session time. Sessions will consist of 25-minute, one-on-one meetings focused on guidance and discussion; there will be no pitching involved.
Blue StartUps
Blue Startups is a Honolulu-based venture accelerator that helps early-stage technology companies grow and compete on a global scale through mentoring, seed investment, and access to an extensive international network. It was founded in 2012 by Henk Rogers, Maya Rogers, and Chenoa Farnsworth to diversify Hawaii’s economy and foster a thriving tech ecosystem between Asia and the United States. The accelerator runs an intensive 12-week program for selected startups, offering support in product development, business strategy, and investor introductions. Blue Startups has been recognized as one of the top accelerator programs in the U.S. and hosts events like the annual East Meets West conference to connect founders, investors, and industry leaders.
Startup Capital Venture x SBI Fund
Startup Capital Ventures x SBI Fund is an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to supporting B2B software and technology startups. The fund focuses on investing at the Seed to Series A stages, particularly in sectors like FinTech, cybersecurity, enterprise SaaS, and deep technology, offering both capital and active support to founders. Its mission emphasizes thoughtful partnership and long-term growth for innovative companies.
VC Builders
Builders VC is an early-stage venture capital firm that partners with founders to modernize longstanding, underserved industries through innovative technology and new business models. The firm focuses on backing companies across sectors like healthcare, agriculture, industrials, and real estate, aiming to turn complex legacy systems into more efficient, growth-oriented markets. Founded in 2018, Builders VC brings together experienced operators and investors to support startups through capital, strategic guidance, and operational insights. Its portfolio includes a diverse set of companies addressing mission-critical problems, reflecting the firm’s belief in long-term value creation through transformative technology.
OM/VC
OM/VC (OM Venture Capital) is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in technology-enabled companies addressing meaningful, real-world challenges. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, deep technology, and climate-related innovations, providing support from Seed to Series A stages. OM/VC emphasizes disciplined execution, thoughtful leadership, and scalable business models designed for long-term value creation. Founded to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s innovation ecosystem, the firm connects local startups with national and international investors and resources.
M^NA Up
Mana Up is a Hawaiʻi-based accelerator and venture platform that helps local consumer brands grow into competitive national and global businesses. The program supports companies that authentically reflect Hawaiʻi’s culture, values, and community roots, offering mentorship, capital, and operational guidance. Mana Up provides hands-on support in areas including branding, marketing, supply chain management, and distribution strategy. Its mission is to build scalable, values-driven businesses while retaining economic value and jobs within Hawaiʻi.
Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Hawaiʻi
Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Hawaiʻi is part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit network, connecting commercial innovators with government and defense organizations. The hub supports companies developing defense, security, and dual-use technologies, providing guidance on requirements alignment, pilot programs, and federal pathways. It serves as a collaborative space for training, experimentation, and industry-government matchmaking. Leveraging Hawaiʻi’s strategic location and research assets, the hub advances innovation with relevance to both national security and commercial applications.