Join a global celebration of creativity in May. Sign up for Release Day!
Skip to main content

Meli James

SALT at Our Kakaako

part of a series on Mentor

About the speaker

Meli James is the co-founder of Mana Up, a Hawaii-based product business accelerator program and venture fund designed to diversify the local economy and create jobs for locals. Born and raised in Honolulu, Meli lived in Silicon Valley for more than 10 years where she co-founded numerous startups including Nirvino – a #1 ranked wine app and Apple Platform Top 100 App, during its time. She is also the president of the Hawaii Venture Capital Association.

Founded by Meli and her co-founder, Brittany Heyd, Mana Up has seen 95 companies go through its business program that help local companies grow and scale to global markets, all while bringing our islands’ premium products to the world. Purchases from House of Mana Up retail shops online and in store help to create local jobs, share Hawaii's culture and community giveback.

Local partners

Additional details

Doors open to the public at 8:00am beginning with music by Chante, a light breakfast from Jamba Juice, and Honolulu Coffee.

Stick around for giveaways from Spectra Foundation and more!

PARKING INFO: Enter on Keawe Street to access multi-level parking structure (P) 266 Stalls (10 ADA Stalls, 2 EV Charging Stalls) Automated Parking System Height Clearance: 7 feet Parking Garage Operating Hours: 24 hours FREE parking for the first hour, no validation required. With validation from SALT at Our Kaka‘ako shops or restaurants: 1st hour: FREE (no validation required) Up to 2 hours: $1 Up to 3 hours: $2 Up to 4 hours: $4 4 hours & up: $4 + posted rates

Standard Non-Validated Rate/Posted Rate: $3 per 30 minutes or fraction thereof. Lost Ticket: $48 Max. Daily: $48

Districtwide parking is available at: The Flats at Pu‘unui Keauhou Lane