FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions below:

What are the basic criteria to qualify for the program?

For Profit (structured as an LLC or corporation)
Proof of Concept (i.e. Sales, Partnerships, Active Users, etc.)
50% of FoundHers must be women, of Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, or Asian descent, AND based in Hawaiʻi
Early Stage (under 3 years of existence)
Falls under at least one of our five industries of focus Tech, Food, Fashion, Keiki/Education, and Health/Wellness
FoundHers’ values align with our own

Can you give me examples of businesses in the industries you are targeting?

Tech: communication systems, social media, IoT, online activism, AI, computer science
Food Systems/Restaurants: farms, produce, consumer goods
Fashion: accessories, clothing, apparel recycling/disposal programs
Health & Wellness: spirituality, beauty products, natural remedies, mental health services, fitness
Keiki/Education: children's toys, education programs or tools, art and art programs

I have been in operation for 4 years, but your qualifications say 3 years. Can I still apply?

If you aren’t sure if you meet every program qualification, we encourage you to submit an inquiry, or submit an application.

How much funding will selected companies receive?

Funding amounts will be determined at the beginning of the program.

Do you take an equity stake in return for the funding?

No, the funding is a grant and does not take equity in return.

What is the time commitment for the program?

On average, our participants spend 15 hours per week on the program, including curriculum meetings, mentor meetings, and assignments. This does not include the in-person retreats that take place over 1 weekend per-month.

What do I do if I have more questions?

Fill out an inquiry at the bottom of the page, or email angel@purplemaia.org with your question.

I am not Asian, Pacific Islander, or Native Hawaiian. Can I still participate in the program?

A requirement of our program is that at least 50% of the founders are Asian, Pacific Islander, and/or Native Hawaiian women.

Is this a grant?

FoundHer is a 6-month business accelerator that provides a non-dilutive grant as part of the program. You are required to fully participate in the programming to receive the grant.