Kapena - Resend to Nonopeners

As Kapena Tequila continues its equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine into 2026, the Hawaiʻi-inspired brand is gaining attention beyond consumers—drawing interest from experienced voices across both the spirits industry and the business world. That attention has begun to translate into national visibility, including coverage on AP News, a signal of growing credibility for the brand’s approach.

Among those taking notice is Kevin O’Leary, entrepreneur, investor, and Shark Tank personality known for his disciplined, fundamentals-driven approach to evaluating companies. O’Leary recently commented on Kapena’s strategy, pointing to its positioning within the tequila category.

For an investor recognized for prioritizing structure and scalability over hype, the remark reflects interest in Kapena’s methodical approach at a time when the tequila market continues to expand rapidly.

A Growing Category, a Different Approach

Tequila is among the fastest-growing spirits categories globally and is projected to surpass whiskey in U.S. retail sales. While many brands have entered the space through celebrity partnerships and short-term trend cycles, Kapena has positioned itself around production quality, cultural identity, and long-term scalability.

The brand’s foundation is Kapena Silver, produced from 100% Blue Weber agave grown for eight to ten years in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The tequila is distilled at NOM 1468, the same distillery behind LALO Tequila, a brand widely respected by industry professionals for its adherence to traditional production standards.

Kapena Silver received a 93-point rating from the Beverage Tasting Institute, establishing a quality benchmark for the brand and serving as the base for its infused expressions.

Cultural Influence and Product Differentiation

Building on that base, Kapena has developed infused expressions inspired by Hawaiʻi, incorporating flavors such as li hing mui and Hawaiian chili pepper. The brand frames these offerings as a bridge between Mexican tequila-making tradition and island-inspired ingredients—an approach it believes differentiates Kapena in a crowded premium spirits market.

According to the company, the goal is not novelty for its own sake, but thoughtful integration of cultural elements while maintaining respect for traditional tequila craftsmanship.

Expansion and Ownership

Kapena’s stated long-term objective is to become Hawaiʻi’s leading tequila brand while expanding distribution into additional U.S. markets. The company’s bottles are handcrafted by glass artisans, with each bottle individually blown—reflecting an emphasis on design and brand storytelling alongside production.

Through its ongoing Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) offering on StartEngine, Kapena is inviting members of the public to invest and participate as shareholders. The campaign allows everyday investors—not just institutional capital—to take part in the company’s growth.

Momentum and Market Positioning

As the campaign continues, Kapena points to several indicators it believes support its growth trajectory, including third-party product ratings, category expansion, and rising consumer awareness. Industry observers note that brands combining production credibility with disciplined market positioning are increasingly attracting investor interest as competition in the spirits space intensifies.

For investors evaluating opportunities in the premium spirits category, Kapena represents a brand seeking to balance cultural identity, product quality, and scalable distribution within a rapidly growing market.

Explore the investment opportunity HERE.

Funding Round Details

• Raise: Active

• Valuation: 7M

• Minimum Investment: $500

• Platform: StartEngine

This Reg CF offering is made available through StartEngine Primary, LLC. This investment is speculative, illiquid, and involves a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment.