Austin, Texas, January 6, 2026
Austin entrepreneur Ross Cooley and his co-founders are celebrated for their innovative pre-workout product, HNY+, which uses natural ingredients to enhance athletic performance. Included in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, this recognition highlights the vibrant startup culture in Austin, showcasing how local entrepreneurs are reshaping consumer preferences towards health-conscious products.
Austin Entrepreneurs Make Forbes’ 2026 30 Under 30 List
Innovative Pre-Workout Product HNY+ Gains Recognized Attention
Austin, Texas – Austin entrepreneur Ross Cooley has been recognized in Forbes’ 2026 30 Under 30 list for his innovative pre-workout product, HNY+. Cooley, along with co-founders Liam Brogan and Luke Smialowicz, developed HNY+ to provide athletes with a natural energy source, utilizing organic honey, salt, and magnesium to enhance performance.
This recognition shines a light on the vibrant startup culture thriving in Austin, where entrepreneurial spirit flourishes, and innovation is celebrated. It also underscores how minimal regulatory burdens can empower small businesses to rapidly develop and bring to market solutions tailored to consumer needs. As Cooley and his partners tap into the growing demand for clean, natural products, they are contributing to the larger movement towards health-consciousness in consumer purchasing behavior.
The Genesis of HNY+
The trio met while studying entrepreneurship at Texas Christian University, where they were motivated by a desire to create a cleaner alternative to traditional pre-workout supplements, which often contain artificial ingredients. They began by experimenting with homemade blends, which eventually led to the development of the HNY+ product line.
Local Engagement Drives Development
After graduating, the founders relocated to Austin, where they actively engaged with local run clubs to gather feedback and refine their product. This community involvement proved to be instrumental in HNY+’s development and success, allowing the team to directly address the preferences and needs of athletes in the area.
A Diverse Product Offering
HNY+ offers both caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions of their pre-workout gel, catering to a broad spectrum of athletes looking for natural energy solutions. This flexibility aligns with the evolving preferences of consumers, who increasingly favor products made from recognizable, natural ingredients.
Acknowledgment in the Health and Wellness Industry
HNY+’s inclusion in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list highlights the growing trend of health-conscious consumers seeking natural and clean ingredients in their fitness supplements. This recognition underscores the significant impact innovative entrepreneurs like Cooley have on shaping the future of the health and wellness industry, incentivizing other startups to rethink their product offerings in line with consumer demands.
Supporting Local Businesses
With its forward-thinking approach and community-focused strategy, the success of HNY+ serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses in Austin. By prioritizing cleaner, natural products, Cooley and his team exemplify how entrepreneurs can respond thoughtfully to consumer interests while contributing positively to the local economy.
Conclusion
The journey of HNY+ is a testament to the potential that resides within Austin’s entrepreneurial landscape. Cooley, Brogan, and Smialowicz are not just changing the game in the pre-workout segment; they are also fostering a culture of innovation within the community. Their story encourages consumers to support local businesses as they navigate an increasingly health-focused market, paving the way for future entrepreneurs eager to make their mark in Austin, Texas.
FAQ
- What is HNY+?
- HNY+ is a pre-workout performance gel developed by Austin entrepreneur Ross Cooley and his co-founders. It utilizes organic honey, salt, and magnesium to provide athletes with a natural energy source.
- Who are the founders of HNY+?
- The founders of HNY+ are Ross Cooley, Liam Brogan, and Luke Smialowicz. They met while studying entrepreneurship at Texas Christian University.
- What motivated the creation of HNY+?
- The founders were motivated by the desire to create a cleaner alternative to traditional pre-workout supplements, which often contain artificial ingredients. They aimed to provide athletes with a natural energy source.
- How did the founders gather feedback for HNY+?
- After graduating, the founders relocated to Austin, where they engaged with local run clubs to gather feedback and refine their product. This community involvement was instrumental in HNY+’s development and success.
- What versions of HNY+ are available?
- HNY+ is available in both caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions, catering to a wide range of athletes seeking natural energy solutions.
- What recognition has HNY+ received?
- HNY+ was included in Forbes’ 2026 30 Under 30 list, highlighting the growing trend of health-conscious consumers seeking natural and clean ingredients in their fitness supplements.
Key Features of HNY+
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural Ingredients | Utilizes organic honey, salt, and magnesium to provide a clean energy source. |
| Product Versions | Available in both caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions to suit different athlete preferences. |
| Community Engagement | Developed with feedback from local run clubs in Austin, ensuring the product meets athlete needs. |
| Industry Recognition | Included in Forbes’ 2026 30 Under 30 list, highlighting its impact in the health and wellness industry. |
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