Jordan Bentley

Jordan Bentley’s entrepreneurial story is one of determination, creativity, and cultural fusion. Starting with a single silk screen machine gifted to him at 14, Bentley transformed a teenage hobby into Hypland, a global streetwear powerhouse blending anime culture with fashion. Today, Hypland isn’t just a clothing brand—it’s a movement that empowers fans and unites communities.

Jordan Bentley’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on. Growing up in Los Angeles, he was heavily influenced by the city’s vibrant street culture and his love of anime. A Christmas gift from his parents—a silk screen printer—was the catalyst. Bentley began designing and printing t-shirts in his mother’s living room. Initially, he sold them to classmates, treating the endeavor as a fun side project.

What started as a small operation quickly grew. By the time Bentley attended UC Irvine, he had already built Hypland into a recognizable brand among local streetwear enthusiasts. He combined his passions for anime and fashion to create unique collections inspired by beloved series like Bleach and Naruto. The key to his early success was tapping into a niche market that had been overlooked—stylish, high-quality anime merchandise.

Bentley’s vision was more than just fashion. When Hypland opened its flagship store in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, it wasn’t designed merely as a retail space. Bentley envisioned it as a community hub, a place where fans could shop, connect, and celebrate shared interests. The store features gaming areas, manga collections, and spaces for events, reflecting Bentley’s commitment to building a sense of belonging.

Breaking into the anime industry was no easy feat. Licensing deals with Japanese companies required navigating strict creative guidelines and cultural nuances. Despite these challenges, Bentley remained steadfast, learning to balance creative freedom with respect for intellectual properties. This approach led to collaborations with major anime brands, propelling Hypland to international fame.

Financially, Hypland’s growth has been remarkable. By leveraging strategic collaborations and consistently delivering quality, Bentley turned a small business into a multimillion-dollar brand. Hypland’s global reach, from anime expos to online sales, showcases the brand’s universal appeal.

Bentley’s journey is a testament to perseverance and vision. From selling t-shirts out of his mother’s car to running a thriving brand, he has redefined what it means to merge fandom with fashion. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Find your niche, and go all in. Passion is the foundation, but execution is everything.”

Jordan Bentley’s story reminds us that the most impactful ventures are born from genuine passion and a drive to make a difference. With Hypland, he has not only created a successful business but also fostered a community that celebrates individuality and shared enthusiasm.

Three Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs from Jordan Bentley's Journey:

1. Turn Passion into Business: Bentley’s love for anime and streetwear culture became the foundation of Hypland. Identify what you are genuinely passionate about and think creatively about how to turn it into a unique business opportunity.

2. Adapt and Collaborate: Bentley learned to navigate strict licensing agreements with Japanese anime companies, balancing creativity with compliance. Embrace challenges as opportunities to refine your approach and work collaboratively with stakeholders to bring visions to life.

3. Create Community, Not Just a Product: Hypland is more than a brand; it’s a hub for like-minded fans. Focus on building connections through your business, offering not just a product but an experience that resonates with your audience.