Manoa Enhancing Student Success | University of Hawaiʻi System News

Makai Aquatics wins 2026 UH Venture Competition with reef fish aquaculture innovation

Student entrepreneurs from across Hawaiʻi earned top honors at the 2026 UH Venture Competition finals at Mānoa.

Ortiz describes the university as a “second home” that supported his personal growth.

The program is expected to continue in future semesters with an emphasis on expanding student participation and strengthening connections.

The spring program ran every Saturday from January through April and offered both in-person classes at UH and online through Zoom.

The 14-week pilot program paired 20 engineering students with 20 mentors in individualized, one-on-one matches.

Rocket League requires strategy, communication, teamwork and quick decision-making under pressure.

The effort collected more than 2,600 menstrual products to support students facing food, housing and hygiene insecurity.

The program places undergraduate students in courses across campus to help facilitate active, discussion-based learning.

Murillo’s path at UH Mānoa reflects a multidisciplinary journey shaped by hands-on research and mentorship.

All net proceeds from the annual banquet goes directly to supporting the many student projects showcased at the event.