Applications are officially open for the 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy. Designed specifically to supercharge high-potential, scalable enterprises across the African continent, this competition features a massive $2 million total prize pool, including a life-changing $1 million Grand Prize.
Beyond the funding, selected innovators will gain access to exclusive networking circles and the invaluable opportunity to pitch directly to global industry leaders and key venture capital decision-makers.
What is the Milken-Motsepe Prize looking for?
The competition focuses on commercially viable, tech-driven circular economy business models already operating in Africa. Winning teams must demonstrate a clear roadmap to scale, showing how their business actively keeps materials in circulation, reduces environmental degradation, and creates meaningful social and economic value for local communities.
Businesses will be rigorously evaluated based on four main pillars:
- Commercial Viability: A proven, sustainable business model.
- Market Scalability: The capacity to expand and grow across markets.
- Workforce & Social Impact: Concrete evidence of job creation and community development.
- Circularity & Environmental Footprint: A measurable positive impact on ecological systems.
Targeted Industry Focus Areas
While all innovative circular concepts are welcome, teams must submit sector-specific metrics. The program heavily highlights the following critical industries:
- Agriculture & Food Systems: Minimizing post-harvest losses and maximizing food value chains.
- Plastics & Packaging: Developing alternative materials and advanced recycling models.
- Electronics: Extending the lifespan of devices and handling e-waste responsibly.
- Textiles: Sustainable fashion manufacturing and fabric reclamation.
- Construction & The Built Environment: Eco-friendly building materials and green architecture solutions.
Eligibility Requirements: Do You Qualify?
To ensure that prize money goes toward rapid scaling, the committee is targeting established growth-stage startups rather than early-stage ideas. Your business must fulfill the following criteria:
- Operational Track Record: Minimum of 2 years of continuous, verifiable business operations.
- Financial Traction: Must have generated or raised at least $500,000 USD in revenue or investment capital.
- Strategic Networks: Established partnerships with corporate, institutional, or public-sector entities.
- Geographic Footprint: The solution must be currently deployed and actively functioning on the African continent.
- Social & Economic Impact: Documented evidence of positive social impact and job creation.
- Funding Readiness: Demonstrated operational capability to efficiently absorb and deploy investments exceeding $1 million.
Competition Stage
Selection Details
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Financial Award
1. Semifinalist Round:
- 10 teams selected based on their core designs and business models.
- $50,000 USD per team
2. Pitch Event & Finalist Round:
- 5 teams selected after pitching live to judges and industry leaders.
- $50,000 USD additional per team
3. The Grand Finale:
- Final materials evaluated by the global committee.
- $1,000,000 USD (Winner)
- $250,000 USD (Runner-up)
How to Apply
If your business aligns with these criteria and you are ready to take your venture to the next level, do not wait until the final rush. Ensure your business models, impact data, and financial statements are updated and ready.
Apply Here: https://milkenmotsepeprize.org/circular-economy/
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
