The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy calls on scalable companies using technology to enhance circular economy practices across a variety of industries in Africa. This prize offers $2 million in total prizes, including a $1 million grand prize. Participating companies will also gain access to exclusive networking and the opportunity to pitch to industry leaders and key decision-makers.Â
Application Deadline:
Registration is now open. Check the Prize Portal for submission timelines.
Tell Me About the Opportunity:
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy offers $2 million in total prizes, including a $1 million Grand Prize, to scalable companies using technology to advance circular economy practices across industries in Africa. Participants gain access to exclusive networking and opportunities to pitch to industry leaders and decision-makers.
Which Sectors are Eligible?
- Agriculture & Food Systems
- Plastics & Packaging
- Electronics
- Textiles
- Construction & Built Environment
Type:
Prize competition — technology-enabled circular economy business models.
Who can Apply?
Companies meeting the following requirements:
- Over 2 years of continuous operation
- Over $500k in revenue and raised capital
- Institutional, corporate, or public-sector partnerships
- Solution deployed in Africa
- Evidence of social impact and job creation
- Operational readiness to deploy $1M+ in funding
How are Applicants Selected?
Teams are evaluated on:
- Commercial viability
- Market scalability
- Workforce and social impact
- Circularity and environmental impact
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Africa-focused businesses, with solutions deployed on the continent.
Where will the Opportunity be Taken?
Across Africa, with industry-specific metrics required for each sector.
How Many Opportunities?
- 10 semifinalists (each awarded $50,000)
- 5 finalists (each awarded $50,000)
- 1 Grand Prize winner ($1 million)
- 1 runner-up ($250,000)
What is the Benefit of the Opportunity?
- Up to $2 million in total prizes
- Networking with industry leaders
- Opportunity to pitch to decision-makers
- Visibility for scalable circular economy solutions
How Long Will the Support Last?
Prize rounds include:
- Semifinalist announcement after submission
- Pitch event & finalist announcement
- Grand Prize announcement following final submissions
How to Apply:
- Register and sign in via the Prize Portal
- Submit designs and business models with category-specific metrics
- Advance through semifinalist and finalist rounds
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
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