2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy ($2 million in total prizes)

1

Application Deadline: August 13, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy. 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.

The winning team will demonstrate a commercially viable, technology-enabled circular economy business operating in Africa with a clear path to scale. The business will reduce waste, keep materials in circulation, and deliver measurable environmental and social impact through stronger, more resource-efficient value chains. Teams will be evaluated based on commercial viability, market scalability, workforce and social impact, and circularity and environmental impact. 

Teams from a variety of businesses are encouraged to apply and teams will be required to submit category-specific metrics from industries such as the following: 

• Agriculture & Food Systems
• Plastics & Packaging
• Electronics
• Textiles
• Construction & The Built Environment

Eligibility Requirements

The program is seeking companies that meet the following eligibility requirements: 

1. Over 2 years of continuous operation 
2. Over $500k in revenue and raised capital 
3. Institutional, corporate, and/or public‑sector partnerships 
4. Solution currently deployed on the African continent 
5. Clear evidence of social impact and job creation 
6. Demonstrated operational readiness to deploy $1M+ in funding 

Award Rounds

Application Submission & Semifinalist Announcement

• Teams submit their designs and business models.
• 10 semifinalists are selected.
• Each semifinalist receives US$50,000.

Pitch Event & Finalist Announcement

• Semifinalists pitch to industry leaders and judges.
• 5 finalists are selected.
• Each finalist receives US$50,000.

Grand Prize Submission & Announcement

• Finalists submit their final materials.
• Grand Prize: US$1,000,000
• Runner-up: US$250,000

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy