funding: $2 million total prizes — $1 million grand prize, $250,000 runner-up
location: Africa (solution must be deployed on the continent)
host: Milken Institute and Motsepe Foundation
source-url: https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/07/10/milken-motsepe-prize-in-circular-economy-2026/
apply-url: https://milkenmotsepeprize.org/circular-economy/
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is a $2 million prize that calls on scalable companies to enhance circular economy practices across various industries in Africa, with a grand prize of $1 million. The prize is hosted by the Milken Institute and Motsepe Foundation, and the deadline for application is August 13, 2026. Over 2 years of continuous operation is required for eligibility.
Overview
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy aims to support companies using technology to enhance circular economy practices in Africa. The prize is open to teams from various business verticals, including food systems, packaging, electronics, fashion and textiles, construction, and the built environment.
- Circular economy practices across various industries
- Technology-enhanced solutions
- Deployment on the African continent
- Vertical-specific impact metrics required
Eligibility
Eligible companies must have over two years of continuous operation, generate over $500,000 in revenue, and have raised capital. They must also have institutional, corporate, and/or public-sector partnerships, a solution deployed on the African continent, and demonstrate social impact, job creation, and operational readiness to deploy more than $1 million in funding.
- Over 2 years of continuous operation
- Over $500,000 in revenue
- Raised capital
- Institutional, corporate, and/or public-sector partnerships
- Solution deployed on the African continent
- Clear evidence of social impact and job creation
- Operational readiness to deploy more than $1 million in funding
Funding & Benefits
- $1 million grand prize
- $250,000 runner-up prize
- Exclusive networking opportunities
- Opportunity to pitch to industry leaders and key decision-makers
How to Apply
Registration for the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is open now through August 13, 2026, at 2 p.m. Companies can submit their applications online.
- Register online
- Submit vertical-specific impact metrics
- Provide evidence of social impact and job creation
- Demonstrate operational readiness to deploy more than $1 million in funding
Why This Matters
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is a significant opportunity for companies to enhance circular economy practices in Africa. With a total of $2 million in prizes, the competition is expected to be fierce. However, the prize also offers a unique chance for companies to gain access to exclusive networking opportunities and pitch to industry leaders, which can be a valuable experience regardless of the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for application?
The deadline for application is August 13, 2026, at 2 p.m.
What are the eligibility criteria for the prize?
Eligible companies must have over two years of continuous operation, generate over $500,000 in revenue, and have raised capital.
What are the benefits of participating in the prize?
Participating companies gain access to exclusive networking opportunities and can pitch to industry leaders and key decision-makers.
How are teams evaluated?
Teams are evaluated on commercial viability, market scalability, workforce and social impact, and circularity and environmental impact.
What is the total amount of prizes offered?
The total amount of prizes offered is $2 million, including a $1 million grand prize and $250,000 for the runner-up.
Do I need to have a solution deployed on the African continent to be eligible?
Yes, eligible companies must have a solution currently deployed on the African continent.