About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy 2026, a global competition seeking scalable, technology-driven businesses that are advancing circular economy solutions across Africa. The prize supports companies developing innovative solutions that reduce waste, keep materials in use for longer, and create measurable environmental, social, and economic impact.
A total of $2 million in prizes will be awarded, including a $1 million Grand Prize.
Eligibility
Applicants must: Have operated continuously for at least two years Have generated more than $500,000 in revenue and raised capital Have established institutional, corporate, or public-sector partnerships Be currently deploying their solution in Africa Demonstrate measurable social impact and job creation Show operational readiness to effectively deploy $1 million or more in funding Prize Structure Application & Semifinal Round Ten semifinalists will be selected. Each semifinalist will receive $50,000 .
Pitch Round Semifinalists will pitch their solutions to industry leaders and judges. Five finalists will be selected.
Each finalist will receive an additional $50,000 . Final Round Grand Prize: $1,000,000 Runner-up Prize: $250,000 Prize Categories Applications are welcome from businesses operating in sectors such as: Agriculture and Food Systems Plastics and Packaging Electronics Textiles Construction and the Built Environment Benefits Selected participants will receive: Access to a share of $2 million in prize funding Networking opportunities with investors, industry leaders, and decision-makers Exposure to global partners and the innovation ecosystem Opportunities to showcase scalable circular economy solutions across Africa The competition is looking for businesses with commercially viable, technology-enabled solutions capable of transforming value chains while promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.
Apply Here: https://milkenmotsepeprize. org/circular-economy/
Who can apply
- Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Have operated continuously for at least two years Have generated more than $500,000 in revenue and raised capital Have established institutional, corporate, or public-sector partnerships Be currently deploying the
Sources and verification
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