The 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is a groundbreaking opportunity for scalable companies in Africa to enhance circular economy practices and compete for a share of $2 million in total prizes. With an application deadline of August 13, 2026, interested companies should start preparing their submissions to take advantage of this chance to revolutionize their industries. By participating in this prize, companies can demonstrate their commitment to reducing waste, keeping materials in circulation, and delivering measurable environmental and social impact.
About the Opportunity
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is an initiative that aims to promote circular economy practices in Africa by leveraging technology and innovation. The prize is sponsored by the Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation, two organizations that are dedicated to promoting economic development and social progress in Africa. The purpose of the prize is to identify and support scalable companies that are using technology to enhance circular economy practices across various industries, including agriculture, plastics and packaging, electronics, textiles, and construction.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy matters for Africans because it has the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the environment. By promoting circular economy practices, the prize can help to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, the prize can help to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa, which are critical for the continent’s economic development. The prize also aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production.
The Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is also an opportunity for companies to gain recognition and credibility for their efforts to promote circular economy practices. The prize can help to raise awareness about the importance of circular economy and the role that companies can play in promoting sustainable development. By participating in the prize, companies can demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, which can enhance their reputation and competitiveness in the market.
Who Can Apply
The 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is open to scalable companies that are using technology to enhance circular economy practices in Africa.
- Companies must have been in operation for over 2 years to be eligible for the prize. This means that they must have a proven track record of delivering circular economy solutions and have demonstrated their ability to scale up their operations.
- Companies must have over $500k in revenue and raised capital. This indicates that they have a solid financial foundation and are able to invest in their operations and growth.
- Companies must have institutional, corporate, and/or public-sector partnerships. This suggests that they have established relationships with key stakeholders and are able to collaborate with others to achieve their goals.
What You Will Gain
By participating in the 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy, companies can gain a range of benefits that can help them to grow and succeed.
- A share of $2 million in total prizes, including a $1 million Grand Prize. This can provide a significant boost to their finances and help them to invest in their operations and growth.
- Access to exclusive networking opportunities. This can help companies to establish relationships with key stakeholders, including investors, customers, and partners.
- The opportunity to pitch to industry leaders and key decision-makers. This can help companies to raise their profile and credibility, and to attract investment and support.
- Recognition and credibility for their efforts to promote circular economy practices. This can enhance their reputation and competitiveness in the market, and help them to attract customers and talent.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity. Deadline: August 13, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit a strong proposal.
How to Apply for 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy ($2 million in total prizes)
To apply for the 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy, companies should start by reviewing the eligibility criteria and ensuring that they meet the requirements. They should then prepare a strong proposal that demonstrates their commitment to circular economy practices and their ability to scale up their operations. The proposal should include a clear description of their business model, their technology and innovation, and their impact on the environment and society.
Companies should also prepare a detailed financial plan, including a budget and a funding request. They should also provide information about their team, including their experience and expertise. Finally, companies should submit their proposals through the official website, where they will be reviewed by a panel of judges.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Milken-Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy is a unique opportunity for scalable companies in Africa to promote circular economy practices and compete for a share of $2 million in total prizes. We encourage all eligible companies to apply and take advantage of this chance to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the environment. Do not miss this opportunity – start your application today and take the first step towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
