The Milken-Motsepe Prize in AgriTech

The inaugural Milken-Motsepe Prize focuses on accelerating progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 2: no poverty and zero hunger.

A collaboration between the Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation, the Milken-Motsepe Prize in AgriTech is a global competition for innovative solutions to increase economic value to farmers, from seed to sale. 

Registration is free and open to anyone, with a USD 1 million grand prize available for the winning team, and USD 1 million in additional prizes.

Why Agritech?

• 60%: Sixty percent of the African population is employed in agriculture, with more than 80% of all output produced by small-scale farms.
• 50%: Agricultural productivity growth in Africa is about half that seen in other developing economies.
• 40%: Up to 40% of food produced by smallholder farmers in Africa is lost between harvest and consumption.

How to Win

Registration for the AgriTech Prize is free and open to anyone, anywhere.

• Design round: Teams submit their design and business model. An independent panel of expert judges will select up to 25 teams to receive USD 10.000 each and advance in the competition.
• Finalist round: Teams develop their prototypes and conduct field tests on small and medium-sized farms in Africa.
• Awards: Winning teams will increase net economic value to small and medium-sized farms by:
  • Developing innovative technology solutions for any stage of the food system, from seed to sale
  • Designing a viable business model
  • Increasing farm productivity and/or decreasing post-harvest loss.

Prize Benefits

Many entrepreneurs lack the information and tools they need to bring their invention to life. In addition to the chance to win cash prizes, the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize program provides a rich set of opportunities for entrepreneurs.

1. Online Community: Simply complete the free prize registration process and you will join an online community of other entrepreneurs. The prize portal will give you access to:
   • Team matchmaking
   • Resources for entrepreneurs
   • Online training & help-desk
2. Certificate Program: Teams will receive a 12-week experiential learning program powered by the Stanford Center for Professional Development Idea to Market curriculum. Upon completion of the program, teams will receive a Certificate of Completion:
   • Stanford center for professional development certificate of completion
   • Mentoring from industry experts
   • Pitch & feedback sessions
3. Alumni Network: Winning teams will join the Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize program alumni network following prize completion, with access to:
   • Investors
   • Data analysis
   • Networking opportunities