The 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.

Eligibility Requirements

We are 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