Innovators developing practical solutions to reduce waste and unlock value from discarded materials now have a chance to compete for a share of a US$2 million prize fund.
- Innovators developing practical solutions to reduce waste and unlock value from discarded materials now have a chance to compete for...
- Applications are open for the Milken Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy, an international competition seeking entrepreneurs and organisations that can...
- Organisers are particularly interested in solutions that can reduce environmental pressures while generating economic value for communities and businesses.
- Participants selected for the programme will gain access to mentorship, technical support and networking opportunities that can help strengthen their...
Keep reading for the full breakdown on Startups — everything you need to know is covered below.
Applications are open for the Milken Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy, an international competition seeking entrepreneurs and organisations that can transform waste into sustainable economic opportunities.
The prize, launched by the Milken Institute in partnership with the Motsepe Foundation, aims to support bold ideas that promote resource efficiency, create jobs and contribute to environmental sustainability. Organisers are inviting participants from around the world to present solutions that can advance circular economy practices at scale.
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Driving Innovation Through the Circular Economy
The competition focuses on innovations that extend the life cycle of materials and products by encouraging reuse, recycling and resource recovery. Organisers are particularly interested in solutions that can reduce environmental pressures while generating economic value for communities and businesses.
According to the Milken Institute, the circular economy offers an alternative to traditional production and consumption models that often generate large volumes of waste. By keeping materials in use for longer periods, innovators can help reduce resource depletion and support more sustainable patterns of growth.
The challenge seeks participants whose ideas can demonstrate measurable impact, commercial viability and the potential for broad adoption. Eligible applicants include startups, researchers, entrepreneurs and organisations working on technologies, business models or systems that address waste management and resource efficiency.
Multi-Million Dollar Prize Fund Available
A total prize purse of US$2 million will be awarded across different stages of the competition. Participants selected for the programme will gain access to mentorship, technical support and networking opportunities that can help strengthen their solutions and expand their reach.
Beyond financial rewards, entrants will have the opportunity to connect with industry experts, investors and development leaders who are actively supporting innovation in sustainability and economic development. Such exposure can provide valuable pathways for growth and collaboration.
The competition forms part of the broader Milken Motsepe Innovation Prize Programme, which supports entrepreneurial solutions that address global challenges through technology, innovation and enterprise.
Global Opportunity for Entrepreneurs and Innovators
The organisers are encouraging applications from innovators across diverse sectors, including waste management, manufacturing, recycling, materials science and environmental technology. Solutions may range from new recycling methods and product recovery systems to innovative business models that promote resource efficiency.
As governments and businesses increasingly focus on reducing waste and improving sustainability, interest in circular economy solutions continues to grow. Entrepreneurs capable of turning environmental challenges into economic opportunities are attracting attention from investors and policymakers alike.
Applications for the Milken Motsepe Prize in Circular Economy are now open through the official competition platform. For innovators seeking funding, visibility and access to global networks, the programme offers an opportunity to showcase solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.
By encouraging practical innovation and entrepreneurship, the initiative aims to help accelerate the transition towards economic models that maximise value while reducing waste and environmental impact.