Call for Applications: Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing – $2 Million in Prizes for African Innovation

Introduction

The Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing is now open for functions, calling on African-based corporations which can be utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and different superior applied sciences to revolutionize manufacturing worth chains in rising markets. With a complete prize pool of $2 million, together with a $1 million Grand Prize, this international competitors presents a singular alternative to scale innovation, achieve visibility, and join with business leaders.

Launched by the Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation, the prize goals to determine and assist breakthrough options that drive job creation, increase manufacturing effectivity, and scale back waste—all whereas enhancing financial progress on the continent.

What the Prize Offers

Participants in the Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing may have the possibility to:

• Win a $1 million Grand Prize

• Receive extra awards together with:

  • $250,000 Runner-Up Prize

  • $100,000 for Most Advanced Use of 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution)

  • $50,000 for every Semi-Finalist (10 whole)

  • $30,000 for every Finalist (5 whole)

• Gain unique entry to networking alternatives

• Pitch to business leaders, traders, and international decision-makers

Who Should Apply

This competitors targets established African corporations which can be leveraging AI to create scalable influence in the manufacturing sector.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must have 2+ years of operational historical past

• At Series A stage or past in phrases of funding

• Actively working in Africa’s manufacturing sector

• Demonstrating options that:

  • Reduce waste and inefficiencies in manufacturing

  • Drive workforce and job progress

  • Deliver measurable, scalable business and social influence

If your organization is utilising superior information analytics, AI fashions, sensible automation, or different 4IR applied sciences, that is your alternative to showcase your innovation on a worldwide stage.

How to Win: Award Rounds and Process

The Milken-Motsepe Prize follows a aggressive, multi-stage course of designed to determine essentially the most impactful options:

1. Application & Semi-Finalist Selection

• Teams submit their enterprise fashions and know-how descriptions

• 10 groups might be chosen as Semi-Finalists, every awarded $50,000

2. Pitch Event & Finalist Selection

• Semi-finalists will pitch reside to a panel of business judges

• 5 Finalists might be chosen and awarded an extra $30,000 every

3. Grand Prize Submission

Timeline:

• Applications Open Now – APPLY HERE

• Semi-Finalists Announced – Date TBA

• Pitch Events – Date TBA

• Grand Prize Awarded in May 2026

Why This Prize Matters

• Africa is projected to have a inhabitants of 2 billion by 2050

• Every manufacturing job has a 10–20x multiplier impact on native economies

• Industry 4.0 improvements might result in $1.5 trillion in financial progress—roughly 10% of the worldwide AI market

This prize represents not simply funding, however a platform for influence, scaling African innovation, and supporting long-term financial transformation throughout the continent.

Conclusion

If your organization is utilizing AI to rework manufacturing and enhance outcomes in Africa, don’t miss this opportunity to achieve international recognition, safe funding, and drive actual influence. The Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing is greater than a contest—it’s a springboard for visionary corporations prepared to steer Africa’s digital industrial revolution.

Application Deadline: Rolling – Apply early for consideration

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