Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing (Up to $1 million Cash Prize)

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About Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing

Revolutionizing manufacturing value chains

This prize will award innovators that demonstrate scalability, improve efficiency, and reduce waste in the manufacturing supply chain in Africa technologies such as advanced data analytics, and artificial intelligence, specifically in emerging and frontier markets.

This prize calls on established companies in Africa revolutionizing manufacturing value chains in emerging markets by leveraging AI and other emerging technologies. 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. 

If your company is using AI and advanced data analytics to boost efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver scalable impact – this is your moment. They're looking for tech-powered solutions ready to drive job creation, unlock commercial growth, and ignite breakthroughs across the globe.  

The winning team will demonstrate a scalable innovation across manufacturing value chains that leverages AI to deliver measurable impact in efficiency and waste loss. Teams will be evaluated on commercial viability, technological integration, operational economics, and market scalability in Africa.  

The Grand Prize winner will be awarded and celebrated in May 2026. 

• Sponsor Organisation: Milken Institute

Benefits of Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing

• Application Submission & Semi-Finalist Announcement: Teams submit their designs and business models. An independent panel of expert judges will select 10 teams to advance in the competition as semi-finalists. Each semi-finalist team will then receive $50,000.
• Pitch Event & Finalist Announcement: Semi-Finalists will pitch their innovations to industry leaders and decision-makers. A panel of judges will select five teams to advance as Finalists and receive $30,000 each.
• Grand Prize Submission & Announcement: Finalist companies will submit materials for the grand prize submission (as outlined in the rules). The winning team will receive $1 million, the runner-up will receive a $250,000 Runner-Up prize, and a team will receive $100,000 for the Most Advanced Use of 4IR.

Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing Requirements

They are seeking companies:  

• 2+ years in operation 
• Series A+ in funding  
• Operating in Africa’s manufacturing sector 
• Advancing workforce and job growth 

Application Date and Process

Apply Here

Application Deadline

31 July, 2025

Scholarship Application Portal

View details of Milken-Motsepe Prize in AI and Manufacturing

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