The Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation have chosen ten companies to advance to the semi-final stage of the Milken-Motsepe Prize for artificial intelligence (AI) and manufacturing.
Each team will get $50,000 in unrestricted funds to promote inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Africa.
One of the ten teams will be awarded a $1 million grand prize during the institute's Global Conference in Los Angeles in 2026.
According to the organisers, the Milken-Motsepe AI and Manufacturing Prize recognises companies who are using AI and other technologies to revolutionise next-generation manufacturing solutions.
They were looking for experience, scalable manufacturing companies with over two years of experience in Africa, proven Series A+ traction, and a commitment to job creation and workforce development.
The semi-finalists will take part in an Innovation Showcase at the Milken Institute's Middle East and Africa Summit on December 4-5, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
During the summit, the 10 semi-finalist teams will pitch their ideas to a panel of expert judges and investors, with five finalists to be selected to advance to the final stage in the US.
The judges will evaluate pitches based on commercial viability, operational economics, technological integration, and market scalability in Africa.
In total, the grand prize will be valued at $2 million, including a $1 million grand prize, alongside a $250,000 runner-up prize and a $100,000 award for the Most Advanced Use of Fourth Industrial Revolution Technologies.
“By focusing on AI and manufacturing, this award identifies and supports visionary teams transforming industry with advanced technologies, which has a multiplying effect by creating economic opportunity for communities across Africa,” said Emily Musil, managing director at the Milken Institute. “From the semi-finalist stage to beyond the prize, we are excited to provide a global platform and network for future-forward entrepreneurs and social impact companies.”
The teams operate in more than 60 countries on five continents, with innovations that hold the potential to revolutionise manufacturing value chains, drive job creation, and ignite breakthroughs across the globe.
The 10 semi-finalists are:
• BleagLee, Cameroon
• DataProphet, South Africa
• Freshpack Technologies, Tanzania
• GreenBDG Africa, South Africa
• INDOS, Egypt
• Toto Safi Limited, Rwanda
• Digitech Oasis Limited, United Kingdom
• Spiro, United Arab Emirates
• Thola Inc, United States
• Torchit, India
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