Cameroon Startup Wins $1M Prize for AI Waste Innovation

BleagLee, a startup from Cameroon, took home the $1 million grand prize at the 2026 Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize for using AI to transform waste into treasure. The company converts plastic, e-waste, and agricultural scraps into high-value materials like 3D printing filaments and bio-carbon.

This marks the first time the prestigious prize focused on AI in manufacturing, a sector that could reshape Africa's economic future. With the continent needing roughly 18 million new jobs annually through 2035, manufacturing paired with smart technology offers a path to lasting prosperity.

BleagLee competed against innovators from five countries, all solving real problems with working technology. Freshpack Technologies uses AI-powered cold storage to reduce food waste in rural markets. Spiro makes electric vehicles affordable and accessible. Digitech Oasis automates warehouse operations with robotics.

The prize program has engaged more than 13,000 innovators from 136 countries since launching in 2021. Winners receive more than just funding—they gain mentorship, investor access, and connections to industry leaders who can help scale their solutions.

Terry Mulligan, who directs the program at the Milken Institute, explains that geography shouldn't determine who gets opportunities. The prize evaluates entrepreneurs purely on their solution's strength, proven impact, and potential to grow.

The Ripple Effect

What makes this year's winners special is that none are experimenting with hypothetical ideas. These companies are already deploying AI at scale, tackling manufacturing and supply chain challenges across the continent today.

BleagLee's approach demonstrates how Africa can skip outdated industrial models entirely. By combining waste management with advanced materials production, the company creates jobs while addressing environmental challenges.

The prize has previously focused on AgriTech, FinTech, and green energy, always targeting sectors critical to Africa's development. Manufacturing represents the hardest test yet, requiring more capital, specialized skills, and infrastructure than pure software solutions.

The program deliberately removes barriers that typically block talented entrepreneurs in emerging markets. No restrictions on age, background, or prior achievements mean opportunity reaches innovators wherever they are.

Other finalists like Toto Safi are proving impact extends beyond typical tech metrics. Their circular textile platform empowers women-led cooperatives to produce reusable hygiene products, combining economic opportunity with social change.

Africa's manufacturing future looks different from the industrial revolutions of the past. With AI and sustainable practices built in from the start, companies like BleagLee are writing a new playbook for inclusive growth that captures value locally while solving global challenges.