Calling all university students and alumni, aged 18 – 35 interested in innovation around waste management. Find out more about the Waste Innovation Challenge, the application process, criteria and what to expect throughout the programme.
Introducing the Waste Innovation Challenge 2026!
Are you ready to turn plastic waste into purpose? Mr Price Foundation x EDHE Waste Innovation Challenge is now open for Expressions of Interest to university students, alumni and researchers between the age of 18 – 34 years, with South African identity number! We’re calling on South Africa’s most creative student innovators and recent graduates to design bold, sustainable business ideas that tackle our plastic waste crisis. With R245 000.00 in prize money, national exposure, and expert training and mentorship on offer, this is your chance to build a green business with real impact. Submit your Expression of Interest from 1 December 2025 and lead the change toward a cleaner, more circular economy. Join us on the 27th of January for an official information session to learn more about the programme and competition criteria. The top 20 innovations will be invited to attend an exclusive bootcamp and get an opportunity to pitch their innovations in a final showcase in front of a panel of judges and experts.
Spread the word — even during holidays!
As universities prepare to close for the summer, don’t miss this opportunity to inspire your students to act now. With EOIs open from 1 December, this challenge is an ideal end-of-year call to action for budding innovators and entrepreneurs.
