The University of Cape Town, in collaboration with the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS), has announced an exciting opportunity for aspiring researchers. This initiative focuses on Green Financing for Agrifood SMEs in South Africa, offering a fully funded PhD position starting in February 2026.
This program is designed to empower future scholars who are passionate about sustainability, agrifood systems, and innovative financing models. With comprehensive support, international collaboration, and a strong academic foundation, the scholarship provides a pathway to impactful research and professional growth.
What the Scholarship Offers
The PhD scholarship is fully funded and includes a wide range of benefits to ensure that selected candidates can focus entirely on their research journey:
- Full Funding for 3 Years
- Covers tuition and academic fees.
- Ensures financial stability throughout the program.
- Monthly Stipend
- Aligned with National Research Foundation (NRF) benchmarks.
- Provides living support for day-to-day expenses.
- Research Support
- Funding for fieldwork, materials, and conferences.
- Enables candidates to present findings at international platforms.
- International Exposure
- A fully funded 3-month research stay in Denmark.
- Opportunity to collaborate with DIIS researchers and broaden perspectives.
- Interdisciplinary Mentorship
- Guidance from an international, interdisciplinary research team.
- Access to diverse expertise in agrifood systems, sustainability, and financing.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Agrifood SMEs play a critical role in South Africa’s economy and food systems. However, they often face challenges in accessing sustainable financing. This PhD project addresses these gaps by exploring innovative green financing models that can:
- Strengthen food security.
- Promote environmentally sustainable practices.
- Empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the agrifood sector.
- Contribute to climate resilience and economic growth.
By joining this program, candidates will not only advance their academic careers but also contribute to meaningful change in the region.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate for this PhD scholarship should demonstrate:
- Strong academic background in marketing, economics, finance, or sustainability studies.
- Interest in agrifood systems, green financing, and SME development.
- Commitment to interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
- Motivation to engage in fieldwork and international exchange.
Key Benefits for Scholars
This opportunity is more than just a PhD program, it is a career-defining experience.
- Academic Growth: Gain advanced expertise in green financing and agrifood systems.
- Professional Networking: Connect with scholars, policymakers, and industry leaders.
- International Collaboration: Experience research in both South Africa and Denmark.
- Practical Impact: Contribute solutions to real-world challenges facing SMEs.
Application Timeline
- Program Start Date: February 2026.
- Deadline: January 5, 2026
- Duration: 3 years (with full funding).
- Research Stay Abroad: 3 months in Denmark during the program.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, ensuring that their academic records, motivation letters, and research interests align with the project’s goals.
The Green Financing for Agrifood SMEs in South Africa Project represents a unique chance for aspiring PhD candidates to combine academic excellence with real-world impact. With full funding, international collaboration, and interdisciplinary mentorship, this scholarship is tailored for changemakers who want to shape the future of sustainable agrifood systems.
If you are passionate about sustainability, financing, and agrifood innovation, this is your opportunity to take the next step in your academic and professional journey. Learn more and Apply here.
