German Academic Exchange Service GROW Scholarship Programme 2026: Global Research Opportunities for the South
Apply for the DAAD GROW Scholarship Programme 2026. Researchers from the Global South can access funding, collaboration opportunities in Germany, and support for development-focused research aligned with SDGs.
DAAD GROW Scholarship Programme 2026: Global Research Opportunities for the South
The German Academic Exchange Service has opened applications for the Global Research Opportunities for the South (GROW) Scholarship Programme 2026. This initiative aims to strengthen research capacity and foster international collaboration among scholars from developing regions, particularly those in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
In today’s interconnected research environment, collaborative partnerships are essential for tackling global challenges such as climate change, inequality, public health, and sustainable development. The GROW programme responds to this need by enabling researchers to engage with German institutions and contribute to development-oriented research projects.
A Programme with a Development Focus
The GROW programme is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and emphasizes research that contributes to sustainable development. It targets scholars from countries listed on the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list, with a strong focus on participants from the Global South.
The objective of the programme extends beyond academic advancement. Participants are expected to return to their home institutions with enhanced expertise, strengthened professional networks, and the ability to apply research outcomes to local development challenges. This approach ensures that knowledge gained during the programme leads to meaningful societal and institutional impact.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to a wide range of academic professionals. Eligible applicants include:
- Doctoral candidates
- Postdoctoral researchers
- University lecturers and professors
- Established academics and scientists
Applicants must be affiliated with a university or research institution in their home country. Individuals already based in Germany or currently conducting full-time research there are not eligible for the programme.
The initiative also promotes inclusivity by encouraging applications from women and individuals from disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds. This commitment to diversity ensures broader participation and equitable access to research opportunities.
Two Flexible Funding Tracks
The GROW programme offers two distinct funding tracks, allowing researchers to select the option that best suits their research objectives.
1. Preparatory and Cooperation Visits (1–2 Months)
This track supports short-term visits to Germany. The purpose is to build partnerships, develop joint research ideas, and establish collaborations with German host institutions. These visits allow researchers to lay the foundation for future projects and strengthen academic networks.
2. Research Stays (2–6 Months)
The second option enables scholars to conduct independent research projects in collaboration with a German institution. Applicants must demonstrate clear development relevance and outline how research findings will be transferred back to their home country.
Both tracks emphasize collaboration, knowledge exchange, and long-term impact rather than conference participation or short-term exposure.
Alignment with Global Development Goals
A key feature of the programme is its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Applicants must ensure that their research proposals connect to at least one SDG, reinforcing the programme’s focus on socially relevant research.
Relevant thematic areas include:
- Health and education
- Climate and environmental sustainability
- Governance and social inclusion
- Innovation and development systems
This alignment ensures that funded research contributes to global development priorities while addressing local challenges.
Funding and Benefits
The GROW scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to participants. The benefits include:
- Monthly stipends ranging from €1,400 to €2,150, depending on academic level
- Travel allowance to and from Germany
- Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage
- Additional support for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses
The funding period must begin in 2026 and conclude by 31 January 2027. Extensions are not permitted, making it important for applicants to plan their research timelines carefully.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed by an independent panel of experts. The selection process focuses on several key criteria:
- Academic excellence and qualifications
- Quality and originality of the research proposal
- Feasibility of the proposed project
- Development relevance and SDG alignment
- Strength of collaboration with German host institutions
- Potential for long-term impact and knowledge transfer
Applicants are also evaluated based on their motivation, career trajectory, and potential to contribute to capacity building in their home institutions.
Why This Programme Matters
The GROW programme represents a shift in global research funding towards collaborative and impact-driven initiatives. Rather than supporting isolated academic projects, the programme encourages partnerships that address real-world challenges.
For researchers in the Global South, the scholarship offers access to advanced research environments, international networks, and opportunities to amplify their work globally. Participants also gain exposure to new methodologies and technologies that can be transferred back to their home institutions.
Furthermore, the programme promotes sustainable knowledge exchange. By requiring applicants to demonstrate development relevance and knowledge transfer, it ensures that research outcomes contribute to long-term progress.
Key Programme Highlights
- Programme: Global Research Opportunities for the South (GROW)
- Offered by: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- Funding Body: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development
- Eligible Applicants: Researchers from Global South institutions
- Funding Duration: 1–6 months depending on track
- Funding Period: Must begin in 2026 and end by 31 January 2027
- Focus Areas: Development-oriented research aligned with SDGs
Researchers interested in international collaboration and development-focused research are encouraged to apply for the GROW Scholarship Programme 2026. This initiative provides a valuable platform for scholars to strengthen their expertise, expand networks, and contribute to sustainable development in their home regions.
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