The Maize Trust funds research, development and training in the South African maize industry. Where it supports student funding, it does so in fields relevant to grain production and agriculture, principally agricultural sciences, agricultural economics and related disciplines.
Industry trust funding is commonly channelled through universities and research institutions rather than awarded directly to individual applicants. That means the practical route is often through your department rather than through a public application form.
Eligibility Requirements at a Glance
Agricultural industry funding is generally assessed on the following.
- South African citizenship
- Study in a field relevant to grain production or agriculture
- Acceptance or registration at a recognised institution
- Academic results meeting the standard set
- Relevance of your studies or research to the industry the trust serves
- For postgraduate funding, a research proposal aligned with industry priorities
Income and Affordability Requirements
Industry trust funding commonly weights academic merit and research relevance more heavily than financial need, though need can form part of the assessment.
Because this scheme publishes its criteria per intake and revises them, this page does not restate specific income thresholds, closing dates or award values. Confirm those directly with the funder.
Credit and Financial Requirements
Bursaries do not assess your credit record and applying does not affect it. Continued funding depends on academic progress and, for research funding, on progress against the research plan.
Postgraduate research funding frequently carries reporting obligations, requiring you to submit progress reports and to acknowledge the funder in publications.
Documents and Verification Required
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your academic transcript
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised institution
- A research proposal, for postgraduate funding
- A letter of support from your supervisor or department
- A completed application form
How to Apply and Improve Approval Readiness
Approach your department first. Industry trust funding in agriculture is frequently administered through university departments and research programmes rather than through direct public applications.
Align your research topic with the industry stated priorities if you are applying for postgraduate funding. Relevance to the sector is the criterion these schemes weight most heavily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Maize Trust fund?
Research, development and training in the South African maize industry, including student funding in relevant agricultural fields.
How do I apply?
Often through your university department rather than by direct public application, since industry trust funding is commonly channelled through institutions.
Is it means-tested?
Industry trust funding commonly weights academic merit and research relevance more heavily than financial need.
Does it fund postgraduate research?
Industry trusts frequently prioritise postgraduate research aligned with sector priorities, with reporting obligations attached.
Confirm current funding availability and the application route with the Maize Trust and with your university department. See bursary requirements and browse all finance and funding requirements.