GreenMatter Fellowship Bursary 2026 — The GreenMatter Fellowship is about developing critical skills and leadership for transformation towards a sustainable South Africa. With generous support from The Lewis Foundation and Nedbank Eyethu Community Trust, GreenMatter will be awarding 50 Fellowships open to postgraduate students and early-career professionals in environmental sustainability fields.
About GreenMatter Foundation
The GreenMatter Fellowship addresses South Africa’s critical need for skilled environmental professionals who can drive sustainable development. Financial support alone is insufficient—students need holistic support programmes that provide guidance, mentoring, networking, and leadership development to transition successfully into professional spaces.
This programme recognises that access to finance is a key challenge for students seeking to further their education, particularly after completing a first degree. The fellowship combines financial support with comprehensive development opportunities to create transformative leaders in environmental sustainability.
The fellowship aims to develop leaders who can drive South Africa’s transition towards environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
Tier 1 Fellowship
- For: Postgraduate students (M.Sc & PhD)
- Duration: 2 years (Master’s) / 3 years (PhD)
- Support: Full-cost bursary + leadership training
- Covers: Tuition & living expenses
- Includes: Advanced leadership & technical training
- Expectation: Create knowledge products & impact initiatives
Available Awards: 8 fellowships (4 Master’s & 4 PhD)
Tier 2 Fellowship
- For: Postgraduate students OR early-career professionals
- Age Limit: Youth up to 35 years
- Duration: 12 months development programme
- Requirement: Must have existing bursary OR be employed
- Support: Leadership & professional development only
- Includes: Mentorship, coaching, impact projects
Available Awards: 30 fellowships
Eligibility Criteria
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- Age limit: Up to 35 years for Tier 2 applicants
- For Tier 1: Registered or accepted for Master’s/PhD studies
- For Tier 2: Currently studying with bursary OR employed as early-career professional
- Fields related to environmental sustainability, biodiversity, climate change
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to sustainability
- Strong academic record and research potential
Priority given to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds and those contributing to transformation in environmental sectors.
Fields of Study & Focus Areas
- Environmental Science and Management
- Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
- Climate Change and Sustainability Studies
- Renewable Energy and Green Technology
- Water Resource Management
- Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
- Environmental Policy and Governance
- Green Economy and Sustainable Development
- Urban Ecology and Planning
- Marine and Coastal Management
Applicants should demonstrate how their studies/work contribute to South Africa’s environmental sustainability goals.
How to Apply
Online Application: Complete the SurveyMonkey application form with all required information and documents.
Download Application
Offline Option: Download the Word document, complete it, and submit as instructed in the form.
Application Requirements for GreenMatter Fellowship bursary 2026
- Completed application form (online or downloaded)
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae
- Certified academic transcripts
- Proof of registration/acceptance for postgraduate studies
- Two reference letters (academic/professional)
- Motivation letter (explaining sustainability commitment)
- Research proposal outline (for Tier 1 applicants)
- Proof of existing bursary/employment (for Tier 2 applicants)
- Certified ID copy
All documents should be submitted as per application instructions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Important Dates
| Application Opens | Immediately |
| Closing Date | 09 January 2026 |
| Late Applications | Not Accepted |
| Outcome Notification | 22 January 2026 |
| Programme Commencement | February 2026 |
⚠️ Critical: Late or incomplete applications will NOT be considered. Submit well before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the GreenMatter Fellowship?
A leadership development programme for environmental sustainability, offering 50 fellowships across two tiers for postgraduate students and early-career professionals.
2. How many fellowships are available?
50 total: 8 Tier 1 fellowships (4 Master’s, 4 PhD) and 30 Tier 2 fellowships (development programme only).
3. What does Tier 1 cover?
Full-cost bursary (tuition + living expenses) for 2-3 years plus comprehensive leadership and professional development training.
4. Who can apply for Tier 2?
Postgraduate students with existing bursaries OR employed early-career professionals up to age 35, seeking leadership development.
5. What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by 09 January 2026. No extensions granted.
6. When will I know if I’m successful?
Outcomes will be announced on 22 January 2026.
7. Can I apply for both tiers?
No, applicants should choose the tier that best matches their current status and needs.
8. What fields are supported?
Environmental sustainability, biodiversity, climate change, renewable energy, water management, sustainable agriculture, and related fields.
9. Is there an age limit?
Tier 2 has an age limit of 35 years. Tier 1 applicants should check specific programme requirements.
10. How do I apply?
Apply online via SurveyMonkey or download the application form. For more environmental and sustainability bursaries, explore our bursaries database or check other fellowship opportunities.
For more postgraduate fellowships and 2026 funding opportunities, visit EduFunds.co.za
GreenMatter Foundation – Building Leaders for a Sustainable South Africa