Doctoral Sales Grant Program

The Direct Selling Education Foundation (DSEF) offers grants to PhD students pursuing research on direct selling topics relevant to DSEF and Direct Selling Association (DSA) member companies.

Eligibility:

• PhD students at AACSB-accredited doctoral granting institutions
• Students pursuing research on topics relevant to direct selling channel and DSA member companies
• Focus on building next generation of sales-focused faculty and scholars

Award Details:

• Amount: $4,000 per year
• Duration: Distributed over a four-year period
• Purpose: To develop and execute research projects focusing on direct selling topics

Program History:

• 2019 Recipients: Carissa Harris (University of Nebraska-Lincoln), Jen Riley (Kennesaw State University)
• 2020 Recipients: Molly Ahearne (University of Georgia), Scott Hachey (University of Hawai'i at Mānoa)
• 2021 Recipient: Allison Crick (University of South Florida)

Administration:

• Administered by Dr. Fernando Jaramillo (University of Texas at Arlington) and Dr. Greg W. Marshall (Rollins College)
• DSEF Senior Director of Academic Initiatives and DSEF Executive Director oversee the program

Geographic Scope: United States

Application Process

Application Details:

• Submit research proposals relevant to direct selling channel
• Proposals should address topics of relevance to DSEF and DSA member companies
• Selected through competitive pool of applicants

Required Materials:

• Research proposal on direct selling topic
• Confirmation of PhD student status at AACSB-accredited institution
• Academic advisor/supervisor information

Selection Criteria:

• Quality and relevance of research proposal
• Potential impact on direct selling practices
• Alignment with DSEF and DSA member company interests