PhD Studentship: Informal Entrepreneurship and Capability Expansion: Establishing Pathways Beyond Income in Developing Countries

Project details

Bridging entrepreneurship and development: Understanding how informal ventures alleviate multidimensional poverty

Over 90% of entrepreneurial activity in developing economies is informal, providing essential services where formal institutions often fall short; affordable food, transport, healthcare, and education. Yet we lack adequate understanding of how these ventures affect poverty beyond income generation.

This PhD research bridges entrepreneurship and development studies by examining how informal entrepreneurship expands capabilities across health, education, and living standards in developing countries. Using qualitative research combining in-depth case studies with context analysis, the study will document specific mechanisms through which informal ventures address multidimensional deprivations.

The research produces three critical outputs: a theoretical framework integrating capability perspectives with informal entrepreneurship research; empirical evidence of pathways to impact in resource-constrained contexts; and practical typology framework for development agencies. These tools respond directly to calls from organisations like UNDP and the World Bank for improved approaches to assess entrepreneurship interventions beyond income metrics.

Supervisors 

Primary supervisor: Dr Sue Park

Secondary supervisor: Dr Michelle Richey

Entry requirements 

At least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) with a UK master's degree (with an average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding 

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.

This project is advertised as a fully funded studentship, subject to final approval by the University.

How to apply 

Put together your research proposal (between 2500 to 3000 words including references). Share your research proposal with the identified supervisor(s) and confirm they are willing to be named in support of your application. You are also encouraged to ask for feedback to develop your research proposal.

All applications should be made online via the above 'Apply' button. Under programme name, select ‘Business School'. Please upload with your application a research proposal, copies of your transcripts/certificates, English language certificate and contact details of two academic references, one of which must be from your most recent degree. Please quote the project reference number LB26-SP/MR.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them take a decision on your application.

Please ensure the correct programme name is used, this should be the same as it appears in the application portal, to ensure applications reach the correct school/department.

Contact details 

Call: +44 (0)1509 227391 

Email: s.park@lboro.ac.uk

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