Overview
The Endangered Material Knowledge Programme (EMKP) has opened the 2025/2026 Call for Applications for its Legacy Digitisation Grant. This grant supports the preservation of documentation that captures material knowledge which is currently endangered or was already at risk at the time the original research was carried out. The call is open from 22 October 2025 until 12:00 GMT on 19 January 2026, and prospective applicants are encouraged to submit proposals early to ensure timely review and administrative processing.
The Legacy Digitisation Grant, administered by EMKP and housed at the British Museum, plays an essential role in safeguarding irreplaceable cultural documentation. It enables researchers, communities, and institutions to digitise historical records and collections, ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility for future generations.
Purpose and Scope of the Grant
The grant specifically targets the digitisation of “legacy” material, defined as documentation and research records produced during projects that have already concluded. These materials often remain inaccessible or at risk due to physical degradation, outdated storage formats, or lack of digital infrastructure. Eligible materials include, but are not limited to:
- Fieldnotes and handwritten records
- Photographs, slides, and negatives
- Film reels and video recordings
- Audio recordings
- Sketches, diagrams, and project-related documents
- Objects or artefacts accompanied by historic documentation
The programme emphasises digitisation work that strengthens global understanding of material knowledge systems, particularly those linked to cultural practices, craft technologies, and community-based expertise that may no longer be widely practised.
Award Structure and Funding Parameters
Legacy Digitisation Grants support projects lasting up to one year, with a maximum award of £20,000. Funds may be used for digitisation equipment, specialist services, staff time, training, metadata creation, and other activities directly related to the digitisation and preservation process. Proposals must align with EMKP standards for digital preservation, ethical practice, and data management.
Projects must begin only after all administrative and contractual documents have been finalised between the applicant, the host institution, and EMKP. Required documentation includes:
- Terms and Conditions
- Detailed Budget
- Digital Management Plan
- Ethical Review documentation
These documents form the basis of the Grant Agreement and must be completed before project commencement.
Eligibility and Applicant Categories
The EMKP Legacy Digitisation Grant is open to applicants regardless of nationality, reflecting the programme’s commitment to global inclusivity and the preservation of diverse cultural knowledge systems. Applicants may include:
- Individuals affiliated with recognised host institutions
- Community-based organisations
- Museums, archives, libraries, cultural centres, or other institutions
- The original creators of the legacy documentation
Applicants should carefully consult the EMKP 2025–2026 Legacy Digitisation Grant application form for reference purposes, while noting that future iterations may differ. The official Application Guidelines provide essential information on eligibility, budget requirements, ethical considerations, and submission procedures.
Grant Agreement Requirements
Successful applicants must ensure that the Grant Agreement between EMKP and the host institution is signed within six months of the award notification. While the call references November 2024 in existing documentation, the six-month requirement applies to the timeline that follows notification of successful applications for the 2025/2026 cycle. Given that institutional approval processes can be lengthy, applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with their host institutions early and ensure full familiarity with EMKP’s non-negotiable grant terms.
Failure to secure a signed agreement within the required timeframe may result in withdrawal of funding. Applicants are therefore advised to initiate administrative procedures immediately upon receiving preliminary award notification.
Application Process and Essential Documentation
To apply, candidates must submit their proposals through the EMKP application platform using the official online portal. A complete application typically includes:
- Project summary and objectives
- Description of legacy materials and their cultural significance
- Proposed methodologies for digitisation
- Technical and ethical considerations
- Data management and preservation plan
- Budget and justification
- Host institution support documentation
Applicants should ensure that all components are complete, clearly presented, and consistent with EMKP’s guidelines for ethical data stewardship and community engagement.
Institutional Expectations and Ethical Standards
EMKP places strong emphasis on ethical research practices, accessibility, and the responsible digitisation of cultural heritage materials. Applicants must demonstrate sensitivity to community rights, intellectual property, and data ownership considerations. The ethical review process ensures that digitisation work respects the cultural contexts from which the materials originate and supports ongoing community access and agency.
Host institutions play a central role in guaranteeing secure digital storage, adherence to metadata standards, and commitment to long-term preservation. Early communication with institutional partners is essential for successful project implementation.
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