EMKP Documentation Grants

The British Museum’s Endangered Material Knowledge Programme (EMKP) has launched its 2026/2027 grant round for Documentation Grants. The programme funds the comprehensive recording of material knowledge systems that are under threat and in danger of disappearing across the globe.

Funding is awarded across two tiers: Small Grants providing up to GBP 20,000 for projects lasting up to one year, and Large Grants offering up to GBP 100,000 for initiatives spanning up to two years. Applications must be submitted by 12:00 GMT on 1 December 2026.

What is funded

Grants support the detailed documentation of endangered material knowledge systems, encompassing how communities make, use, repair, and repurpose material objects, spaces, architecture, crafts, rituals, and environments. Acceptable recording methodologies include, but are not limited to, film, audio recordings, photographs, written notes, maps, 3D models, and drawings.

Small Grants are designated for projects focusing on a specific or individual material practice of limited scope, pilot studies assessing knowledge systems, or early-career researchers launching new initiatives. Large Grants are designed for mature projects requiring larger teams, diverse documentation methodologies, concurrent work packages, or extended timelines suited to seasonal cycles.

Who can apply

Applications are accepted from individuals, researchers, higher education institutions, and museums regardless of the applicant’s nationality or academic background. Every applicant must partner with an eligible Host Institution capable of providing independent financial administration and ethical oversight for the project.

There are no geographical limitations on where project activities and fieldwork can take place. However, the donor assigns priority to projects planned in countries and regions where existing domestic or international financial support for research is limited.

Conditions and requirements

All successful grantees are required to provide digital copies of all documentation generated throughout the project. These assets will be deposited and made publicly accessible via the EMKP open-access repository, hosted by the British Museum.

Before grant activities can begin, formal agreements must be executed between the applicant, EMKP, and the Host Institution. These requirements include standard Terms and Conditions, a finalised budget, a Digital Management Plan, and an ethical review clearance.

Practical tip. Engage your prospective Host Institution early in the preparation phase to review the standard Documentation Grant agreement template. EMKP terms and conditions are strictly non-negotiable, and the full agreement must be signed within six months of receiving the award notice.

How to apply

Applicants must select the appropriate funding track, whether for Small Grants or Large Grants, and complete the official application form. The programme provides specific Application Guidelines and Digital Guidelines to assist applicants with planning technical recording and submission requirements.

All applications and supporting information must be submitted before the deadline of 12:00 GMT on 1 December 2026. Applicants should review previous reference templates carefully to understand the ethical, institutional, and technical details required by the panel.

Applications are submitted on the donor’s page: emkp.org.