The application process
Archives Revealed Cataloguing Grants have a two-phase application process:
- Phase 1 – expression of interest
- Phase 2 – full application
Phase 1 – Expression of Interest
In Phase 1, applicants outline their proposed cataloguing project and how their project would contribute to the overall vision and aims of the Archives Revealed programme. The expression of interest explores the impact of cataloguing the collection, focusing on:
- Your organisation
- The collection to be catalogued
- Why the collection is significant
- The potential audiences for the collection
- Proposed approach to cataloguing and budget
On average, 30% of Phase 1 applications are invited to Phase 2, which is usually less than 20 applicants.
The panel will discuss all applications at a moderated panel assessment meeting and will invite successful applicants to submit a full application at Phase 2. Feedback will be given to unsuccessful applicants at this stage.
Phase 2 – Full Application
In Phase 2, applicants provide a more detailed outline of their proposed cataloguing project. The full application will explore and be assessed on the aims of the fund:
- Significance and use of the collection
- Diversity and inclusion
- Audiences, engagement, and improvement to access
- The impact and value of the archive and collection to be catalogued
- Approach to cataloguing and cataloguing standards
- Project management and staffing
Applications at phase 2 are checked for eligibility and are then assessed by the independent assessment panel. The panel considers all applications before selecting those that will be offered an Archives Revealed Cataloguing Grant.
On average, 50% of applicants invited to Phase 2 receive funding: usually eight or nine projects.
Archives Revealed Cataloguing Grants are highly competitive: around 70% of applicants do not pass through the Expression of Interest stage, with a further 15% being declined at Phase 2. Around 15% of applications receive funding.
Cataloguing Grants assessment panel
The assessment panel for Cataloguing Grants is an independent panel made up of ten to twelve members. Members are selected to represent a broad range of organisations, diverse backgrounds, subject specialisms, and geographical spread.
Meet the members of the 2022 Cataloguing Grants assessment panel
Read the terms of reference for the assessment panel (PDF, 0.21 MB)
Read our conflict of interest policy (PDF, 0.12 MB)
Deadlines and key dates
Round 6 is now open, the deadline for Phase 1 (Expressions of Interest) is 12.00pm on Friday 10 February 2023.
How do I apply?
Apply here for a cataloguing grant. Applicants are strongly advised to read this webpage, the ‘About the grants‘ webpage and the ‘Help with your application‘ webpage before applying.
If, after reviewing the guidance, you have any enquiries about the Cataloguing Grant programme, including about eligibility, please contact us at archivegrants@nationalarchives.gov.uk.
If you have any particular access needs throughout the application process, for example British Sign Language interpretation, please get in touch and we would be happy to help provide the support you need.