The Grant Review Process for the Endangered Wooden Architecture Programme

 As our second grant application round came to a close in February this year we began our grant review process. This process is twofold. First, we ask two experts to provide written peer reviews for each application to help us decide which activities to fund. Second, the reviews are assessed by the EWAP Advisory Board, who rank the applications before finally selecting the projects that will be funded. 

Why do we undertake a peer review process?

Committees, boards and panels bring together people with a wealth of expertise. But no board can comprise experts on all topics. So we need to be absolutely sure that decisions are based on the best possible evidence and expertise available, and that’s where peer review comes in. 

To get the best quality peer review, these reviews remain confidential. This allows reviewers to comment freely in the knowledge that we’ll only show their comments to others directly involved in the decision-making process. 

In EWAP we value expertise in the vernacular architecture of a specific geographic region, so comprehensive reviews are invaluable in helping the board or panel make funding decisions. 

The review form contains various questions to aid with their assessment of it. Questions reviewers are asked to consider include:

• Is there a sufficient case for the historical and/or cultural significance of the structures? 
• Is the level of urgency to record the structures justified?
• Is the plan for carrying out the proposed activities well-reasoned, well-organised, and based on a sound rationale?
• Is the timeline clearly articulated and realistic for the activities to be undertaken?
• Does the applicant(s) bring the appropriate expertise and experience to lead and deliver the proposed project?
• Are ethical situations clearly addressed?  
• Is there evidence of existing networks in the area/ with the local communities and familiarity with the research environment?
• Does this application represent good value for money? E.g. are the costs appropriate for the region and for the number of structures to be recorded?
• Does the equipment to be purchased correspond with the methodology and project plan?
• Has the applicant sufficiently identified and outlined ways to engage with project beneficiaries throughout the project?

Key points for writing a winning grant proposal

What makes a good grant proposal? Here are some aspects to focus on while writing your next grant proposal and make it stand out.

If you would like to consider being a peer reviewer you can sign up here.

The next EWAP Grant round will open in September 2023 (click here to find out more)* please note that large grants will not be on offer for the 2023-4 grant round.