ADW Future Design Scholars Program
Selection

Selection Process

The 2026 process considered scholarly research and research-led creative practice on their own terms rather than applying one disciplinary model to every proposal.

2026 updateReview has concluded. Individual notifications began July 10, 2026, and award coordination is underway.
Process

Five stages from eligibility to award coordination

  1. 1

    Eligibility review

    Applications were checked for completeness and alignment with the published Fellowship requirements.

  2. 2

    Expert assessment

    Eligible proposals were read in relation to their field, method, prior work, and interdisciplinary context.

  3. 3

    Online interview where needed

    Selected applicants were invited to clarify the proposal, host environment, feasibility, or intended contribution.

  4. 4

    Committee deliberation

    The Review Committee considered the complete body of evidence and the fit of each project with the Fellowship.

  5. 5

    Individual notification and award coordination

    Selected applicants entered direct discussion of duration, support, host arrangements, and individual Award Letter terms.

Evaluation dimensions

What reviewers considered

The dimensions were read together; no single item functioned as a stand-alone formula.

Originality, clarity, and importance of the research question

Quality and appropriateness of the research approach

Applicant's record of research or research-led creative practice

Necessity and depth of interdisciplinary integration

Feasibility of the work plan

Potential scholarly, design, cultural, technological, environmental, or public value

Fit between the proposed research environment and the project

Review committee

A design research and education perspective across fields.

The 2026 ADW Future Design Fellowship Review Committee draws on the Asia Design Week academic and professional network. Review assignments reflect subject relevance and the need for independent academic judgment.

Committee members review applications in areas aligned with their expertise. Potential conflicts of interest are disclosed and managed through recusal where appropriate. Program administration and academic assessment are coordinated as distinct responsibilities within the Fellowship process.

Meet the Program Committee