IWA & Grundfos “Youth Action for SDG 6” Fellowship 2027-2028
Brief Description
The
IWA & Grundfos “Youth Action for SDG 6” Fellowship 2027-2028 is an international two-year capacity-building programme designed to support the next generation of water leaders. Established in 2022 by the
International Water Association (IWA) and
Grundfos, this initiative provides a structured journey for
Young Water Professionals (YWPs) who want to refine, test, and scale innovative solutions to global water challenges. If you are developing a fresh approach or technology that targets
SDG 6, this is your opportunity to gain global visibility, technical mentorship, and direct access to industry experts. Whether you are a student, researcher, or entrepreneur aged
18 to 35 years old, the programme offers a unique global platform to accelerate your professional impact.
Name of Host Institution
International Water Association (IWA) and
GrundfosRequirements/Eligibility Criteria
- Open to individuals aged 18 to 35 years old (the IWA definition for Young Water Professionals).
- Welcomes students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals working in utilities, companies, public institutions, NGOs, and water-related organisations.
- Applicants must bring an existing innovation, solution, or approach intended for development during the Fellowship.
- The proposed work must respond to a clearly identified water-related problem with a defined concept and identified users or beneficiaries.
- Must demonstrate that tangible steps have already been taken to explore, develop, or validate the solution.
- The solution must remain at a stage where Fellowship participation can meaningfully influence its pathway toward wider uptake.
Programme Structure and Activities
The third cohort spans approximately two years, running from
February 2027 to December 2028. You will engage in a blended format combining online onboarding, regular monthly meetings, thematic peer-learning groups, and high-impact in-person events. Selected Fellows will travel for an initial gathering in
London, United Kingdom and
Bjerringbro, Denmark during the first semester of 2027, participate in international water-sector events in the second semester of 2027, and cap off the experience by attending the
2028 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Malaysia.
Application Materials Required
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages).
- Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages).
- Letter of reference, ideally from an IWA member (maximum 1 letter, 1 page).
- Innovation proposal (maximum 2 pages).
Deadline
Applications close on
November 5, 2026.
Apply Now
💡 Quick FAQ & IntelligenceTap to Expand
Q: What is the primary focus of the 2027-2028 Fellowship cohort?
The programme places a stronger focus on innovation and increasing the uptake of technology and innovative solutions within the water sector.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the IWA & Grundfos Fellowship?
Young Water Professionals aged 18 to 35 who are students, researchers, entrepreneurs, or professionals working on a defined water-related solution or approach.
Q: What international events are included in the programme?
Selected Fellows will participate in initial gatherings in London and Denmark, international water-sector events in 2027, and the 2028 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Malaysia.
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