Applications are open for the Global Prize for Innovation in Water (GPIW) 2026, inviting researchers, entrepreneurs, startups, companies and other innovators worldwide to submit technologies and solutions addressing major challenges across the water sector.
Launched by the Saudi Water Authority, GPIW seeks innovations that can improve how water is produced, treated, reused, managed and protected.
The 2026 competition offers an US$800,000 direct prize pool, alongside opportunities for piloting, technical support and engagement with the global water innovation ecosystem.
Awards
GPIW 2026 will award:
- Two Grand Prizes of US$100,000 each
- Twelve Impact Medals of US$50,000 each
- Special Mention recognition for advanced, market-ready solutions
Selected Grand Prize and Impact Medal winners may also be considered for additional piloting support through the Saudi Water Authority and its partners.
Innovation Categories
Applicants can submit solutions under six areas:
- Advanced Water Production and Desalination Technologies
- Water Reclamation, Circular Economy and Zero Liquid Discharge
- Water Efficiency, Conservation and Consumption Management
- Digitalization, Automation and Smart Water Management
- Environmental Sustainability and Water Resource Conservation
- Accessible and Cost-Effective Wastewater Solutions
Projects are assessed according to their technology readiness level, with cash awards available for innovations at TRL 1–3 and TRL 4–7. More advanced TRL 8–9 and market-ready technologies may be considered for Special Mention recognition.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open globally to:
- Individuals | Teams | Researchers and research groups | Startups and scale-ups | Companies | NGOs | Universities and academic teams
- Applicants must own or hold appropriate rights to the technology, methods and intellectual property included in their submission.
- Companies that have already raised funding and researchers whose work has previously been published can still apply.
Application Requirements
Submissions must be made in English and include:
- A written proposal describing the innovation, team, technical approach and potential impact
- A short pitch deck
- A two-minute pitch video
- Relevant supporting research or documentation, where applicable
Applicants may submit up to three entries.
Winner announcement: December 14, 2026