IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship 2027/28

Applications are open for the third cohort of the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship. The International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos run this programme. It supports Young Water Professionals aged 18 to 35. The 2027-2028 cohort focuses on innovation and technology uptake in the water sector.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos
• Funding: Covers travel, accommodation, meals, insurance, and visa fees for required in-person activities
• Duration: About two years, February 2027 to December 2028
• Format: Online sessions, plus in-person events in the UK and Denmark
• Eligibility: Active IWA Young Water Professional members or eligible Grundfos employees, aged 18 to 35
• Application Deadline: November 5, 2026

Focus Areas

• Applied research and product innovation
• Innovative financing and business models
• Capacity building and enabling approaches
• Technology uptake in the water sector

About the Fellowship

The fellowship launched in 2022 to strengthen young water leaders. It now targets professionals already developing a water-related solution. Applicants need a clear problem, a proposed approach, and tangible progress. Fellows join peer-learning groups and project reviews. They also engage with IWA and Grundfos experts.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows receive capacity development in innovation, entrepreneurship, and implementation. The programme covers economy flights and meals for required travel. It also covers accommodation, ground transport, and travel insurance. Fellows attend the 2028 IWA World Water Congress in Malaysia. The programme provides no grants for implementing projects.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must hold an active IWA Young Water Professional membership. Eligible Grundfos employees may also apply through a dedicated route. All applicants must be aged 18 to 35 by December 2028. They must work or study in the water sector. Former fellows and IWA Leadership Programme participants cannot apply.

Required Materials

Applicants submit a two-page CV and a two-page motivation letter. They also provide a two-page innovation proposal. One reference letter, ideally from an IWA member, is required. Applications must be in English.

How to Apply

Submit your application before November 5, 2026.

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Conclusion

This fellowship offers young water innovators training, networks, and international exposure. It provides no project funding, so applicants should plan separately for implementation costs. Interviews take place in late November. Confirm all details through IWA’s official page.

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