Global Prize for Innovation in Water 2026: Innovators Can Win Up to $100,000
Nigerian innovators, startups, researchers and organizations developing solutions to water-related challenges can apply for the Global Prize for Innovation in Water (GPIW) 2026.
The international competition, launched by the Saudi Water Authority, is seeking innovative solutions across the water sector, including water production, treatment, reuse, monitoring and protection.
“Water scarcity is one of the defining global challenges of our time.” — Global Prize for Innovation in Water 2026
The organizers say addressing this challenge requires breakthroughs across the entire water value chain and are inviting innovators from around the world to showcase solutions that can make a measurable difference.
What Can Applicants Win?
The 2026 competition has a total prize pool of US$800,000, including:
- Two Grand Prizes of US$100,000 each
- 12 Impact Medals worth US$50,000 each
- Global recognition and networking opportunities
- Potential piloting support for selected winning innovations
Who Can Apply?
The competition welcomes:
- Individual innovators
- Startups and scale-ups
- Researchers and research groups
- Universities and academic teams
- NGOs
- Companies and other organizations
Applicants must own or have appropriate rights to the technologies, methods, and intellectual property included in their submission.
Areas of Innovation
Eligible solutions can address areas across the water value chain, including water production, treatment, reuse, digitalization, smart water management, environmental sustainability, conservation and wastewater solutions.
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Identify the water challenge with their solution addresses.
- Select the appropriate technology-readiness category.
- Prepare a written proposal.
- Prepare a short pitch video and pitch document.
- Submit the required materials online.
The application must be submitted in English.
Deadline: September 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Arabian Standard Time (UTC+3).
Official Application
Apply for the Global Prize for Innovation in Water 2026
The Global Prize for Innovation in Water 2026 gives Nigerian innovators an opportunity to showcase solutions to important water challenges, compete for substantial financial awards and gain international recognition.
Interested applicants should review the official requirements and submit their applications before the September 30, 2026, deadline.
