The SDG 6 Fellowship 2027–2028, officially known as the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship, is accepting applications from young water professionals worldwide. The programme supports emerging leaders who are developing innovative solutions to water and sanitation challenges.
Organized by the International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos, this international fellowship combines professional development, mentorship, innovation support and global networking.
Selected fellows will participate in online activities and international events over approximately two years. The programme is expected to include activities in the United Kingdom, Denmark and Malaysia.
Financial support is available for required in-person fellowship activities, including international travel, accommodation, meals, local transportation, travel insurance and visa application fees.
However, the fellowship does not provide a salary or direct funding to implement participants’ projects.
Applications are open to eligible young professionals aged 18–35 who are already exploring or developing a water-related innovation.
The application deadline is 5 November 2026.
Interested candidates can review the official IWA fellowship announcement.
Fellowship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship |
| Cohort | 2027–2028 |
| Organizers | International Water Association and Grundfos |
| Programme Duration | February 2027 – December 2028 |
| Eligibility | Young water professionals |
| Age Requirement | 18–35 years |
| Nationality | International applicants |
| Main Focus | Water innovation, leadership and SDG 6 |
| Programme Format | Online and in-person |
| Expected International Locations | United Kingdom, Denmark and Malaysia |
| Travel Support | Economy-class airfare for required activities |
| Accommodation | Covered for required in-person activities |
| Meals | Covered during supported activities |
| Visa Application Fees | Expected to be covered |
| Project Implementation Grant | Not provided |
| Application Language | English |
| Application Deadline | 5 November 2026 |
| Application Method | Online |
What Is the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship?
The IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for Fellowship is an international professional development programme designed to strengthen young people’s contributions to the water sector.
It was established in 2022 and has already supported two fellowship cohorts.
The 2027–2028 programme represents the third cohort.
This edition places particular emphasis on innovation and the practical adoption of new solutions.
Rather than focusing only on leadership training, the fellowship aims to help participants refine ideas and approaches that could address real water-related problems.
Fellows will have opportunities to engage with researchers, engineers, entrepreneurs, water utilities and other professionals.
They will also receive support to improve the feasibility and potential impact of their innovations.
The programme encourages participants to connect technical knowledge with practical implementation.
About the Organizers
International Water Association
The International Water Association is a global network of water professionals, researchers, utilities, companies and institutions.
It supports the exchange of knowledge and encourages innovation in water management, sanitation and related fields.
IWA also promotes the professional development of young water professionals through international networking and learning opportunities.
Official website: International Water Association
Grundfos
Grundfos is an international water technology company headquartered in Denmark.
Its activities include pumping systems and technologies used in water supply, water management and related applications.
Through its partnership with IWA, the company supports the development of young professionals working on water-related challenges.
Official website: Grundfos
What Is SDG 6?
Sustainable Development Goal 6 is one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
It focuses on ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Water and sanitation challenges affect public health, environmental protection, economic development and community well-being.
Achieving SDG 6 requires more than expanding water infrastructure.
It also involves improving water quality, strengthening water-use efficiency, supporting sanitation services and developing effective management systems.
The fellowship encourages young professionals to contribute practical innovations that can help address these challenges.
What Makes the 2027–2028 Fellowship Different?
The third fellowship cohort introduces a stronger focus on innovation and the adoption of water-sector solutions.
Applicants should already be working on an idea, concept, prototype, early pilot or other practical approach.
The proposed innovation must respond to an identifiable water-related challenge.
It should also have the potential to benefit from technical guidance, professional networks and capacity development.
Participants do not need to have an established company or start-up.
However, they must demonstrate that they have taken meaningful steps toward developing or validating their proposed solution.
For example, an applicant may have conducted initial research, consulted potential users, tested a prototype or carried out an early pilot activity.
An unsupported idea alone will not meet the programme’s expectations.
Main Fellowship Focus Areas
The programme identifies three broad innovation areas.
1. Applied Research and Solution Innovation
This area focuses on translating research, technical knowledge and emerging technologies into practical water-sector solutions.
Possible innovations may involve water treatment, monitoring, sanitation technologies or improved water management processes.
Applicants should explain how their proposed approach addresses a real problem.
2. Innovative Financial Mechanisms and Business Models
This area explores approaches that can help water innovations become financially viable and more widely adopted.
Projects may involve financing arrangements, business models or mechanisms that support the implementation of water solutions.
The emphasis is on practical approaches that can improve uptake or sustainability.
3. Capacity Building and Enabling Approaches
This area supports innovations that help people, institutions, utilities or communities adopt and benefit from water-related solutions.
Examples may include improved training methods, knowledge-sharing approaches or practical systems for strengthening organizational capacity.
These three areas are not rigid programme tracks.
The final learning groups will depend on the backgrounds and projects of selected fellows.
Fellowship Duration and Activities
The programme is expected to run from February 2027 to December 2028.
It combines online engagement with selected international in-person activities.
Online Onboarding and Monthly Meetings
Fellows will begin with online onboarding and participate in regular meetings throughout the programme.
These sessions will support communication, collaboration and progress monitoring.
International Gathering in 2027
An initial in-person gathering is expected during the first half of 2027.
Planned activities involve London in the United Kingdom and Bjerringbro in Denmark.
Participants may engage with IWA and Grundfos representatives during these activities.
Innovation and Professional Development
Fellows will participate in sessions related to innovation, entrepreneurship, technology adoption and implementation.
The programme will also provide opportunities to discuss challenges and receive professional feedback.
Peer Learning and Project Reviews
Participants will share their experiences and review progress on their proposed innovations.
This collaborative approach can help fellows identify weaknesses, improve their solutions and learn from other professionals.
International Water-Sector Events
Selected activities and events are expected during the second half of 2027.
These opportunities may help fellows expand their professional networks.
World Water Congress in Malaysia
The programme is expected to include participation in the 2028 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Malaysia.
This international event brings together professionals and organizations involved in the water sector.
The exact schedule and activities may be adjusted according to the final fellowship programme.
Financial Benefits of the SDG 6 Fellowship
The fellowship provides financial support for required international travel and in-person activities.
According to IWA, the programme is expected to cover several major participation expenses.
1. International Airfare
Economy-class air travel is expected to be covered for required fellowship activities.
Travel arrangements will follow the organizers’ policies.
2. Accommodation
Selected fellows are expected to receive single-occupancy accommodation during supported in-person activities.
3. Meals
The programme expects to cover breakfast, lunch and dinner during required activities.
4. Local Transportation
Ground transportation is expected to include transfers between airports, accommodation and fellowship venues.
5. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is included among the expected supported expenses.
6. Visa Application Fees
The fellowship is expected to cover visa application fees associated with required travel.
However, selected participants must apply for their visas themselves.
IWA and Grundfos cannot guarantee that a visa application will be approved.
7. Professional Development
Fellows will benefit from structured learning, technical discussions, peer exchange and access to international networks.
8. Innovation Support
The programme will help participants strengthen their proposed solutions through feedback, guidance and professional connections.
This support is developmental rather than a direct financial investment.
Is the SDG 6 Fellowship Fully Funded?
The programme provides substantial financial support for required participation.
However, it is important to understand the difference between funded fellowship activities and direct project financing.
| Expense | Expected Support |
|---|---|
| Economy-class airfare | Covered for required activities |
| Accommodation | Covered for required activities |
| Meals | Covered during supported activities |
| Airport and venue transfers | Covered |
| Travel insurance | Covered |
| Visa application fees | Covered |
| Monthly salary | Not provided |
| Project implementation grant | Not provided |
| Direct investment in innovation | Not provided |
The organizers describe the funding arrangements as expected support based on previous fellowship cohorts.
Detailed arrangements will be communicated to selected participants.
The fellowship supports professional development and participation, but it does not finance the implementation of fellows’ innovations.
Applicants seeking direct research grants or start-up funding should consider this distinction before applying.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship welcomes young professionals involved in the water sector.
Applicants may come from universities, research institutions, companies, public organizations, utilities, non-governmental organizations and entrepreneurial activities.
However, all candidates must meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
They must also be no older than 35 at the end of the fellowship in December 2028.
This age condition is particularly important because eligibility is linked to the programme’s completion date.
IWA Membership or Grundfos Employment
Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
- Hold an active IWA Young Water Professional membership.
- Be an eligible Grundfos employee who meets the young water professional age requirement.
Grundfos employees applying through their dedicated route do not need IWA membership.
Applicants who are neither eligible IWA members nor qualifying Grundfos employees do not meet this entry requirement.
Water-Sector Engagement
Candidates must be engaged in the water sector through education, research, employment, entrepreneurship or another relevant professional activity.
Commitment to Positive Change
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in addressing water-related challenges and creating meaningful improvements.
Leadership Potential
The fellowship seeks individuals who show initiative, leadership capacity and a willingness to collaborate.
Existing Innovation or Solution
Candidates must present an innovation or approach that addresses a relevant water challenge.
They should demonstrate tangible progress toward developing or validating it.
English Proficiency
Applicants must have a working knowledge of English.
The application itself must be submitted in English.
Availability
Selected fellows must commit to the programme’s activities throughout the fellowship period.
Previous Programme Participation
Applicants must not have previously participated in the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship.
Current or former participants of the IWA Leadership Programme or IWA Mentorship Programme are also ineligible.
Can International Applicants Apply?
Yes.
The fellowship is global and welcomes eligible applicants from different countries.
The organizers aim to build a cohort reflecting geographical, gender and professional diversity.
However, international eligibility does not remove the membership or employment requirements.
Applicants must also meet the age, innovation and programme participation conditions.
Visa requirements will depend on the participant’s nationality and the countries hosting in-person activities.
Can University Students Apply?
Yes.
University students involved in relevant water-sector activities may apply if they meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
However, the fellowship is not designed for applicants who have only a general academic interest in water issues.
Candidates should already be exploring, developing or validating a relevant innovation.
Students involved in applied research, water technology, sanitation or related projects may find the programme particularly relevant.
Can Researchers and Entrepreneurs Apply?
Yes.
Researchers and entrepreneurs working on water-related solutions are among the intended applicants.
An established business is not required.
For example, a researcher may be developing a new water-monitoring method.
An entrepreneur might be testing a service that improves access to safe water.
A professional working with a utility could be developing an operational improvement.
In each case, the applicant should explain the problem, the proposed solution and the progress already made.
What Type of Innovation Is Eligible?
The organizers interpret innovation broadly.
It may involve a new or significantly improved technology, product, service, process, financial mechanism or capacity-building approach.
A suitable proposal should:
- Address a clearly identified water-related challenge.
- Explain the proposed solution.
- Identify intended users or beneficiaries.
- Demonstrate practical progress or validation.
- Show potential for wider implementation or adoption.
- Explain how the fellowship could help improve the solution.
Applicants may be at the concept, prototype or early-pilot stage.
However, even a concept-stage application must show tangible action.
Candidates do not need a complete business plan.
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following documents.
1. Curriculum Vitae
Maximum length: Two pages
The CV should highlight relevant education, professional experience, research, leadership and water-sector activities.
2. Motivation Letter
Maximum length: Two pages
The letter should explain the applicant’s interest in the fellowship and how participation supports their professional goals.
3. Reference Letter
Maximum length: One page
Applicants must provide one reference letter.
A reference from an IWA member is preferred but is not stated as an absolute requirement.
4. Innovation Proposal
Maximum length: Two pages
This document should describe the proposed water-related innovation and its current development stage.
Applicants may also provide relevant supporting links through the online form.
How to Prepare a Strong Innovation Proposal
The innovation proposal is a central part of the application.
It should explain the applicant’s work clearly and demonstrate why fellowship support would be valuable.
Identify the Water Challenge
Begin by explaining the specific problem.
Avoid broad statements that do not identify a practical issue.
For example, describe a particular water-quality, sanitation, operational or access challenge.
Explain the Proposed Solution
Describe how the innovation aims to address the problem.
Identify what makes the approach different or potentially useful.
Identify the Beneficiaries
Explain who would use or benefit from the proposed solution.
These may include households, communities, utilities, public institutions or businesses.
Describe Progress So Far
Provide evidence of practical action.
This could include research, interviews, testing, prototypes, early implementation or feedback from intended users.
Explain the Main Challenges
Describe the barriers currently affecting further development.
These might involve technical limitations, adoption challenges, financing or institutional requirements.
Explain What You Hope to Achieve
Identify realistic goals for the fellowship period.
Connect the Project to Fellowship Support
Explain how technical input, peer learning, expert networks or international exposure could help advance the innovation.
The organizers do not require a complete business plan.
A clear and credible proposal is more useful than unsupported promises.
How to Write the Motivation Letter
The motivation letter should connect the applicant’s background with the fellowship’s objectives.
A useful structure includes:
Introduction
Briefly introduce your current role, academic background or professional activities.
Interest in SDG 6
Explain your interest in water and sanitation challenges.
Relevant Experience
Describe research, employment, volunteering, entrepreneurship or other practical experience.
Leadership and Collaboration
Provide examples of initiative, teamwork or contributions to water-sector activities.
Professional Development Goals
Explain which skills, knowledge or networks you hope to develop.
Expected Contribution
Describe what you can contribute to the fellowship cohort.
Future Impact
Explain how you intend to apply the experience after the fellowship.
Keep the letter within the two-page limit.
How to Apply for the SDG 6 Fellowship 2027–2028
The application process depends on whether the candidate is an IWA Young Water Professional member or an eligible Grundfos employee.
Step 1: Review the Official Announcement
Visit the IWA & Grundfos Fellowship announcement.
Read the eligibility requirements carefully.
Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
Check your age, professional background, membership or employment status, and previous programme participation.
Step 3: Prepare Your Innovation Proposal
Describe the problem, solution, intended beneficiaries and progress already achieved.
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documents
Complete your CV, motivation letter, reference letter and innovation proposal within the stated page limits.
Step 5: Access the Correct Application Route
For IWA Young Water Professional members:
Visit the official IWA fellowship application page.
Log in using your active IWA Connect Plus membership credentials.
For eligible Grundfos employees:
Use the dedicated application link distributed through Grundfos internal communication channels.
Grundfos employees without IWA membership should not use the standard member application form.
Step 6: Complete the Online Form
Provide accurate personal, professional and affiliation details.
Step 7: Describe Your Innovation
Explain the thematic area, development stage, challenges and expected outcomes.
Step 8: Upload Documents
Attach the required files.
Step 9: Review Your Application
Check all information, document lengths and supporting details.
Step 10: Submit Before the Deadline
Complete the online application no later than 5 November 2026.
Applicants should avoid waiting until the final day.
Selection Process
The selection process includes an initial review followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates.
Initial Assessment
The IWA Secretariat will review applications for eligibility and quality.
Shortlisting
Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant’s background and proposed innovation.
Interviews
Shortlisted candidates are expected to be invited to interviews with a selection panel involving IWA and Grundfos representatives.
Final Selection
The organizers will consider the quality of proposed solutions, leadership potential, commitment and possible contribution to the cohort.
The final selection will also consider diversity across regions, professional backgrounds and areas of water-sector innovation.
Selection Criteria
The official assessment considers several factors.
These include:
- Relevance of the water-related problem.
- Clarity and originality of the proposed solution.
- Evidence of development or validation.
- Potential for practical impact.
- Suitability for fellowship support.
- Applicant’s capabilities and leadership potential.
- Motivation and commitment.
- Contribution to peer learning and collaboration.
A strong application should demonstrate both an interesting innovation and the applicant’s ability to advance it.
Professionals interested in sustainability and emerging technologies can also explore the Impact AI Fellowship in Germany. This research programme offers a €5,000 stipend and an opportunity to evaluate how artificial intelligence applications affect society and the environment.
Important Dates
| Activity | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 5 October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 5 November 2026 |
| Shortlisted Candidate Interviews | Late November 2026 |
| Selection Announcement | Mid-December 2026 |
| Fellowship Begins | February 2027 |
| Initial International Activities | First half of 2027 |
| World Water Congress, Malaysia | 2028 |
| Fellowship Ends | December 2028 |
Interview and selection dates are tentative.
Applicants should monitor their email and official communications for updates.
Intellectual Property and Project Ownership
The fellowship does not take ownership of participants’ innovations simply because they participate in the programme.
According to the official announcement, intellectual property rights relating to innovations or projects developed or advanced through the fellowship remain with the respective fellows.
This is particularly relevant for researchers, entrepreneurs and professionals working on emerging technologies.
However, applicants should still review the official fellowship terms and any agreements involving their employer, university or project partners.
Does the Fellowship Provide a Research Grant?
No.
The fellowship does not provide direct project implementation grants, investment or financing.
Its primary purpose is to strengthen professional capabilities, improve innovations and help participants connect with relevant networks.
The experience may position fellows to pursue external funding, partnerships or accelerator opportunities later.
However, such opportunities are not guaranteed.
Why Is This Fellowship Valuable?
The programme combines professional development with practical innovation support.
Participants can benefit from international exposure while continuing to develop solutions relevant to their own communities or organizations.
They may also build connections with experienced professionals and institutions.
For young researchers, the fellowship can help bridge the gap between technical research and practical adoption.
Entrepreneurs may benefit from feedback on their approaches and opportunities to understand potential users or implementation partners.
Professionals working in utilities or public institutions may gain perspectives from international peers facing similar challenges.
The programme’s value lies in knowledge, collaboration and the opportunity to improve practical solutions.
Researchers interested in developing innovative solutions can also explore the KAUST Global Fellowship Program, which supports promising researchers pursuing advanced scientific research in Saudi Arabia.
Looking for more professional development opportunities? Explore our latest international fellowships for researchers, young professionals and emerging leaders worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SDG 6 Fellowship 2027–2028?
It is an international professional development SDG 6 fellowship organized by IWA and Grundfos for young water professionals developing innovations that address water and sanitation challenges.
Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
Yes. Eligible applicants from different countries may apply.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be at least 18 and no older than 35 at the end of December 2028.
Is IWA membership required?
Applicants generally need active IWA Young Water Professional membership. Eligible Grundfos employees can apply through a separate route without IWA membership.
Can students apply?
Yes, if they meet the eligibility requirements and have taken practical steps toward developing or validating a relevant innovation.
Can researchers apply?
Yes. Researchers working on relevant water-sector solutions are eligible to apply if they meet the other requirements.
Can entrepreneurs apply?
Yes. Applicants do not need to have an established start-up.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Required international activities are expected to receive substantial support, including airfare, accommodation, meals, local transportation, travel insurance and visa application fees. The programme does not provide a salary or project grant.
Does the fellowship cover visa costs?
Visa application fees are among the expenses expected to be covered for required activities. Fellows must apply for their visas themselves.
Is accommodation provided?
Accommodation is expected to be covered during required in-person activities.
Does the fellowship provide a monthly stipend?
The official announcement does not promise a monthly salary or stipend.
Does it provide project funding?
No. Direct project implementation funding is not included.
Do I need an existing innovation?
Yes. Applicants must demonstrate tangible progress toward developing or validating a relevant solution.
Is a business plan required?
No. The organizers do not require a complete business plan.
What language is required?
Applicants must have a working knowledge of English and submit their applications in English.
How long is the fellowship?
The programme is expected to run from February 2027 to December 2028.
Where will the activities take place?
The programme combines online sessions with expected activities in the United Kingdom, Denmark and Malaysia.
Can previous fellows apply again?
No. Former participants of this fellowship are not eligible.
Can IWA Leadership Programme participants apply?
Current or former IWA Leadership Programme participants are not eligible.
What is the application deadline?
5 November 2026.
When will shortlisted candidates be interviewed?
Interviews are tentatively expected in late November 2026.
When will successful applicants be announced?
The organizers expect to announce selected candidates around mid-December 2026.
Where can I apply?
Eligible IWA Young Water Professional members can apply through the official IWA application page. Qualifying Grundfos employees should use their dedicated internal application route.
Final Thoughts
The IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship 2027–2028 offers an international development opportunity for young water professionals who are already working on practical innovations.
The programme combines leadership development, technical learning, peer collaboration and international networking.
Selected fellows are expected to receive financial support for required travel and in-person activities.
However, the fellowship does not provide direct funding to implement projects.
Applicants should pay particular attention to the membership requirement, age limit and need to demonstrate progress on a water-related innovation.
With applications closing on 5 November 2026, eligible candidates should prepare their documents and submit them promptly.
Application Deadline: 5 November 2026
Official Source: International Water Association – Fellowship Announcement
Official Application: IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowships
Last Verified: 30 October 2026
Pathfinderly.com is an independent opportunities information website and is not affiliated with IWA or Grundfos. Applicants should verify the latest programme requirements, financial arrangements and application instructions through the official sources.