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Call for Grant Applications –

The Emergence of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for Water Resources Planning

Organisation Name:

The Water Research Foundation (WRF)

Grant Amount: up to $175,000

Application Deadline:

November 21, 2024

About Organisation

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is a premier research organization committed to advancing water science to meet the evolving needs of the water sector. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational entity, WRF funds, manages, and disseminates research focused on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems. Through its efforts, WRF aims to ensure water quality and enhance public water services. By addressing the challenges facing the water sector, WRF supports the development of innovative solutions and best practices, ultimately improving the sustainability and efficiency of water systems. With a diverse range of subscribers, including water utilities and industry stakeholders, WRF plays a critical role in facilitating research that informs policies and practices in water management. Its mission is to provide actionable insights and guidance to help the water sector adapt to emerging challenges, including climate change, population growth, and resource scarcity, ensuring that water remains a vital and accessible resource for all.

About the Grant

The WRF grant focuses on harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) applications to enhance water resources planning and management. AI offers advanced tools for modeling, data analysis, and decision-making that can significantly improve how utilities predict water demand, manage supply availability, and address the impacts of climate change. Given the complexities of modern water systems and the vast amounts of data they generate, AI can provide valuable insights to optimize operations and resource allocation. The grant aims to bridge the gap between traditional water management practices and innovative AI technologies, helping utilities navigate challenges like data overload, resource scarcity, and climate uncertainty. Proposals should identify the potential applications and benefits of AI, along with the challenges of implementing these technologies in water planning. The goal is to provide guidance to utility planners on investing in and utilizing AI tools effectively, ensuring their practical applicability across various utility contexts.

Who can Apply?

Proposals are welcomed from both U.S.-based and non-U.S.-based entities, including educational institutions, research organizations, governmental agencies, consultants, and for-profit companies. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to conduct research that aligns with the grant objectives, particularly in identifying AI applications in water resources planning. Collaborations between multiple organizations are encouraged to foster diverse perspectives and expertise. Each proposal should articulate a clear plan for engaging with water utilities to ensure that the findings are relevant and applicable to real-world challenges faced by planners. Additionally, proposals should outline the research approach and methodology to be employed, emphasizing creativity and originality. Successful applicants will showcase how their projects can contribute to advancing the understanding and implementation of AI in the water sector, supporting ongoing efforts to improve water resource management in the face of evolving challenges.

How to Apply?

Proposals must be submitted online in PDF format through the designated submission system before 3:00 pm MT on November 21, 2024. Ensure all documents are complete and uploaded in advance.

Application Deadline

Proposals must be submitted by November 21, 2024, at 3:00 pm MT.

Last Date To Apply
November 21, 2024

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