Call for
Integrating Equitable Outcomes into Water Reuse Projects
Application Deadline:
7 May 2025
About Organisation
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the premier research organization dedicated to advancing water science to meet the evolving needs of the water sector. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational entity, WRF is committed to enhancing the technology, operations, and management of water systems, including drinking water, wastewater, water reuse, and stormwater. Its mission is to ensure high-quality water and improved water services for the public through research-based insights.
Established in 2018 through the unification of three respected bodies—the WateReuse Research Foundation, the Water Environment Research Foundation, and the original Water Research Foundation—WRF now functions as a unified “One Water” organization. Each predecessor organization focused on specific areas of the water sector, and their integration has enabled a more holistic approach to addressing critical water challenges. WRF supports utilities, policymakers, and other stakeholders by funding and managing innovative research that fosters sustainable water practices and infrastructure development. The foundation serves as a critical bridge between science and application, ensuring that research findings are translated into practical strategies and tools to meet pressing water issues while promoting equity, sustainability, and resilience across communities.
About the Grant
This grant opportunity is part of WRF’s Research Priority Program and aims to support a project focused on equitable implementation of diversifying water systems. The project seeks to help utilities and decision-makers holistically evaluate the potential benefits and impacts of alternative water sources, such as reuse systems. By quantifying and operationalizing equitable outcomes, the initiative will address key water equity issues and inform better planning and execution of future projects.
The grant supports work that strengthens the understanding of “water equity” in the context of expanding and diversifying water infrastructure. It encourages the development of a practical equity framework and case studies that explore how reuse systems impact access, affordability, and broader community investments like workforce development and neighborhood revitalization. The research should deliver actionable tools, metrics, or guidelines to support inclusive and informed decision-making processes.
The proposal process is designed to be open and flexible, inviting creative approaches to achieve project goals. Expected outputs may include a research report, equity framework, case studies, guidance documents, and engagement strategies like workshops or webcasts. WRF encourages partnerships and diversity in project representation, with the project timeline ranging from 18 to 24 months from the start date.
Who can Apply?
The Water Research Foundation welcomes proposals from a wide range of entities, ensuring inclusivity and diversity in its research initiatives. Applications are open to both U.S.-based and international organizations. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, independent research organizations, non-profit organizations, government agencies, private consulting firms, and other for-profit entities engaged in research, policy, and practice related to water systems and infrastructure.
Applicants should be capable of demonstrating expertise in water equity, infrastructure development, community engagement, or water reuse systems. A collaborative approach is strongly encouraged; teams should reflect diverse perspectives and expertise that align with the project’s holistic and equity-centered goals. Partnerships between academic institutions and community-based organizations or utilities are particularly welcomed to ensure real-world applicability and effective community engagement.
Proposals must show how the applicant will address the grant objectives, develop measurable outcomes, and create relevant deliverables. Applicants are also expected to incorporate flexibility and innovation into their research design while working within the guidelines and expectations of WRF. While WRF can support in identifying project participants or case studies, the responsibility to initiate partnerships and construct a detailed research approach lies with the applicant team.
How to Apply?
Applicants must submit their proposals online in PDF format via WRF’s proposal portal. It is recommended to complete submissions well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues. Proposals must be detailed, clear, and aligned with the stated objectives, including methodology, team composition, budget, and expected deliverables. Only complete submissions received before the deadline will be considered for review.
Application Deadline
The complete proposal must be submitted online before 3:00 PM Mountain Time on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Last Date to Apply
The final date to apply for the WRF Research Priority Program grant is May 7, 2025. Ensure timely submission by completing all requirements before the deadline.
Grant Amount
Applicants may request funding of up to $200,000 for this project under the WRF Research Priority Program. The grant will support a project duration of 18–24 months.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
