Applications are open for the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship 2027, an international programme supporting young professionals developing innovative solutions to water-related challenges.
Organised by the International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos, the fellowship focuses on improving access to clean water and sanitation while promoting sustainable water management. Running from February 2027 to December 2028, the programme combines online activities with in-person engagements in the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Malaysia.
Selected fellows will receive financial support for required programme travel, including flights, accommodation, meals, local transportation, travel insurance, and visa application fees. Young professionals with existing water-related innovations are encouraged to apply before the November 5, 2026 deadline.
SDG 6 Fellowship 2027 Overview
- Host organisations: International Water Association (IWA) and Grundfos
- Fellowship locations: United Kingdom, Denmark, and Malaysia
- Duration: February 2027 – December 2028
- Funding: Fully funded travel support for required activities
- Application deadline: November 5, 2026
- Target group: Young professionals working on water-related challenges
Fellowship Benefits
Selected participants will receive support for required in-person fellowship activities, including:
- Economy-class airfare.
- Single-occupancy accommodation during programme activities.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during relevant activities.
- Local transportation between airports, hotels, and event venues.
- Travel insurance for required fellowship travel.
- Coverage of visa application fees for required travel.
The programme also offers opportunities to exchange ideas with water-sector professionals, develop innovative solutions, and contribute to efforts addressing global water challenges.
Fellowship Locations
The fellowship combines online participation with in-person activities at several international locations.
- London, United Kingdom: Activities involving the International Water Association.
- Bjerringbro, Denmark: Engagements involving Grundfos.
- Malaysia: Participation connected with the 2028 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition.
Participants should be prepared to engage throughout the fellowship period and attend the required activities.
What Is SDG 6?
Sustainable Development Goal 6 is one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It aims to ensure that everyone has access to clean water and sanitation while encouraging the sustainable management of water resources.
The IWA & Grundfos fellowship supports young professionals working on practical solutions to water-related problems, including improving water access, developing sustainable technologies, and strengthening water-sector systems.
Areas of Innovation
Applicants should have an existing innovation or solution addressing a water-related challenge. Relevant areas include:
- Research and technology.
- Innovative financing and business models.
- Capacity building.
Applicants should demonstrate progress in developing, testing, or validating their proposed solutions.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old, with the age requirement applying through December 2028.
- Hold an active IWA Young Water Professional membership or qualify as an eligible Grundfos employee.
- Have relevant experience in the water sector through employment, research, education, or entrepreneurship.
- Demonstrate a commitment to improving the water sector.
- Show leadership potential and the ability to work collaboratively.
- Have an existing innovation addressing a water-related challenge.
- Demonstrate progress in developing, testing, or validating the proposed solution.
- Have a good working knowledge of English.
- Be willing to participate throughout the fellowship.
Applicants are not eligible if they are former IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellows, current or former participants in the IWA Leadership Programme (IWA LeaP), or participants in the IWA Mentorship Programme.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents in English:
- CV: Maximum two pages.
- Motivation letter: Maximum two pages, explaining your interest and suitability for the programme.
- Reference letter: Maximum one page, preferably from an IWA member.
- Innovation proposal: Maximum two pages describing your water-related solution, its progress, and its potential impact.
Ensure that the documents are complete and follow the specified page limits before submitting your application.
How to Apply for the SDG 6 Fellowship 2027
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the official International Water Association website.
- Read the fellowship announcement and confirm the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare the CV, motivation letter, reference letter, and innovation proposal.
- Complete the online application form and submit the required documents.
- Submit the application before November 5, 2026.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Applicants should locate the IWA & Grundfos Youth Action for SDG 6 Fellowship announcement on the official website to access the application form and complete instructions.
Check other opportunities:
Impact AI Fellowship 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded)
UN Journalism Fellowship 2027 in Qatar (Fully Funded)
CaCTüS Summer Internship 2027 in Germany (Fully Funded)
Cambridge Interfaith Programme Fellowship 2027 at the University of Cambridge
2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program (Fully Funded)
HENNGE Global Internship 2027 in Japan (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for a Canada Visa in 2026: Study, Visit, Work and Permanent Residence
Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2027 in the USA: $700 Monthly Stipend and J-1 Visa Sponsorship
