Submit applications by June 12, 2026

The Japan Water Forum, City of Kyoto, and World Water Council invite applicants to the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize, a prestigious international award that recognizes grassroots organizations in developing countries for their outstanding achievements in addressing water-related challenges. The award aims to encourage and support the continued development of their activities. In particular,  the prize honors initiatives that reflect the unique social and cultural characteristics of local communities and contribute to the sustainable development of their regions.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Non-profit, non-governmental, and locally led organizations based in a developing country
• Organizations whose activities are non-sectarian in nature and conducted independently
• Initiatives that demonstrate clear local ownership and are not primarily financed or controlled by external entities from developing countries
• Applications must be submitted in English
   

Prize

One organization will receive 2,000,000 JPY (approximately $13,000 USD, subject to exchange rate). The prize money is intended to support the continuation and enhancement of the awarded activities. The winning organization is required to submit a report on the activities carried out using the prize money within one year of receiving the award.

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