This initiative, selected and supported by the European Institute for Innovation and Technology (EIT), will be a central force in tackling increasing water-related pressures due to climate change, economic demand and population growth.
Jessica Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and Competitive Circular Economy, commented on the importance of this project:
“With EIT Water, Europe is strengthening its ability to manage and protect this shared resource more sustainably and innovatively.
“This new community will play a key role in implementing water resilience strategies and building a water smart economy in Europe – a water smart economy that works for people, nature and competitiveness.”
A groundbreaking addition to the EIT network
EIT Water, the tenth KIC in the EIT portfolio, represents a strategic expansion of Europe’s innovation capabilities.
Unlike traditional sectoral programmes, EIT Water brings together all areas of the water cycle – rivers, coastlines, oceans and their associated industries – under one coordinated approach.
Through entrepreneurial training, innovation financing, and business incubation, the community aims to build a stronger talent pipeline and accelerate the commercial adoption of new technologies across member countries.
Addressing Europe’s most pressing water challenges
At the heart of EIT Water’s mission are three priority areas:
Extreme climate-induced water situations, such as droughts, worsening floods, and worsening water shortages. Degradation of marine and freshwater ecosystems that threatens biodiversity, economic activity, and long-term sustainability. Promoting a circular and sustainable blue economy, smarter resource use, cleaner industry and resilient coastal communities.
As the water crisis intensifies across Europe, this new initiative will provide an integrated platform for research, innovation and real-world deployment.
A pan-European consortium leading the way
The newly selected consortium Allwaters brings together 50 organizations from 24 countries.
Its diverse membership, from universities and research centres, to small and medium-sized enterprises, ports, NGOs and key industry players, reflects the scale and complexity of Europe’s water challenges.
This extensive collaboration will guide the development of EIT Water and ensure solutions rooted in local needs.
Michelle Williams, Coordinator of Aarhus University (All Waters Consortium) added:
“Water is life and its protection requires innovation, collaboration and commitment. We look forward to working with EIT and our partners across Europe to develop solutions that will make our water systems more resilient, circular and sustainable for future generations.”
Funding, schedule, and long-term vision
To support the start-up phase in 2026, EIT will provide start-up funding of up to €5 million, with EIT Water expected to be fully operational by 2027.
The program is designed as an open partnership, welcoming stakeholders from across the water sector throughout its 15-year mandate.
Its long-term goal is to leverage significant public and private investment to have a transformative and lasting impact on Europe’s water systems.
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