The Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027 is an international award recognizing grassroots organizations in developing countries that are tackling water-related challenges. It will be presented at the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2027, offering a cash prize to support the continuation and enhancement of the winning project.
The Prize is co-organized by Kyoto City and the World Water Council, with the Japan Water Forum serving as the secretariat. Established in 2003, it aims to highlight the importance of local action and sustainable development in solving global water issues.
Kyoto World Water Grand Prize Benefits
- Prize Money: 2,000,000 JPY (approximately USD 13,000, subject to exchange rate)
- The prize money is intended to support the continuation and enhancement of the awarded activities.
- One representative from the winning organization will be invited to attend the award ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, appear on stage, and deliver an award acceptance speech.
Kyoto World Water Grand Prize Eligibility 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
- Eligible projects must have been implemented during the past five years (2020–2024; follow-up activities may extend through 2025)
How to Apply for Kyoto World Water Grand Prize
- Read the Application Guidelines carefully before starting your application.
- Submit the Online Application Form during the application period: March 31, 2026 to June 12, 2026 (Friday), 11:59 p.m. (JST).
- Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.
- Language: English.
- If you experience technical difficulties, contact the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize Secretariat at kyoto-waterprize*waterforum.jp (replace * with @).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this international award for grassroots water initiatives.
What is the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize?
The Kyoto World Water Grand Prize is an international award established in 2003 to recognize grassroots organizations working to solve water-related challenges in developing countries. It is co-organized by Kyoto City and the World Water Council and presented every three years at the World Water Forum.
Who is eligible to apply for the prize?
Eligible applicants are non-profit, non-governmental, locally led organizations based in a developing country. Their activities must be non-sectarian, independent, and demonstrate clear local ownership, not primarily financed or controlled by external entities from developing countries.
What is the application deadline for the 2027 prize?
The application period is from March 31, 2026 to June 12, 2026 (Friday), 11:59 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST). Applications submitted after this deadline will not be accepted.
What are the benefits of winning the Grand Prize?
The winner receives a cash prize of 2,000,000 JPY (approximately USD 13,000) to support the continuation and enhancement of their activities. One representative is also invited to attend the award ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in March 2027 to receive the prize on stage.
How do I apply for the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize?
Applicants must read the Application Guidelines and then submit the Online Application Form during the specified application period. The application language is English. Technical issues can be reported to the Secretariat via email.
What is the selection process for the prize?
Applications are reviewed by the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize 2027 Selection Committee, which selects one Grand Prize winner. Projects must have been implemented during the past five years (2020-2024, with follow-up possibly through 2025).
Where and when will the award be presented?
The award will be presented at the Opening or Closing Ceremony of the 11th World Water Forum, to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from March 21 to 25, 2027.
Who organizes the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize?
The Prize is co-organized by Kyoto City and the World Water Council (WWC). The Japan Water Forum acts as the secretariat for the award.
What are the language requirements for the application?
The application process, including the Guidelines and Online Application Form, is conducted in English. All submissions and communications must be in English.
What should I do if I have technical problems with the application form?
If you experience technical difficulties due to network issues when submitting the online form, please contact the Kyoto World Water Grand Prize Secretariat at kyoto-waterprize*waterforum.jp (replacing * with @).
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