Water.org Advances FY25 Efforts to Tackle the Global Water Crisis

Water.org's Commitment to Solving the Global Water Crisis

Water.org is entering Fiscal Year 2025 with a strong commitment to addressing the ongoing global water and sanitation crisis. Building on its significant achievements in FY24, the organization has mobilized an impressive $965 million in capital, impacting 10.2 million people by enhancing their access to safe water and sanitation. The collaborative efforts undertaken over the past year demonstrate the difference that financial partnership makes in turning the tide towards water accessibility.

Achievements in FY24

Throughout FY24, Water.org forged impactful partnerships, notably with the Peruvian Federation of Municipal Savings and Credit Banks (FEPCMAC) and COFIDE, the national development bank of Peru. Together, they pioneered the issuance of Peru's inaugural blue bond, which raised $26.3 million to fund water and sanitation services for rural and underserved communities.

This innovative financial tool is designed to dissolve the barriers preventing families from accessing safe water and sanitation solutions. Janet Tinsley, the Chief Global Impact Officer for Water.org, emphasized that such monetary collaborations not only alleviate immediate financial strains but also empower local communities to adapt more resilient infrastructures that can withstand climate challenges.

The Power of the Blue Bond

The introduction of the blue bond represents a significant shift toward mobilizing resources from institutional investors, directly benefitting communities that lack basic water services. As Rocio Cavazos, Regional Director for Latin America, explained, this initiative highlighted the efficacy of leveraging local financial systems to create sustainable solutions. By supporting infrastructure projects dedicated to enhancing water access, families can gradually obviate the dilemmas posed by climate change and systemic poverty.

Launch of WaterConnect

In addition to innovative financing solutions, Water.org introduced WaterConnect, an initiative that seeks to tackle critical gaps in water and sanitation infrastructure development in low- and middle-income countries. This unique platform aims to facilitate construction-stage funding for climate-resilient projects, ensuring sustainability and efficacy in execution.

Meanwhile, WaterEquity, established as an impact investment manager by Water.org, secured over $100 million in private investments for its Water Climate Resilience Fund. This fund is pivotal in addressing both climate and water-related challenges in vulnerable communities, exemplifying Water.org’s multifaceted approach to the global water crisis.

Looking to the Future: Plans for FY25

As Water.org transitions into FY25, the organization is poised to intensify its efforts, focusing on tailored solutions that meet the diverse needs of families and communities worldwide. The aim is to empower individuals by enabling them to select the best options achievable under their specific circumstances. By fostering partnerships and building on the successes of fiscal year 2024, Water.org is committed to creating lasting changes for families through sustainable water and sanitation solutions.

To support the ongoing mission of expanding access to safe water and sanitation, stakeholders and the public can contribute by visiting Water.org/donate.

About Water.org

Founded by Gary White and Matt Damon, Water.org is a pioneering nonprofit organization that has transformed over 73 million lives worldwide through improved access to safe water and sanitation. With over three decades of experience, the organization strives to empower women, enhance children's health, and create better futures for families impacted by the global water crisis. Further information about their mission, initiatives, and impact can be found at Water.org.