Water Environment Federation Launches $1 Million Grant Program for Member Associations

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) has taken a significant step to strengthen its network of Member Associations (MAs) by announcing the launch of the Federation Impact Grant Program, which is backed by a substantial investment of $1 million. This initiative is designed to bolster organizational growth, promote innovation, and enhance the long-term impact of these associations in the water sector.

A Full-Circle Moment for WEF

Unveiled during WEFTEC 2026, the intention behind the grant program is rooted in a rich history of collaboration and shared commitment amongst WEF’s Member Associations. The funding is sourced from the proceeds of the sale of WEF's former headquarters. This building was built through the hard work and dedication of member associations and their leaders. Keith Hobson, President of WEF, remarked, "This is a truly full-circle moment for our federation. Generations of Member Association leaders helped build the foundation that allowed WEF to grow and thrive. Today, we reinvest the value created through that shared commitment back into the Member Associations themselves so they can continue to make local impact. It's both a recognition of their legacy and an investment in the future."

Breakdown of the Grant Program

The Federation Impact Grant Program comprises four distinct funding categories:
1. Foundational MA Investment Fund ($450,000) - This fund is allocated to assist core organizational needs, including infrastructure and technology improvements, membership growth initiatives, volunteer development, and engagement in WEF programs.
2. MA-Led Innovation and Pilot Program Fund ($350,000) - Focused on promoting new ideas and pilot projects, this fund supports strategic priorities such as workforce development and community engagement, as well as innovative approaches that strengthen the water industry.
3. Centennial Legacy Support Fund ($100,000) - This fund aids Member Associations in preserving and celebrating their history, documenting contributions to the water profession, and participating in activities related to WEF's upcoming Centennial anniversary.
4. MA Emergency and Resilience Reserve ($100,000) - Designed to help Member Associations navigate unforeseen challenges, this fund will ensure continuity during unexpected events or disruptions.

Empowering Local Leaders

WEF’s initiative aims to empower local leaders by providing them with the resources necessary to address the unique needs of their members and the communities they serve. "Our Member Associations have always been the backbone of WEF," stated Hobson. "It's incredibly meaningful to take the proceeds from the sale of our headquarters and invest them back into the organizations that helped secure it years ago. Through this investment, we hope to honor their legacy and equip our Member Associations to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead in the decades to come."

Next Steps

Detailed application materials, eligibility requirements, funding guidelines, and evaluation criteria are slated for release when the application period kicks off on November 1.
For further information, interested parties can reach out to Trinity Foreman, WEF's Director of Communications.

About the Water Environment Federation

Founded in 1928, the Water Environment Federation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving water professionals with education and training resources. It is leading the transformation toward a Circular Water Economy, which focuses on reducing waste, recovering resources, and regenerating ecosystems. WEF’s primary event, WEFTEC, is the largest water quality exhibition in North America, bringing together more than 20,000 registrants and 1,000 exhibitors to explore innovative solutions for the future of water. For more information, visit wef.org.