The Water Discovery Challenge 2 is a UK-wide innovation competition designed to support early-stage ideas that could transform the water sector. Part of the Water Innovation Fund, the challenge seeks ambitious, scalable solutions that address key industry and environmental issues, including leakage reduction, pollution prevention, climate resilience, net zero emissions and improving outcomes for customers and the environment.
The competition opens on 20 January 2026 and closes on 8 April 2026. A total funding pot of approximately £7.5 million is available across multiple stages, alongside tailored business and technical support to help innovators develop and commercialise their ideas.
Up to 20 finalists will be selected to progress to the next stage of the programme, each receiving up to £100,000 in seed funding and access to expert mentoring, industry insight and support to refine their innovation. From this group, up to 10 winners will be chosen and awarded up to £550,000 each, along with an extended support programme to accelerate development and route to market.
The challenge is open to UK-registered organisations from any sector, including start-ups, SMEs and other eligible bodies. Applications are assessed competitively on innovation, impact, feasibility and potential benefit to the UK water sector, with decisions communicated after evaluation.
Location: UK
Value: £100k - £550k
Grant Deadline: 08-04-2026