Submit Your Ideas for Novel, Transformative Research

(Denver, CO) 1/26/26 – The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is now accepting pre-proposals for innovative research projects to receive funding through our Unsolicited Research Program. This highly competitive program supports novel, transformative research that advances scientific understanding and delivers practical solutions to water quality challenges. The program runs every other year, with research spanning a wide range of One Water topics.

The proposal review process occurs in two phases. First, WRF’s Research Advisory Council (RAC) evaluates all submitted pre-proposals and selects a shortlist of applicants. Those selected are then invited to submit full proposals, which are reviewed and selected for funding by the RAC. For the 2026 cycle, total available funding is $1,893,095, with individual project awards ranging from $50,000 to $200,000.

“The Unsolicited Research Program offers proposers a unique opportunity to shape the direction of future research,” said Jeff Moeller, WRF Director of Research Services. “Historically, this program has supported projects that explore new research frontiers and deliver transformative outcomes for WRF subscribers and the broader water sector.”

Pre-proposals are evaluated on several criteria, including technical and scientific merit, originality, research approach, significance and value, as well as project schedule and team qualifications. Proposed research may complement WRF’s Research Priority Program, address regional or national water challenges, pilot novel technologies, and focus on drinking water, wastewater, water reuse, and/or stormwater systems.

Pre-proposals must be submitted by March 26, 2026, at 3:00 PM MT. Applicants will be notified of pre-proposal selections and invitations to submit full proposals by June 22, 2026.

Learn more about the Unsolicited Research Program and submission guidelines.

If you have any questions about the program, please contact Jeff Moeller, Director of Research Services, at jmoeller@waterrf.org or (571) 384-2104.